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Usage

Uses

Used in Pharmaceutical Industry:
Paraffin is used as a lubricant and laxative in the pharmaceutical industry. It helps to soften and lubricate the stool, making it easier to pass and relieving constipation.
Used in Cosmetic Industry:
Paraffin is used as an emollient and moisturizer in the cosmetic industry. It helps to soften and smooth the skin, providing a protective barrier against moisture loss.
Used in Food Industry:
Paraffin is used as a food additive and coating agent in the food industry. It helps to prevent the food from sticking to the packaging and provides a glossy appearance.
Used in Manufacturing Industry:
Paraffin is used as a lubricant and release agent in the manufacturing industry. It helps to reduce friction and wear between moving parts and provides a smooth surface for various applications.
Used in Candle Making:
Paraffin is used as a primary ingredient in candle making. It provides a clean and steady burn, making it ideal for creating long-lasting and high-quality candles.
Used in Medical Industry:
Paraffin is used as a barrier and protective agent in the medical industry. It helps to protect sensitive areas of the skin from irritation and infection.
Used in Rubber Industry:
Paraffin is used as a softening agent and plasticizer in the rubber industry. It helps to improve the flexibility and workability of rubber compounds.
Used in Adhesive Industry:
Paraffin is used as a tackifier and adhesive promoter in the adhesive industry. It helps to improve the bonding strength and durability of adhesive formulations.
Used in Textile Industry:
Paraffin is used as a water repellent and finishing agent in the textile industry. It helps to protect fabrics from water damage and provides a smooth and lustrous finish.
Used in Construction Industry:
Paraffin is used as a waterproofing agent and sealant in the construction industry. It helps to protect building materials from water damage and provides a durable and long-lasting seal.

Production Methods

Light mineral oil is obtained by the distillation of petroleum. A suitable stabilizer may be added to the oil.

Flammability and Explosibility

Nonflammable

Pharmaceutical Applications

Light mineral oil is used in applications similar to those of mineral oil.It is used primarily as an excipient in topical pharmaceutical formulations where its emollient properties are exploited in ointment bases. It is also used in ophthalmic formulations. Light mineral oil is additionally used in oil-inwater and polyethlylene glycol/glycerol emulsions; as a solvent and lubricant in capsules and tablets; as a solvent and penetration enhancer in transdermal preparations;and as the oily medium used in the microencapsulation of many drugs. Light mineral oil is also used in cosmetics and certain food products.

Safety

Light mineral oil is used in applications similar to those of mineral oil. Mineral oil is considered safe by the FDA for direct use in foods. However, oral ingestion of large doses of light mineral oil or chronic consumption may be harmful. Chronic use may impair appetite and interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. It is absorbed to some extent when emulsified, leading to granulomatous reactions. Oral and intranasal use of mineral oil or products containing mineral oil by infants or children is not recommended because of the possible danger of causing lipoid pneumonia. See Mineral Oil for further information.

storage

Light mineral oil undergoes oxidation when exposed to heat and light. Oxidation begins with the formation of peroxides, exhibiting an ‘induction period’. Under typical storage conditions, the induction period may take months or years. However, once a trace of peroxide is formed, further oxidation is autocatalytic and proceeds very rapidly. Oxidation results in the formation of aldehydes and organic acids, which impart taste and odor. The USP32–NF27 permits the addition of suitable stabilizers to retard oxidation, butylated hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxytoluene, and alpha tocopherol being the most commonly used antioxidants. Light mineral oil may be sterilized by dry heat. Light mineral oil should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place and protected from light.

Incompatibilities

Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.

Regulatory Status

GRAS listed. Accepted in the UK for use in certain food applications. Light mineral oil is included in the FDA Inactive Ingredients Database (ophthalmic preparations; oral capsules and tablets; otic, rectal, topical, and transdermal preparations). Included in nonparenteral medicines licensed in the UK. Included in the Canadian List of Acceptable Non-medicinal Ingredients.