In industrial applications, it is often useful to modify the crystal properties of the paraffin wax, typically by adding
branching to the existing carbon backbone chain. The modification is usually done with additives, such as
EVA copolymers,
microcrystalline wax, or forms of
polyethylene. The branched properties result in a modified paraffin with a higher viscosity, smaller crystalline structure, and modified functional properties. Pure paraffin wax is rarely used for carving original models for
casting metal and other materials in the
lost wax process, as it is relatively brittle at room temperature and presents the risks of chipping and breakage when worked. Soft and pliable waxes, like beeswax, may be preferred for such sculpture, but "
investment casting waxes", often paraffin-based, are expressly formulated for the purpose. In a histology or pathology laboratory, paraffin wax is used to impregnate tissue prior to sectioning thin samples. Water is removed from the tissue through ascending strengths of alcohol (75% to absolute), and then the alcohol is cleared in an organic solvent such as
xylene. The tissue is then placed in paraffin wax for several hours, then set in a mold with wax to cool and solidify. Sections are then cut on a
microtome.
Other uses laying in melted pure paraffin wax without additives, which has gained popularity as a bicycle chain
lubrication since around 2020 • Anti-caking agent, moisture repellent, and dustbinding coatings for
fertilizers •
Antiozonant agents: blends of paraffin and micro waxes are used in rubber compounds to prevent
cracking of the rubber; the admixture of wax migrates to the surface of the product and forms a protective layer. The layer can also act as a
release agent, helping the product separate from its
mould. •
Bicycle chain lubrication • Bullet lubricant – with other ingredients, such as olive oil and beeswax • Candle-making • Coatings for
waxed paper or
waxed cotton • Component of
surfboard wax,
ski wax, and
skateboard wax • Crayons • Food-grade paraffin wax: • Shiny coating used in
candy-making; although edible, it is nondigestible, passing through the body without being broken down • Coating for many kinds of hard
cheese, like
Edam cheese • Sealant for jars, cans, and bottles • Chewing gum additive •
Forensic investigations: the nitrate test uses paraffin wax to detect nitrates and nitrites on the hand of a shooting suspect • Fuel for
fire breathing •
Investment casting •
Lava lamps • Manufacture of
boiled leather armor and books • Mechanical
thermostats and
actuators, as an expansion medium for activating such devices • Microwax:
food additive, a
glazing agent with
E number E905 •
Moisturiser in
toiletries and
cosmetics such as
Vaseline. •
Neutron radiation shielding •
Phase change material for
thermal energy storage • Used by
MESSENGER (Mercury spacecraft), when the spacecraft was unable to radiate excessive heat. •
Phlegmatizing agent, commonly used to stabilise/desensitize
high explosives such as
RDX •
Potting material to encapsulate electronic components such as
guitar pickups,
transformers, and
inductors, to prevent moisture ingress and to reduce
electromagnetically induced acoustic noise and
microphonic effects • Prevents
oxidation on the surface of
polished steel and
iron • Solid
ink color blocks of wax for
thermal printers. The wax is melted and then sprayed on the paper producing images with a shiny surface • Solid propellant for
hybrid rocket motors • Textile manufacturing processes, such as that used for
Eisengarn thread • Thickening agent in many
paintballs • Wax baths for
occupational and
physical therapies and
cosmetic treatments •
Wax carving •
Wood finishing == Occupational safety ==