Comparing E905CI - Microcrystalline wax vs E909 - Spermaceti

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Overview

E905CI - Microcrystalline wax

Microcrystalline wax (E905ci) is a highly refined wax made from petroleum. In food, it works mostly as a glazing and anti-sticking agent, giving a shiny finish and helping foods keep their texture. You’ll see it used in small amounts on the surface of candies and in chewing gum base.

E909 - Spermaceti

Spermaceti (E909) is a wax from the head oil of the sperm whale. It was once used to give candies and pills a smooth, glossy finish, but today it has been largely replaced by plant, insect, or mineral waxes because whale products are protected and alternatives work well.

Synonyms

E905ci

Microcrystalline wax

E909

Spermaceti

Functions

glazing agent

Origins

Mineral

Animal

Products

Found in 23 products

Found in 0 products

Search rank & volume

#2631.5K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

#2561.6K / mo🇺🇸U.S.

Awareness score

×8.01

over-aware

Awareness data is not available.

Search volume over time

Interest over time for 2 keywords in U.S. during the last 10 years.

Popular questions

What is microcrystalline wax made of?
A mineral wax refined from petroleum residuals (de-oiled petrolatum), composed mainly of high–molecular-weight saturated hydrocarbons with branched and cyclic structures.
1 pound of microcrystalline wax weighs how much in everdur bronze?
For the same volume, Everdur bronze (≈8.3–8.7 g/cm³) is about 9–10× denser than microcrystalline wax (≈0.90–0.95 g/cm³), so 1 lb of wax volume would weigh roughly 9–10 lb if cast in Everdur.
At what temperature does microcrystalline wax melt?
Typically about 60–90°C (140–194°F), depending on the grade; some hard grades approach ~95°C (203°F).
How to determine the crystallinity of microcrystalline wax?
Use differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to estimate crystalline fraction from melting enthalpy and X‑ray diffraction (XRD/WAXS) to quantify crystalline versus amorphous phases; FTIR can provide supportive qualitative insight.
How to make dark microcrystalline paste wax?
Melt microcrystalline wax (optionally with 10–20% carnauba for hardness), then blend in odorless mineral spirits or turpentine to a paste consistency and disperse a small amount of carbon black or iron oxide pigment for color; mix thoroughly and cool, observing strict solvent fire-safety.