Paraffin Waxes: What is Truth and What isFiction

摘要

The candle industry accounts for the one of largest uses of refined wax in the UnitedrnStates with petroleum-base paraffin wax being the preferred raw material for candlernmaking. Paraffin wax is a safe, natural product that is so highly refined that it compliesrnwith FDA requirements for use in foods, yet it has been attacked as “unsafe” for thisrnapplication on a number of small internet sites. The National Candle Association statesrnthat all types of candle wax will burn cleanly when formulated and used properly. Thernproperties of the wax, the shape of the candle, the wick characteristics, and air flowrnaround the candle all have to be balanced to achieve a properly burning candle withrnminimal emissions.rnAlthough there are conflicting data, the majority of the fact-based studies on candlesrnreport that the correct use of paraffin wax in candles has minimal safety and toxicityrnconcerns. This paper will review the current status of candle safety, toxicity, andrnemission information. Health and environmental claims made by alternate wax productsrnwill be evaluated.