Polypropylene Wax
(CH₂CHCH₃)ₙ | CAS: 9003-07-0 | HS: 34042000
Product Description
Polypropylene Wax (PP Wax) is a low molecular weight homopolymer or copolymer of propylene produced by controlled polymerisation or thermal degradation of polypropylene. Compared to polyethylene wax, PP wax has a higher melting point (140–165°C vs 100–130°C), greater hardness, and superior scratch resistance, making it the preferred processing lubricant and surface modifier for demanding applications. In PVC and polyolefin compounding, it functions as an external lubricant that prevents melt adhesion to metal surfaces during extrusion. In pigment masterbatch manufacture, it acts as a carrier resin and dispersant for pigment concentrates. Oxidised PP wax grades, with carboxyl and hydroxyl groups introduced, provide improved compatibility with polar substrates including metals, coatings, and polymer blends. MITCHEM supplies standard and oxidised grades in pellet and micropowder forms.
Applications by Industry
External lubricant in rigid PVC and polyolefin extrusion and injection moulding; prevents polymer melt adhesion to barrel and die surfaces, reducing torque and improving throughput.
Low-viscosity carrier resin and dispersant in colour masterbatches for PP and PE; the high-temperature stability (vs PE wax) makes it suitable for engineering plastic pigment concentrates.
Viscosity modifier and hardness enhancer in hot-melt adhesives; raises open time, improves set speed, and increases adhesive hardness and heat resistance versus paraffin wax modification.
Oxidised micropowder grades improve scratch resistance, slip, and anti-blocking in printing inks and industrial coatings; compatible with offset, flexo, and gravure ink systems.