Semi refined paraffin wax is a petroleum-derived by-product produced during crude oil refining. It is a white solid, typically molded into slabs of about 5 kg, and is the most widely used wax for candle manufacturing.
This semi-refined paraffin wax is a petroleum-based hydrocarbon blend that is only partially purified rather than fully refined. As a result, it offers a practical balance between performance and cost for large-scale manufacturing.
Oil Content: Typically 3%–5%, and in some cases up to 5%–7%. This is higher than fully refined wax, which usually contains less than 0.5% oil.
Melting Point: Usually between 58°C and 60°C, depending on climate and performance requirements.
Physical Appearance: A hard white to slightly off-white crystalline solid at room temperature, typically supplied in slab form.
Solubility: Insoluble in water and alcohol, but readily soluble in organic solvents such as ether and benzene.
Color: White (<1.0)
Primary Uses and Applications
Candle Manufacturing
This is the most common use of semi-refined paraffin wax. Its 3%–5% oil content supports strong fragrance retention and good color dispersion. It is widely used in household, decorative, and container candles because it helps minimize shrinkage, reduces surface cracking during cooling, and promotes an even burn.
Rubber and Tire Industry
In the rubber and tire industry, it is used as a processing aid and softener. It rises to the surface of rubber products to form a protective film that helps resist ozone damage, weathering, and cracking.
Packaging and Paper Coatings
For packaging and paper coatings, it is applied as a waterproof barrier on cardboard, wax paper, and food wrappers. This coating helps keep goods dry during transport and can extend shelf life.
Polishes and Anti-Corrosion Products
It is also used in polishes and anti-corrosion products, including shoe, floor, and car polishes, where it adds gloss and surface protection. In industrial formulations, it helps protect metal parts from moisture and air exposure.
Industrial Lubricants and PVC Processing
In industrial lubricants and PVC processing, it functions as an external lubricant in extrusion and plastic molding. It improves material flow through machinery and also serves as a release agent.
Cosmetics and Pharmaceuticals
In cosmetics and pharmaceutical products, it is used as a texturizer, thickener, and moisture barrier in items such as lotions, barrier creams, lip balms, and medicated ointments.
Match and Stationery Industries
In the match and stationery industries, it is added to wooden matchsticks as a readily vaporized fuel that helps ignition and supports a smoother burn. It is also used as a binder in the production of crayons, pencils, and carbon paper.
Tips for Using Paraffin Wax
- Melt paraffin wax slowly using indirect heat to reduce the risk of overheating and discoloration.
- Use a thermometer to monitor temperature and pour within the recommended range for the wax type and candle application.
- Test fragrance load and dye concentration in small batches before full production to optimize burn quality and appearance.
- Select the correct wick size based on candle diameter, wax blend, fragrance load, and container type.
- Allow candles to cool gradually and cure properly before burning to improve surface finish, scent throw, and performance.
- Store wax in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, dust, and strong odors.
Pieter (verified owner) –
Pieter (verified owner) –
claire (verified owner) –
No disappointments.
Pieter Henn (verified owner) –
Pieter Henn (verified owner) –
Mimi Kerby (verified owner) –
Mimi Kerby (verified owner) –
Nomonde Radebe (verified owner) –
Nomonde Radebe (verified owner) –
Tshegofatso M. (verified owner) –
Refined wax was packaged well and great quality for making candles for my clients. Thank you 🤗🤗
Christa (verified owner) –
Christa (verified owner) –
Morne Delport (verified owner) –
Has a bad odor and cannot use for scented candles. Complete waste of money.
Thabang Elizabeth Makhubedu (verified owner) –
I used the wax to make candles. The candles burned fast and the wax made a mess.
Zandi Loubser (verified owner) –
Excellent product. My 3rd time i bought it and will absolutely buy again.
Ettienne Deyzel (verified owner) –
Ettienne Deyzel (verified owner) –
Zandi Loubser (verified owner) –
This is an excellent product. My candles come out perfectly everytime. Even if i make sented candles
Zandi Loubser (verified owner) –
This is the best wax i have ever used. Will buy no where else
Leon (verified owner) –
name is Deon 🙂
Lehlohonolo Kgobe –
Lehlohonolo Kgobe (verified owner) –
Lehlohonolo Kgobe (verified owner) –
Good quality product
Lena Spoelstra (verified owner) –
Lena Spoelstra (verified owner) –
Dean D. (verified owner) –
Exactly what we wanted
Adriaan Bezuidenhout (verified owner) –
Adriaan Bezuidenhout (verified owner) –
Lehlohonolo K. (verified owner) –
Lehlohonolo K. (verified owner) –
Mosotho Lucas Matsubane (verified owner) –
Highly appreciate
Lehlohonolo K. (verified owner) –
Lehlohonolo K. (verified owner) –
Gift K. (verified owner) –
I have not used the wax but this is my second purchase and I have no doubt that it will work just as the first one I bought when I first started my candle business.
Izel Kriek (verified owner) –
CIndy Muller (verified owner) –
Horrible product. Doesn’t matter how much fragrance you add, the smell stays revolting. I can’t use it at all in my candle making. I have bought semi refined blocks elsewhere in the past and never experienced this awful smell. It is overwhelming. And the oily texture! I have never came across a product this bad. Trying to return or exchange it.
waxmin (store manager) –
Dear Cindy.We apologise for the defective product.We aim for high quality service and products. Your complaint has been referred to the supplier and details for a full refund or exchange has been forwarded to you.We hope this resolves your dissatisfaction.
Theresa Bradford (verified owner) –