View source for Lac wax

== Description ==

A solid fatty acid ester compound obtained from [[shellac]] resin. Shellac contains approximately 3-6% wax and is separated as a byproduct during shellac processing. Lac wax primarily contains myricyl and ceryl alcohols with a small proportion of heavier alcohols and some hydrocarbons ranging from C42 to C68. As early as the 17th century lac wac was imported to Europe and used as a sealing wax. The hard, golden-color wax is no longer commonly used. In shellac varnishes, the incomplete removeal of lac wax can produce a hazy appearance.

== Synonyms and Related Terms ==

cera de laca (Esp.); shellac wax; lacwax

== Risks ==

* Combustible.
== Physical and Chemical Properties ==

* Iodine value=6.0-8.8
* Acid value=12.1-24.3
* Saponification value = 63.8-83.0
* Melting Point = 78-82 C
* Density = 0.971-0.980 g/ml

== Resources and Citations ==

* R. J. Gettens, G.L. Stout, ''Painting Materials, A Short Encyclopaedia'', Dover Publications, New York, 1966

* Thomas Gregory, ''The Condensed Chemical Dictionary'', Reinhold Publishing, New York, 3rd ed., 1942

* John S. Mills, Raymond White, ''The Organic Chemistry of Museum Objects'', Butterworth Heineman, London, 2nd ed., 1994

* ''Encyclopedia Britannica'', http://www.britannica.com  Comment: "lac" [Accessed February 6, 2003]. gives 17th c. for first use in Europe

* ''CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics'', Robert Weast (ed.), CRC Press, Boca Raton, Florida, v. 61, 1980  Comment: melting point = 79-82; density=0.971-0.980; iodine value=6.0-8.8, acid value=12.1-24.3; saponification value = 63.8-83.0



[[Category:Materials database]]