Paraffin wax is a mixture of linear alkanes (C20–C40) derived from the purification of slack wax in oil refineries. Its high n-paraffin content provides suitable crystallinity and a stable melting point, which not only ensures effective lubrication in PVC processing but also imparts moisture resistance and improved surface gloss to finished products. In rigid PVC formulations, paraffin wax reduces friction between the melt and metal surfaces and directly influences the fusion profile; when used at optimized dosage, it prevents delayed gelation and avoids processing issues such as plate-out. Owing to its layered structure, it can also limit the migration of certain metallic stabilizers to the surface, resulting in enhanced color uniformity and surface quality.
In masterbatch production, paraffin wax acts as a carrier for pigments and additives, promoting uniform dispersion and better compatibility with the polymer matrix. Furthermore, its ability to improve the processability of recycled PVC and reduce the release of volatile compounds adds to its value, creating specialized applications that extend beyond conventional lubrication