Description
A solid or semi-solid substance that is slightly greasy to touch. Waxes are composed of long chain hydrocarbon compounds, and may contain esters of fatty acids and alcohols. They are thermoplastic and melt at low temperatures (between 40 and 100C). In general, waxes are water-repellent, smooth, and soluble in organic solvents. Waxes are classified by their origin:
- animal: beeswax, lanolin, spermaceti, lac wax
- vegetable: carnauba, candelilla, bayberry, Japan wax
- mineral: paraffin, ozocerite, ceresin, montan
- synthetic: polyethylene, polymethylene, Carbowax®, Halowax®
Waxes are used for polishes, candles, crayons, sealants, coatings, adhesives, waterproofing, and carbon paper. Waxes have been used as a media in encaustic and wax emulsion paintings, and as repellents in wax-resist watercolor paintings.
Synonyms and Related Terms
voks (Dan.); Wachs (Deut.); cera (Esp., It.); cire (Fr.); wosk (Pol.); vax (Sven.)
Types include: animal wax; synthetic wax, mineral wax; vegetable wax
Other Properties
Soluble in most organic solvents. Insoluble in water.
Additional Information
C.Harley, "Wax" The Dictionary of Art, Grove's Dictionaries Inc., New York, 1996.
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Last updated on: 1/4/2010 8:07:47 AM
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