Specific weight of paraffin, properties, uses and value table
Paraffin is a mixture of solid saturated hydrocarbons obtained mainly from petroleum and products of oil shale processing. Paraffin substances may also occur in some resins, tars and natural waxes.
Depending on composition and the ratio of light and heavy hydrocarbons, paraffin can be hard, soft, liquid or microcrystalline. Its properties depend on grade, degree of purification and oil content.
Table of paraffin specific weight
The weight of paraffin depends on its density and composition. For approximate calculations, an average specific weight of about 0.87 g/cm3 is often used. This means that 1 m3 of paraffin weighs about 870 kg.
| Material | Specific weight (g/cm3) | Weight of 1 m3 (kg) |
| Paraffin | 0.87 | 870 |
Properties of paraffin
Paraffin is usually a white or slightly translucent wax-like substance. In molten form it has relatively low viscosity. The material is chemically inert to many reagents and poorly soluble in water.
The melting point of paraffin is usually in the range of about 45 to 65 °C, but the exact value depends on grade and composition. Oxidized paraffin products can be used in the production of detergents, lubricants, cosmetic and technical compositions.
By purpose and degree of purification, paraffins are divided into several groups:
- highly purified food and medical grades;
- highly purified technical grades for non-food production;
- refined technical paraffins;
- special paraffins, including match-grade materials and compositions with increased oil content.
Applications of paraffin
Paraffin is used in many areas of production and everyday life. Main applications include:
- production of candles and matches;
- manufacture of lubricants and protective compositions;
- use in cosmetics and petroleum jelly production;
- use in paraffin therapy and medical procedures;
- production of packaging, impregnating and waterproofing compositions;
- use in ski and snowboard waxes;
- use in laboratory practice and selected technical processes.
When working with molten paraffin, fire hazard and temperature control must be considered, because overheating can lead to ignition of vapors and the material.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the density of paraffin be used for precise calculations?
The density and weight values for paraffin in this article are reference values. They are suitable for preliminary estimates, but design, construction, production and other critical calculations should be checked against standards, material datasheets or measurement results.
Why can the actual weight of paraffin differ from the table?
The actual weight of paraffin depends on composition, moisture, temperature, porosity, fraction size, material grade and measurement conditions. Because of this, real values may differ from the average table data.
How do you calculate the mass of paraffin from density?
For an approximate calculation, use the formula: mass = density × volume. If the density of paraffin is given in kg/m³ and the volume is in m³, the result will be in kilograms.