What is oxidized polyethylene wax and what are the uses of oxidized polyethylene wax?

Oxidized polyethylene wax (OPE wax) is a type of modified wax product that possesses polarity due to the presence of polar functional groups. It is derived from polyethylene wax through a specific oxidation process. Here are the key points regarding OPE wax and its uses:

Properties of Oxidized Polyethylene Wax (OPE Wax):

• It has a low viscosity, high softening point, and good hardness.

• It is non-toxic, thermally stable, and has low volatility at high temperatures.

• It exhibits excellent dispersibility for fillers and pigments.

• It has both superior external and internal lubricating properties, as well as a coupling effect.

• It is compatible with polyolefin resins and other polar resins.

Uses of Oxidized Polyethylene Wax (OPE Wax):

1. PVC Processing: OPE wax is an effective lubricant for PVC processing, especially for transparent PVC products, PVC foam products, thick PVC products, thin PVC products, PVC products requiring high production speeds, PVC products requiring surface gloss, PVC products with complex cross-sections, and PVC products with high filler content. It can improve the plasticization, metal stripping, and surface gloss of PVC products.

2. Coatings and Inks: It is widely used in water-based coatings and ink formulations to provide excellent abrasion resistance, anti-blocking, and scratch resistance.

3. Textile Industry: It can be used as a textile softener.

4. Leather Industry: It is suitable for leather softeners and coatings.

5. Other Applications: It can also be used as a dispersant in color masterbatch processing, an auxiliary material for asphalt modification and waterproof rolls, an oscillation aid for road marking paint, a viscosity modifier for hot-melt adhesives, and a processing aid for floor waxes and other products.

In summary, oxidized polyethylene wax is a versatile additive that finds applications in various industries due to its unique properties and functionalities.