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1. What is Polyethylene Wax?

 A: Polyethylene wax is a low molecular weight polyethylene polymer that because of it’s low molecular weight has wax like physical characteristics.

2. How are polyethylene waxes made?

 A:There are a variety of methods for producing Polyethylene wax. Polyethylene wax can be made by direct polymerization of ethylene under special conditions that control molecular weight. Another method involves breaking down high molecular weight polyethylene into lower molecular weight fractions. A third method involves separation of the low molecular weight fraction from high molecular weight polymer.

3. What differentiates one type of polyethylene wax from another?

 A: There are three major characteristics that differentiate one polyethylene wax from another. They are I) Molecular weight, II) Degree and length of polymer branching, III) Monomer / polymer composition. Changing any of these factors will alter the physical characteristics of the polyethylene wax, such as viscosity, hardness, melt point, reactivity etc.

4. How does polyethylene wax differ from paraffin and other waxes?

 Paraffin wax is usually produced as a by-product of oil refining. It has a molecular weight which is usually less than half that of most polyethylene waxes. Because of this and other differences, paraffin wax usually has a much lower melt point and is softer than most polyethylene waxes.

5. How are polyethylene waxes supplied?

 Polyethylene waxes can be supplied in many forms. The can be supplied in bulk with the use of specialty bulk trailers that are heated. Polyethylene wax can be finished as a prill, or atomized powder. Polyethylene waxes can also be ground into various particle sizes. Harder waxes are usually easier and less costly to grind than are softer waxes.

6. Why are Polyethylene waxes used in so many applications?

Polyethylene waxes have very unique polymer properties that make them useful in many applications. The major functions of  polyethylene wax in many formulations are to either provide lubrication and/or provide physical modification of a formula by changing viscosity and / or melt point.
 
 
 

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