Wax Coated Paper & Boards

Wax-coated papers and boards are treated with a layer of wax to create a barrier against moisture, grease, and other contaminants. Their specific properties vary depending on the base material, the type of wax used, and the coating method.

Key specifications
Base material
The properties of the final product are influenced by the base paper or board used, with common options including:
Kraft paper: Known for its high strength and durability, it is often used for industrial packaging and heavy-duty applications where puncture resistance is important.
Tissue paper: A thinner and lighter option used for applications like food wrapping for baked goods and confectionery.
Paperboard: A thicker, more rigid material used for packaging and containers that require structural integrity.
Wax type
The type of wax determines the product's performance characteristics, such as its melting point and flexibility.
Paraffin wax: A cost-effective, petroleum-derived wax that offers good moisture and grease resistance. It's suitable for general food packaging but melts at higher temperatures.
Microcrystalline wax: A broader, more flexible wax that offers enhanced adhesion, heat resistance, and pliability compared to paraffin wax. It is often blended with other waxes to improve performance.
Natural waxes: Environmentally-friendly, plant-based waxes that are compostable and biodegradable. Options include:
Beeswax: A natural wax that provides good stiffness and moisture resistance, often used for premium food wraps and packaging.
Soy wax: A renewable, non-toxic, and biodegradable option suitable for sustainable food packaging.
Carnauba wax: A high-gloss, durable, and water-resistant wax derived from carnauba palm leaves. It is ideal for high-end food wrapping.
Coating method
The application method affects the finished product's properties, particularly its barrier performance.
Surface-coated (dry waxed): A thin layer of wax is applied to one or both surfaces. This makes the paper water-repellent but not fully waterproof.
Impregnated (wet waxed): The paper fibers are saturated with wax, resulting in a more robust and waterproof product.
Performance characteristics
Moisture resistance: Wax coatings significantly decrease the paper's ability to absorb water. Standard tests show that wax-coated papers can absorb as little as 1.35 g/m of water compared to 23 g/m for regular kraft paper. Impregnated papers offer superior moisture protection compared to surface-coated types.

Grease resistance: The wax layer prevents oil from soaking through the paper, making it ideal for packaging greasy foods like burgers and baked goods.
Non-stick properties: Waxed paper offers a non-stick surface, which is useful for food preparation and preventing items like candy or baked goods from sticking to their packaging.