paraffine

Paraffine, also spelled paraffin in many contexts, refers to a family of saturated hydrocarbons derived from petroleum or, less commonly, from shale or coal. The term is used to describe both solid waxes and liquid hydrocarbons. In everyday usage paraffine often denotes paraffin wax, the solid material used in candles and cosmetics, while paraffin oil (or liquid paraffin) denotes a colorless, viscous liquid used as a lubricant and laxative. The word is used variably in different countries and industries.

Paraffin wax is a mixture of high-molecular-weight alkanes, typically with carbon chains in the longer range. It is solid at room temperature and has a melting point that varies with the exact composition, commonly in the region of 46 to 68 degrees Celsius. Liquid paraffin comprises lighter alkanes and remains fluid at room temperature. Both forms are refined from crude oil through distillation and further processing, including purification, bleaching, and sometimes dewaxing to adjust hardness and color.

Uses are diverse. Paraffin wax is widely consumed in candle making, coatings, and insulation applications, and it serves as a base in cosmetics such as paraffin baths and skin moisturizers. Liquid paraffin is used as a lubricant, a solvent, a heat transfer fluid, and, historically, as a laxative and medicinal carrier. In industry, paraffinic hydrocarbons appear in electrical insulation, sealants, and protective coatings.

Safety and environmental considerations are generally favorable at typical use temperatures, but heated vapors can irritate the respiratory tract. Ingestion of large amounts of liquid paraffin is hazardous. Being petroleum-derived, paraffines are persistent in the environment and require appropriate handling and disposal.