Sasol Wax - Using it for Candle Making

Understanding Sasolwax for Candles

Sasolwax is a synthetic wax derived from the Fischer-Tropsch process, known for its purity and uniform composition. The two products highlighted here—Sasolwax M3B and Sasolwax Fischer-Tropsch Medium Waxes—are particularly suitable for candle making due to their favorable physical and chemical properties.

Sasolwax M3B: Key Properties

Sasolwax M3B is a medium wax designed for various industrial applications, including candles. Its product data sheet provides the following specifications:
Congealing Point: 58–64°C (typical: 62°C)

Penetration at 25°C: 17–23 (0.1 mm) (typical: 20)

Oil Content: ≤4.2 mass % (typical: 3.8%)

Colour: ≥+17 Saybolt (typical: +27)

Appearance: Clear at 90°C

Water Crackle Test: Passes splutter test

Centrifuge Test: Free from foreign material

These properties make Sasolwax M3B an excellent choice for candle making. The congealing point of 62°C ensures a stable melting behavior, ideal for creating candles that burn evenly. The low oil content (3.8%) contributes to a clean burn with minimal soot, while the high Saybolt colour value (+27) indicates a bright, aesthetically pleasing wax that can be easily dyed. Its clarity at 90°C and freedom from foreign materials ensure a smooth, professional finish.

Sasolwax Fischer-Tropsch Medium Waxes: General Characteristics

The Fischer-Tropsch Medium Waxes, including M3B and other grades like M3C, M3F, and M5, are synthetic paraffin waxes with a broad range of applications. The safety data sheet provides the following physical and chemical properties:
Form: Coarse powder or solid

Melting Point Range: 45–75°C

Boiling Point: >200°C

Flash Point: >200°C

Density: 0.9 g/cm³ at 25°C

Water Solubility: Insoluble

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions

Composition: 100% paraffinic hydrocarbons (CAS No. 8002-74-2)

These waxes are not classified as hazardous under GHS, making them safe for handling in candle-making processes when proper precautions are followed. The wide melting point range (45–75°C) allows for flexibility in formulating candles with different textures and burn characteristics. The high flash point (>200°C) ensures safety during melting and pouring, reducing the risk of ignition.

Why Choose Sasolwax for Candle Making?

Sasolwax offers several advantages for candle makers:
Consistency and Purity: The synthetic nature of Fischer-Tropsch waxes ensures uniform quality, free from impurities that can affect burn performance. The centrifuge test for M3B confirms it is free from foreign materials, ensuring a clean product.

Clean Burning: The low oil content of Sasolwax M3B (≤4.2%) minimizes soot and smoke, producing candles that burn cleanly and safely indoors.

Aesthetic Versatility: The high Saybolt colour value of M3B (+27) allows for vibrant dyeing, making it ideal for decorative candles. The wax’s clarity at 90°C ensures a smooth, glossy finish.

Ease of Handling: Sasolwax M3B is available in liquid, pastilles, powder, or slabs, offering flexibility in processing. The Fischer-Tropsch Medium Waxes’ coarse powder or solid form is easy to measure and melt.

Safety: The safety data sheet confirms that these waxes are non-hazardous under GHS, with no known ecotoxicological effects. Acute toxicity tests (LD50 > 2,000 mg/kg for oral and dermal exposure) and lack of eye irritation further ensure safe handling.

Practical Tips for Using Sasolwax in Candle Making

To create high-quality candles with Sasolwax, consider the following steps and precautions based on the provided data:

1. Melting and Preparation

Melting Temperature: Heat Sasolwax M3B to around 90°C, where it becomes clear and fluid, as per its appearance specification. Avoid exceeding 200°C to prevent degradation, given the boiling point of Fischer-Tropsch waxes (>200°C).

Equipment: Use a double boiler or a dedicated wax melter to maintain consistent temperatures. Ensure sufficient ventilation, as recommended in the safety data sheet for handling Fischer-Tropsch waxes.

Additives: Sasolwax M3B’s low oil content and high purity make it compatible with fragrances and dyes. Add fragrance oils at around 80–85°C to preserve scent integrity, and use dyes sparingly to maintain the wax’s clarity.

2. Wick Selection and Pouring

Wick Compatibility: Choose a wick size suited for the candle’s diameter and the wax’s melting point (58–64°C for M3B). A medium wax like M3B typically requires a cotton or blended wick for optimal burn.

Pouring Temperature: Pour the wax at 70–80°C to achieve a smooth surface and minimize shrinkage. The wax’s penetration value (20 at 25°C) indicates a relatively soft texture, so cooling slowly can prevent cracking.

Mold or Container: Use heat-resistant molds or containers, as the wax will solidify at around 62°C. Ensure the mold is clean, as the centrifuge test confirms M3B is free from contaminants.

3. Safety and Storage

Handling Precautions: Follow the safety data sheet’s advice for Fischer-Tropsch waxes. If molten wax contacts skin, cool it with water and seek medical attention for burns. Avoid inhalation of vapors by working in a well-ventilated area.

Storage: Store Sasolwax M3B in its original packaging (20 kg polyethylene bags or 25 kg slabs) in a dry, cool place below 35°C, as recommended. Use within 5 years from the sample date for optimal performance.

Fire Safety: Keep the wax away from open flames and oxidizing agents, as noted in the safety data sheet. Use foam or dry powder extinguishers in case of fire, avoiding water spray.

4. Finishing and Testing

Curing: Allow candles to cure for 24–48 hours to stabilize the wax’s structure, given its congealing point of 62°C.

Testing: Test burn the candle to ensure an even melt pool and minimal soot, leveraging M3B’s low oil content for a clean burn.

Packaging: Package candles in materials that protect against temperatures above 35°C to maintain their shape and quality.

Conclusion

Sasolwax, particularly Sasolwax M3B and Fischer-Tropsch Medium Waxes, is an excellent choice for candle making due to its purity, clean-burning properties, and aesthetic versatility. The technical specifications of M3B—low oil content, high Saybolt colour, and stable congealing point—ensure candles that are both functional and visually appealing. The safety profile of Fischer-Tropsch waxes, combined with practical handling and storage guidelines, makes them accessible for both hobbyists and professional candle makers. By following the recommended techniques and precautions, you can craft high-quality candles that enhance any space with light and ambiance.
For further details on Sasolwax products, contact Sasol Chemicals at +27 103 445 000 or visit their official website.