Chemical Composition
Surface additives consisting of natural wax particles suspended in an aqueous carrier provide slip and mar resistance to paper coatings. A carnauba wax dispersion utilizes the high melting point and hardness of the palm-derived wax to improve the durability of the finished surface. The particle size is carefully controlled to ensure a uniform distribution.
Coating Functionality
Hard wax layers reduce the coefficient of friction and prevent the ink from scuffing during transport and handling. When a carnauba wax dispersion is added to an overprint varnish, it creates a smooth finish that allows sheets to slide easily against each other. This property is necessary for high-speed mail sorting and automated packaging lines.
Industrial Application
Liquid formulations are mixed directly into aqueous coating systems or applied as a top layer during the finishing stage. Because the wax is natural, it is often preferred for applications involving indirect food contact. The dosage must be balanced to avoid interfering with the heat-sealing properties of the board.
If the concentration is too high, the surface may become too slippery for safe pallet stacking. It also helps to prevent the blocking of stacked sheets in warm conditions. Proper dispersion prevents the wax from settling out of the liquid during storage.