Charles Steinmetz (csteinmetz@redneck.efga.org)
Sat, 17 Jul 1999 04:20:53 +0000
Paraffin or paraffin wax: a hydrocarbon mixture having the physical
properties of a wax [i.e., similar in consistency to beeswax], obtained
from the distillate from the fuel-oil fraction of petroleum by chilling and
filtering. There are a number of grades, melting from 105-145 degrees F.
[Candles are often made of this material, often with the addition of
stearates; paraffin is also the material with which US kitchen "wax paper"
is impregnated.]
Paraffin oil: a fraction distilled from the fuel oil fraction of petroleum
after the wax has been separated by cooling and filtration. The yellow or
brown oil is treated with sulfuric acid and adsorbent earth to give a
light-colored oil relatively free from impurities. Used as a leather
dressing, floor treatment, "etc.," or, if further refined, as a lubricant.
White mineral oil, white oil, or liquid paraffin: obtained from the
fraction of petroleum distilling at 626-734 degrees F, then purified by
treatment with acid, alkali, and activated carbon. Used mainly as a
laxative, and for other miscellaneous purposes.
Source for the above: Snell and Snell, _Chemicals of Commerce_ (1939).
Paraffin: Paraffin wax, hard paraffin. A mixture of solid hydrocarbons
obtained from petroleum. Colorless or white, somewhat translucent,
odorless mass; greasy feel. Used to raise the melting point of ointments,
making wax paper and candles, waterproofing wood, cork, etc. vessels, and
as a lubricant.
Petrolatum, Liquid: liquid paraffin, white mineral or paraffin oil;
Alboline, Nujol, Paroleine, Saxol, Adepsine oil, Glymol. Used as a
laxative.
Source for the above: Merck Index 6th ed. (1952).
I was going to post entries for benzene and benzine (or benzin), but Peter
already provided the information. Benzene, petroleum ether, and carbon
tetrachloride all dissolve paraffin wax. Long ago, the easier way to wax
paper negatives was to use such solutions rather than melting the paraffin.
Beeswax dissolved in turpentine also works.
Best regards,
Charles
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