Carnauba Wax

CARNAUBA WAX

Synonym

Brazil wax.

Biological Source

It is an exudates from pores of the leaves of the Brazilian wax-palm tree Copernicia prunifera and C. cerifera, belonging to family Palmae.

Geographical Source

Brazilian wax trees are found in North Brazil to Argentina in South America.

Preparation

The leaves of Brazilian wax-palm are collected, dried, and then spread on cloth. By brushing and beating, the wax is separated. It is then melted, processed further to purify, and poured into the moulds.

Characteristics

It is hard greenish solid wax with crystalline fracture. It has sharp characteristic odour and bland taste. It is soluble in fat solvents.

Chemical Constituents

It contains esters of hydroxylated fatty acids, that is, carnaubic and cerotic acid and melissyl cerotate.

Uses

Carnauba wax is used for preparation of cosmetic products, depilatories, and deodorant sticks. It is also used for tablet coating. High-quality shoe polishes and automobile waxes are other products made from carnauba wax.