Paraffin wax, also commonly called ‘paraffin’, is a colourless or white, tasteless, odourless,
translucent waxy solid. Paraffin wax has a typical melting point between about 46°C and
68°C. Pure paraffin wax is a combustible substance and insoluble in water but soluble in
petroleum solvents and stable under normal conditions of use. Paraffin has been identified
as an excellent electrical insulator. It is also used in the manufacturing of paraffin papers,
candles, food packaging materials, varnishes, floor polishes, to extract perfumes from
flowers, in lubricants, and cosmetics. It is also used in water-proofing wood, and cork.
