Candle wax

Abstract

The present invention relates to a candle wax composition comprising one or more lauric fats and a plant-based oil and / or a plant-based wax. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a method for producing a candle wax composition, and the use of such a candle wax composition for reducing blooming formation and improving adhesion of a candle wax composition to glass.

Description

Invention Field

[0001] This invention relates to a candle wax composition comprising one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils and / or vegetable-based waxes. Furthermore, this invention relates to a method for producing a candle wax composition, and the use of such a candle wax composition for reducing frosting and improving the adhesion of the candle wax composition to glass.

[0002] background

[0003] Since early civilizations, candles have been used as a tool for providing light. Traditionally, candles were made from butter and beeswax; however, after the Industrial Revolution, candles were increasingly made from paraffin wax—a byproduct of gasoline production—because it was cheaper and more readily available. However, in recent years, growing concerns about the environmental impact of non-renewable fossil fuels have prompted research into alternative materials for candle making.

[0004] One possible solution is to return to using more traditional materials, such as beeswax; however, these materials are less economically viable for producers. Furthermore, beeswax, for example, is generally considered to offer inferior combustion performance compared to paraffin wax, so consumers may be less willing to use more traditional materials.

[0005] A candle made from renewable, environmentally friendly materials that offers similar burning performance to paraffin wax would be ideal. Unfortunately, previous attempts to formulate candle wax compositions using plant-based oils have largely failed, as the final products often exhibit unacceptable defects. These defects include internal cracking of the molded candle, air bubble formation, product shrinkage, unsatisfactory frosting / blooming due to triglyceride and fatty acid crystallization, poor container adhesion, poor burning performance, and / or short shelf life.

[0006] Saturated triglycerides found in renewable, vegetable-based oils or waxes differ fundamentally from the inherent properties of straight-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons found in paraffin wax. Triglycerides exhibit polymorphic behavior, and therefore, upon rapid cooling, initially form less stable, lower molecular density crystals with lower melting points. Through heating and cooling cycles, these crystals can rearrange into more stable polymorphic structures. This rearrangement of polymorphic structures leads to the formation of cracks and frost / frosting within the candle body. The presence of such defects increases the scrap rate during production, thereby reducing overall value and increasing costs for manufacturers. Therefore, numerous attempts have been made to overcome these problems.

[0007] For example, EP 2,845,895 discloses a candle made from a fatty acid wax composition, the composition comprising a crystallization inhibitor additive. Specifically, the additive is selected from formula R 1 -CH=CR3 R 4 At least one homopolymer of a monomer of formula (X), or at least one copolymer of a monomer of formula (X), its stereoisomers, and mixtures thereof. R 1 Selected from hydrogen, -C(=O)-OR 5 and -CH2-C(=O)-OR 5 R 3 Selected from hydrogen, -CH3, -C(=O)-OR 5 and -CH2-C(=O)-OR 5 R 4 Selected from -C(=O)-OR 5 -OC(=O)-R 5 and -CH2-C(=O)-OR 5 And R 5 It is C 12-22 Alkyl groups. While using crystallization inhibitors can reduce or prevent frosting, including such additives increases the time and cost of producing plant-based candle waxes.

[0008] US 6,599,344 discloses an alternative plant-based candle wax comprising primarily the following: at least 85% partially hydrogenated soybean oil having an iodine value between 49 and 53 and a melting point between 122 and 128 degrees Fahrenheit (50 to 53.3°C); 0 to 4% synthetic wax, formed by polymerizing α-olefins under free radical conditions to form a highly branched polymer; 0 to 4% second-hydrogenated vegetable oil or petroleum-based oil; 0 to 10% fragrance; and 0 to 3% dye. US '344 states that the resulting plant-based candle wax can withstand moderate changes in temperature and environment without sagging, cracking, or other physical degradation. Furthermore, US '344 teaches that the composition burns without producing soot and melts cleanly off the container wall. However, this plant-based candle wax does not solve the problem of frosting / blooming.

[0009] Therefore, there remains a need for a more cost-effective plant-based candle wax that prevents, delays, or reduces the formation of crystallization. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide a method for forming a plant-based candle wax composition that addresses at least some of the other known aesthetic problems associated with such materials, such as providing improved adhesion to containers and / or reduced product shrinkage. Invention Overview

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a candle wax composition is provided, the candle wax composition comprising

[0012] a. 10 to 90% by weight of one or more lauric acid fatty acids; and

[0013] b. Plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes, wherein the plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes form the remainder of the composition;

[0014] The composition contains 4 to 45% by weight of lauric acid (C12:0) and 0.1 to 20% of myristic acid (C14:0), and has an iodine value of 5 to 75.

[0015] This invention is based on a surprising discovery: candle wax compositions containing higher amounts of lauric acid and myristic acid exhibit improved stability, thereby reducing frosting. Furthermore, it has been found that candles made using the candle wax compositions according to the invention have fewer defects, thus reducing scrap rates and improving cost-effectiveness. Specifically, it has been found that the compositions according to the invention can prevent, reduce, and / or delay frosting, and improve adhesion to containers, such as glass.

[0016] The iodine value of the candle wax composition is between 5 and 75. The iodine value provides an indication of the degree of unsaturation in the oil or fat. The value provided is the number of grams of iodine absorbed by 100 grams of unsaturated fat or oil, or a blend of fat and oil. Therefore, a low iodine value indicates a higher level of saturation; for example, the iodine value of fully hydrogenated vegetable oils is typically between 0 and 4.

[0017] Iodine value can be determined using the WIJS method specified by the American Oil Chemists' Society (AOCSCd 1-25) or ASTM D5554-15 (2021).

[0018] It is believed that the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils and / or vegetable-based waxes can all be partially hydrogenated. Alternatively, the one or more lauric acid fats can be fully hydrogenated, and the vegetable-based oils and / or vegetable-based waxes can be selected from partially hydrogenated or non-hydrogenated compositions. As another option, the vegetable-based oils and / or vegetable-based waxes can be fully hydrogenated, and the one or more lauric acid fats comprise a partially hydrogenated composition.

[0019] Preferably, the iodine value of the candle wax composition is 15 to 60, more preferably 25 to 50.

[0020] In some embodiments, the candle wax composition contains 8 to 40% by weight of lauric acid (C12:0), preferably 12 to 35% by weight of lauric acid. Lauric acid fats are well known in the art to be plant fats containing high amounts of lauric acid (as shown in Table 1 – examples taken from the 1994 edition of the Lipid Handbook).

[0021] Table 1

[0022]

[0023] However, the lauric acid present in the candle wax composition may not be entirely derived from one or more lauric acid fats. The lauric acid present in the composition may be at least partially derived from the present plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes. In other examples, the lauric acid present in the candle wax composition may be entirely derived from the present one or more lauric acid fats.

[0024] In addition to containing a high amount of lauric acid, lauric acid-containing fats typically also contain myristic acid (as shown in Table 1). Therefore, in embodiments of the invention, the candle wax composition contains both lauric acid (C12:O) and myristic acid (C14:O), for example, the amount of myristic acid present may be at least 0.1% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the candle wax composition contains 1 to 15% by weight of myristic acid, more preferably 5 to 12% by weight of myristic acid.

[0025] The one or more lauric acid fats may be selected from palm kernel oil, coconut oil, babassu oil, Brazilian palm oil, murumuru oil, crown palm oil, star palm oil, and genetically modified rapeseed oil, such as Laurical®, or any fraction thereof and any mixture thereof. In a preferred composition, the one or more lauric acid fats are selected from palm kernel oil and / or coconut oil, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof.

[0026] Those skilled in the art will understand that it is entirely reasonable to select suitable fractions of one or more lauric acid fats for use in this invention. For example, a palm kernel fraction may be selected from palm kernel oil fraction or palm kernel stearin fraction. Similarly, a coconut oil fraction may be selected from coconut oil fraction or coconut oil stearin fraction.

[0027] Therefore, any fraction of the one or more lauric acid fats or any mixture thereof may be at least partially hydrogenated. Similarly, at least one fraction of the one or more lauric acid fats or any mixture thereof may be fully hydrogenated.

[0028] Of course, the melting point and shelf life of the resulting candle wax composition can be controlled by varying the amount of hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated fats and oils in the composition. Typically, the melting point of a candle wax composition is between 35°C and 80°C. In some instances, the melting point of the candle wax composition can be between 35°C and 65°C, preferably between 40°C and 60°C.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, transesterification can be used to alter the physical properties of fats and oils. Specifically, transesterification is known to change the melting temperature, crystallization properties, and shelf life of fats and oils.

[0030] As used herein, the term "ester exchange" should be understood as the following process: replacing one or more fatty acid moieties of a triglyceride with another fatty acid moieties, or exchanging one or more fatty acid moieties from one triglyceride molecule to another, or exchanging a position of a fatty acid in one triglyceride to another position in the same triglyceride. Fatty acid moieties can be understood as free fatty acids, fatty acid esters, and / or fatty acid anhydrides. Ester exchange processes can be enzymatic or chemical. Both chemical and enzymatic ester exchange processes are known in the art.

[0031] Therefore, at least one fraction of the one or more lauric acid fats, or any mixture thereof, can be transesterified. Similarly, all fractions of the one or more lauric acid fats, or any mixture thereof, can be transesterified.

[0032] Alternatively or otherwise, transesterification of plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes may be performed.

[0033] The composition may contain 15 to 80% by weight of one or more lauric acid fats, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof, preferably 20 to 60% by weight of one or more lauric acid fats, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof.

[0034] As used herein, the term "vegetable-based oil" is intended to include any fat or oil derived from plants. The term "fat" as used herein refers to glycerides of fatty acid acyl groups in fats and oils, and no specific melting point is specified. In this document, "oil" and "fat" are synonymous.

[0035] Preferably, the vegetable base oil is selected from at least partially hydrogenated or fractionated vegetable base oils, including at least partially hydrogenated or fractionated cottonseed oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil, olive oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, soybean oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, castor oil, palm oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the vegetable base oil is selected from soybean oil, shea butter, or fractions thereof, such as soybean oil or fractions thereof.

[0036] Similarly, those skilled in the art should understand that it is entirely reasonable to select a suitable fraction of vegetable-based oil for use in this invention.

[0037] The term "plant-based wax" is intended to include substances extracted from plants, containing wax esters, being solid or semi-solid at room temperature, and having a crystalline structure. In one embodiment, the plant-based wax is selected from carnauba wax, candelilla wax, and rice bran wax.

[0038] Candle wax compositions may contain plant-based oils and plant-based waxes. The ratio of plant-based oil to plant-based wax can be varied to control the melting temperature of the resulting composition. Typically, the ratio of plant-based oil to plant-based wax in the composition can be from 5:1 to 1:5, preferably from 4:1 to 1:4, more preferably from 2.5:1 to 1:2.5, for example, the ratio of plant-based oil to plant-based wax can be 1:1.

[0039] The solid fat content (SFC) of a composition refers to the percentage of solid fat present at a specific temperature. SFC is typically measured using pulsed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Specifically, SFC can be measured according to ISO 8292-1.

[0040] In some embodiments, the candle wax composition has a solid fat content (SFC) N10 of 70% or more, preferably 75% or more, and more preferably 80% or more, as measured according to ISO 8292-1.

[0041] Alternatively or additionally, the candle wax composition may have a solid fat content (SFC) N20 of 55% to 90%, preferably 60% to 85%, more preferably 65% ​​to 85%, as measured according to ISO 8292-1.

[0042] Alternatively or additionally, the candle wax composition may have a solid fat content (SFC) N30 of 35% to 70%, preferably 37% to 65%, more preferably 40% to 60%, as measured according to ISO 8292-1.

[0043] Alternatively or additionally, the candle wax composition may have a solid fat content (SFC) N35 of 15% to 55%, preferably 20% to 50%, more preferably 25% to 45%, as measured according to ISO 8292-1.

[0044] Alternatively or additionally, the candle wax composition may have a solid fat content (SFC) N40 of 5% to 40%, preferably 7% to 35%, more preferably 10% to 30%, as measured according to ISO 8292-1.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the candle wax composition has the following characteristics:

[0046] • Solid fat content (SFC) N10 is 70% or higher;

[0047] • Solid fat content (SFC) N20 is 55% to 90%;

[0048] • Solid fat content (SFC) N30 is 35% to 70%;

[0049] • Solid fat content (SFC) N35 is 15% to 55%; and

[0050] • Solid fat content (SFC) N40 is 5% to 40%.

[0051] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the candle wax composition has the following properties:

[0052] • Solid fat content (SFC) N10 is 80% or higher;

[0053] • Solid fat content (SFC) N20 is 65% to 85%;

[0054] • Solid fat content (SFC) N30 is 40% to 60%;

[0055] • Solid fat content (SFC) N35 is 25% to 45%; and

[0056] Solid fat content (SFC) N40 is 10% to 30%.

[0057] Candle wax compositions may also contain small amounts of alternative wax compositions, such as synthetic waxes (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene) or petroleum-based waxes (e.g., paraffin). Including other wax compositions can be used to modify the physical properties of the candle wax composition; for example, the presence of a small amount of paraffin can improve the thermal stability of the resulting composition. In some instances, alternative wax compositions may be selected from the paraffin composition to make the overall composition's physical properties more closely resemble those of paraffin.

[0058] As used herein, “small amount” means an amount containing less than 50% by weight, preferably 0.1 to 45% by weight, more preferably 0.5 to 30% by weight of the composition.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the candle wax composition may further comprise 30 to 45% by weight of paraffin. In another preferred embodiment, the amount of paraffin present may be 0.1 to 5% by weight of the composition, preferably 0.5 to 2% by weight.

[0060] However, in some instances, the candle wax composition may preferably be free of petrochemical derivatives.

[0061] Vegetable-based oils contain triglycerides as the main component, as well as small amounts of diglycerides, monoglycerides, and free fatty acids.

[0062] Triglycerides are ester compounds in which glycerol is linked to three fatty acids, and their general formula is:

[0063]

[0064] R 1 R2 and R 3 They are fatty acid chains, and they can be the same or different.

[0065] According to AOCS Ce 5-86, the types and amounts of triglycerides present in vegetable-based oils can be determined based on differences in molecular weight (number of carbon atoms (CN)). The symbol CNxx for triglyceride indicates a triglyceride containing xx carbon atoms in the fatty acyl group; for example, CN54 includes tristearate. The amount of triglycerides specified for each number of carbon atoms (CN) is provided as a weight percentage based on the total amount of triglycerides from CN26 to CN62 present in the fatty composition, which is standard practice in the art.

[0066] Monoglycerides that may be present in vegetable-based oils include, but are not limited to, glyceryl monooleate, glyceryl monolaurate, and glyceryl monostearate. Examples of diglycerides include, but are not limited to, glyceryl dioleate, glyceryl dilaurate, and glyceryl distearate.

[0067] The fatty acids that may be present in vegetable-based oils include, but are not limited to, lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, and combinations thereof.

[0068] The candle wax composition may contain at least 55% by weight of triglycerides, preferably at least 60% by weight of triglycerides, and more preferably at least 70% by weight of triglycerides.

[0069] The candle wax composition may also contain one or more polyol fatty acids and / or a portion of polyol esters. Specifically, if present, the amount of the one or more polyol fatty acids and / or a portion of polyol esters may be less than 15% by weight of the candle wax composition, preferably less than 10% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight.

[0070] Each molecule of the polyol fatty acid may contain at least two, preferably at least three hydroxyl groups. Typically, each molecule of a polyol fatty acid has no more than six hydroxyl groups and contains at most ten carbon atoms, preferably no more than six carbon atoms. Examples of suitable aliphatic polyols for forming polyol fatty acids include glycerol, alkylene glycols (e.g., ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, and neopentyl glycol), pentaerythritol, trimethylolethane, trimethylolpropane, sorbitan, and sorbitol. Suitable alicyclic polyols include cyclohexanediol and inositol, as well as naturally occurring cyclic polyols such as glucose, galactose, and sorbitol.

[0071] Some polyol esters have one or more unesterified hydroxyl groups, while the remaining hydroxyl groups are esterified with fatty acyl groups. The fatty acyl groups (“—C(O)R”) in some esters comprise fatty chains (straight or branched), preferably C... 14 To C 30Fatty acid chains (straight or branched).

[0072] The polyol esters may be selected from monoglycerides, diglycerides, or combinations thereof, and preferably, the polyol esters are selected from monoglycerides.

[0073] In particular examples, the polyol esters are selected from glycerol, alkylene glycols such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol and neopentyl glycol, pentaerythritol, trimethylolethane, trimethylolpropane, sorbitol, sorbitol, alicyclic polyols such as cyclohexanediol and inositol, and natural cyclic polyols such as glucose, galactose and sorbitol.

[0074] The candle wax composition may further comprise at least one additive selected from the group consisting of: colorants, fragrances, surfactants, emulsifiers, and combinations thereof. The amount of the at least one additive may be 0.1 to 15% by weight of the composition, preferably 0.5 to 10% by weight, more preferably 1 to 5% by weight. When multiple additives are present, the total amount of additives in the composition is as described above.

[0075] When present, the colorant may be selected from one or more pigments and / or dyes. Particularly suitable colorants include titanium dioxide, zinc oxide white, copper, bronze, aluminum powders and flakes, phthalocyanine blue, phthalocyanine green, and yellow and red pigments of the benzimidazolone class. In a preferred embodiment, the amount of colorant present may be from 0.1 to 5% by weight of the composition.

[0076] Examples of fragrances suitable for the candle wax compositions defined herein include, but are not limited to, sandalwood oil, civet oil, cedarwood oil, patchouli oil, bergamot oil, geranium oil, rose oil, citronella oil, eugenol, geraniol, geraniyl acetate, isoeugenol, isobornyl acetate, linaloyl acetate, linalool, methyl ethyl ketone, methylionone, phenethyl alcohol, and various other compounds such as aldehydes, ketones, esters, alcohols, and terpenes. The fragrance may be an insect repellent, such as citronellal, or a therapeutic agent, such as menthol or eucalyptus oil. In preferred embodiments, the fragrance may be present in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight of the composition, more preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight of the composition.

[0077] The surfactant is preferably selected from nonionic surfactants. Nonionic surfactants typically have hydrophobic groups (e.g., long-chain alkyl or alkylated aryl groups) and hydrophilic groups comprising ethoxy and / or propoxy moieties. Surfactants that can be used according to the invention include, but are not limited to: ethoxylated alkylphenols, ethoxylated and propoxylated fatty alcohols, methyl glucose polyethylene glycol ethers, sorbitol polyethylene glycol ethers, ethylene oxide-propylene oxide block copolymers, fatty acid (Cs-Cs) ethoxylated esters, condensation products of ethylene oxide with long-chain amines or amides, condensation products of ethylene oxide with alcohols, and mixtures thereof.

[0078] Other suitable nonionic surfactants include nonionic esters or ethers having a polyoxyalkylene moiety (e.g., polyoxyethylene) and / or containing a polyhydroxy compound (e.g., glycerol, sorbitol, or other hydrophilic groups); ethoxylated compounds, including fatty acid ester ethoxylated compounds, fatty acid ether ethoxylated compounds, and ethoxylated sugar derivatives (e.g., ethoxylated fatty acid polyesters, ethoxylated fatty acid sorbitol esters, etc.). Representative ethoxylated fatty acid sorbitan esters include, for example, polyoxyethylene sorbitan laurate (i.e., Polysorbate-20 (HLB value 16.7) and Polysorbate-21 (HLB value 13.3)), polyoxyethylene sorbitan palmitate (i.e., Polysorbate-40 (HLB value 15.6)), polyoxyethylene sorbitan stearate (i.e., Polysorbate-60 (HLB value 14.9) and Polysorbate-61 (HLB value 9.6)), polyoxyethylene sorbitan tristearate (i.e., Polysorbate-65 (HLB value 10.5)), polyoxyethylene sorbitan oleate (i.e., Polysorbate-80 (HLB value 15.0) and 81 (HLB value 10.0)), and polyoxyethylene sorbitan trioleate (i.e., Polysorbate-85 (HLB value 11.0)).

[0079] Cationic surfactants include imidazoline, diethylamine, or ethoxylated amines, such as tallow amine TAM-5 or TAM-15.

[0080] If the candle wax composition also contains a surfactant, the amount of the surfactant may be 0.1 to 10% by weight of the composition, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight. Of course, the candle wax composition may contain a combination of two or more surfactants. In these examples, the total amount of surfactant in the candle wax composition may be 0.1 to 10% by weight of the composition, preferably 0.5 to 5% by weight.

[0081] Preferably, the emulsifier may be selected from one or more nonionic emulsifiers.

[0082] Nonionic emulsifiers applicable to the candle wax compositions defined herein include, but are not limited to, ethoxylated fatty alcohols, polyoxyethylene surfactants, carboxylic acid esters, polyethylene glycol esters, sorbitan esters, derivatives of sorbitan esters, fatty acid glycol esters, carboxylic amides, monoalkanolamine condensates, and polyoxyethylene fatty acid amines. For example, nonionic emulsifiers may include fatty alcohols, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, cetearyl alcohol, oleyl alcohol, polyoxyethylene glycol alkyl ethers (Brij), polyoxypropylene glycol alkyl ethers, glucoside alkyl ethers, polyoxyethylene glycol octylphenyl ether, polyoxyethylene glycol alkylphenyl ether, glyceryl alkyl esters, polyoxyethylene glycol sorbitan alkyl esters, sorbitan alkyl esters, cocamide MEA, cocamide DEA, dodecyl dimethylamine oxide, block copolymers of polyethylene glycol, and polypropylene glycol.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the candle wax composition does not contain an antifoaming agent.

[0084] The candle wax composition can be stored before being used to make the candle body. Therefore, the candle wax composition can have any suitable shape or structure to facilitate storage. For example, the candle wax composition can be in the form of flakes, beads, granules, shavings, strips, or sheets. Alternatively, the candle wax composition can be extruded or molded into any suitable shape.

[0085] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a candle is provided, the candle comprising:

[0086] a. The solidified candle body; and

[0087] b. The candle wick that extends into the candle body.

[0088] The cured candle body is formed from the candle wax composition described above.

[0089] The candle can be formed by heating the candle wax composition as defined herein to above its melting temperature, thereby forming a liquid candle wax composition. Any suitable process known in the art can be used to form the liquid candle wax composition; for example, the candle wax can be heated using a water bath or oil bath, a heating mantle, microwave-assisted heating, or electric heating. Preferably, the candle wax composition is stirred during heating, for example using a static mixer or a mechanically stirred mixing vessel, to improve the overall heat transfer efficiency of the candle wax, thereby reducing the time required to form the liquid composition.

[0090] The candle wax composition can remain liquid for 1 minute to 24 hours, preferably 5 minutes to 15 hours, and more preferably 10 minutes to 10 hours, before processing to form a candle. During the period when the candle wax remains liquid, it can be continuously stirred to ensure uniform heating.

[0091] As used herein, the term "candle" refers to a tangible, solid block of wax with a wick extending from its center. This wick is intended to be lit and burn using candle wax as fuel. Preferably, the wick extends along the entire length of the candle, from the top to the bottom.

[0092] Many different types of candles are known in the art. These candles include molded candles, crown candles, container candles, impregnated candles, and column candles.

[0093] Molded candles and crown candles are formed by pouring molten wax into a mold; inserting a wick into the molten wax; and then allowing the wax composition to solidify through crystallization. The crystallization behavior of the candle wax is crucial for this application. If the wax crystallizes too quickly, the wax composition will shrink excessively in the mold, resulting in an uneven candle surface and affecting its appearance. This often occurs in candle wax compositions that contain only fully hydrogenated vegetable oils, such as those with an iodine value of 0 to 4. Conversely, if the wax composition is too soft and crystallizes too slowly, it will not shrink sufficiently during the molding process, causing the composition to adhere to the mold once solidified.

[0094] Container candles are candles in which solid wax is contained within a container. These candles are made by pouring molten wax into a container; inserting a wick into the molten wax; and then allowing the molten wax to solidify to form the candle. However, if crystallization occurs too quickly, the candle wax may shrink, causing the composition to separate from the inner wall of the container. This effect results in undesirable gaps between the container and the candle. Such defects not only increase the scrap rate during production, thus reducing the overall value of the product, but also increase the manufacturer's production costs.

[0095] Impregnated candles are produced by immersing the wick in molten wax, then removing it to cover it with a thin layer of wax that can solidify. This wax-impregnation process is then repeated, layering wax layers until the candle reaches the desired thickness. The crystallization behavior of the candle wax is also very important in the production of impregnated candles.

[0096] Pillar candles are made by applying high pressure to solid particles, powders, or flakes of a wax composition, which causes these particles to coalesce into a solid whole, resulting in the finished candle.

[0097] These candle types are manufactured in different ways, meaning that each type of candle requires its wax to have different optimal properties. For example, for container candles, molded candles, and crown candles, the crystallization behavior of the wax composition (i.e., how the wax crystallizes upon cooling) is important, while this is less important for column candles. For column candles, the behavior of the solid wax particles under the high pressure used in the manufacturing process is more critical.

[0098] Furthermore, as mentioned above, candles produced using plant-based wax compositions are known to be more prone to undesirable frosting / blooming (i.e., the transformation of fat crystals from one polymorph to another).

[0099] Surprisingly, candle wax compositions containing higher levels of lauric acid and myristic acid were found to have improved stability, resulting in prevention or reduction of blooming. Furthermore, the candle wax compositions defined herein provide enhanced adhesion to container surfaces, thereby reducing defects commonly found in container candles.

[0100] Therefore, the candle wax compositions defined herein are considered particularly suitable for making container candles.

[0101] In making a candle according to the present invention, the candle wick can be brought into contact with a liquid candle wax composition, such that a portion of the candle wick is coated with the liquid candle wax composition. The candle wax composition coating is then allowed to cool on the surface of the candle wick. The following steps can be repeated until a suitable candle body thickness is formed around the candle wick: i) bringing the candle wick into contact with the liquid candle wax composition, such that a portion of the candle wick is coated with the liquid candle wax composition; and ii) allowing the coating to cool.

[0102] Alternatively, the candle according to the invention can be formed by the following steps: i) placing a candle wick in a mold; ii) heating the candle wax composition defined herein to a temperature above its melting temperature to form a liquid candle wax composition; iii) pouring the liquid candle wax composition into a mold; and iv) cooling and solidifying the liquid candle wax composition.

[0103] In some embodiments, the mold is used only to shape the candle body, so the shaped candle can be removed from the mold after step iv). In other embodiments, the mold can also serve as a container for the candle, so once the liquid candle wax composition has solidified, there is no need to remove the candle body from the container.

[0104] In a preferred embodiment, the candle is placed inside a container, which is preferably made of glass, metal, wood, ceramic, or plastic.

[0105] Candle wicks can be made from any of the conventional materials known for use in candles, such as natural and synthetic fibers, such as cotton, linen, wood, or paper.

[0106] A candle can have multiple wicks. For example, a candle can have two wicks, three wicks, four wicks, five wicks, six wicks, seven wicks, eight wicks, nine wicks, or ten wicks.

[0107] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method for producing a candle wax composition is provided, wherein the method comprises the following steps:

[0108] a. Providing one or more lauric acid fats, wherein the amount of said lauric acid fats is 10 to 90% by weight of the composition;

[0109] b. Provide a plant-based oil and / or a plant-based wax, wherein the plant-based oil and / or plant-based wax form the remainder of the composition;

[0110] c. Heating the one or more lauryl fatty acids and vegetable-based oils / waxes to a temperature of 40 to 90°C to form a liquid composition;

[0111] d. A liquid composition of one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes is mixed to form a homogeneous composition;

[0112] e. Cool the homogeneous composition to room temperature.

[0113] The composition contains 4 to 45% by weight of lauric acid (C12:0) and 0.1% to 20% of myristic acid (C14:0), and has an iodine value of 5 to 75.

[0114] Preferably, the one or more lauric acid fats, plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes are as described above.

[0115] For example, the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes can be combined before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C. Preferably, the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes are mixed before heating to improve the homogeneity of the components. For example, the vegetable-based oils / waxes can be in a form suitable for promoting the mixing of one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes before heating, such as granular, beaded, or shaving form.

[0116] Alternatively, the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable oils / waxes are first heated to a temperature of 40 to 90°C before being combined into their respective liquid compositions. In some instances, heating the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable oils / waxes separately reduces the time required for each component to reach the desired temperature and shortens the overall time for forming the candle wax composition.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes can be heated to a temperature of 50 to 85°C, more preferably 55 to 75°C.

[0118] In step d, the mixing of one or more lauric acid fats and a liquid composition of vegetable oils / waxes lasts from 1 minute to 15 hours, preferably from 10 minutes to 10 hours, and more preferably from 30 minutes to 5 hours.

[0119] Mixing can be performed using any suitable equipment, such as passing the combined one or more lauric fats and vegetable oils / waxes through a mixing valve, using a static mixer, or using a mechanically agitated mixing vessel. Alternatively, mixing can be induced by turbulence along the length of the pipe. Preferably, mixing is performed by passing the combined one or more lauric fats and vegetable oils / waxes through a mixing valve. This allows the components to be thoroughly mixed, resulting in a homogeneous composition. The pressure differential across the mixing valve can be, for example, 1 to 20 psi, more preferably 4 to 17 psi, and most preferably 7 to 14 psi.

[0120] In step e, the step of cooling the homogeneous composition to room temperature can be carried out by any suitable means in the art, such as ambient cooling or using a fan, cooling jacket or temperature-controlled water bath to cool the homogeneous composition.

[0121] For example, the homogeneous composition in step e can be used to cool one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes from step c using a heat exchanger. The overall cost of the process can be further reduced by reusing the heat extracted from the homogeneous composition.

[0122] Preferably, the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes are selected such that the solid fat content (SFC) of the resulting candle wax composition meets the above definition.

[0123] In a preferred embodiment, the resulting candle wax composition has the following characteristics:

[0124] • Solid fat content (SFC) N10 is 70% or higher;

[0125] • Solid fat content (SFC) N20 is 55% to 90%;

[0126] • Solid fat content (SFC) N30 is 35% to 70%;

[0127] • Solid fat content (SFC) N35 is 15% to 55%; and

[0128] • Solid fat content (SFC) N40 is 5% to 40%.

[0129] In particularly preferred embodiments, the resulting candle wax composition has the following properties:

[0130] • Solid fat content (SFC) N10 is 80% or higher;

[0131] • Solid fat content (SFC) N20 is 65% to 85%;

[0132] • Solid fat content (SFC) N30 is 40% to 60%;

[0133] • Solid fat content (SFC) N35 is 25% to 45%; and

[0134] Solid fat content (SFC) N40 is 10% to 30%.

[0135] The method may further include a step of providing an alternative wax composition before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C. The alternative wax composition may be selected from synthetic waxes (e.g., polyethylene or polypropylene) or petroleum-based waxes (e.g., paraffin). Adding other wax compositions can be used to modify the physical properties of the candle wax composition; for example, the presence of a small amount of paraffin can improve the thermal stability of the resulting composition. In some instances, alternative wax compositions may be selected from paraffin compositions so that the overall physical properties of the composition are consistent with those of paraffin.

[0136] Paraffin can be added to one or more lauric fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes in the amounts described above before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C.

[0137] The method may also include the step of providing one or more polyol fatty acids or a portion of polyol esters before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C.

[0138] The one or more polyol fatty acids and / or some polyol esters can be as described above.

[0139] Preferably, the one or more polyol fatty acids and / or a portion of the polyol esters may be added to one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable oils / waxes in an amount less than 15% by weight, preferably less than 10% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight of the candle wax composition.

[0140] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is a use for the candle wax composition defined herein to reduce frosting.

[0141] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is a use for using the candle wax composition defined herein to improve the adhesion of candle wax to glass.

[0142] The invention will now be described with reference to the following non-limiting embodiments and accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0143] Figures 1A to 1C A candle formed from a candle wax composition according to the present invention is shown;

[0144] Figures 2A to 2D A candle formed from a candle wax composition according to the invention is shown; and

[0145] Figure 3A and 3B A candle formed from a candle wax composition according to the present invention is shown. Example

[0146] The following examples are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

[0147] Example 1

[0148] Candle wax compositions are produced by combining fully hydrogenated palm kernel oil and partially hydrogenated soybean oil in a 1:1 ratio, and adding distilled monoglycerides at 2% by weight of the final composition.

[0149] Heat each component to 85°C and stir until a generally homogeneous composition is formed.

[0150] Pour the homogeneous composition into a glass container and allow it to cool to ambient temperature.

[0151] The fatty acid composition of the candle wax formula is shown in Table 2.

[0152] Table 2

[0153]

[0154] The iodine value of the candle wax composition was determined to be 26.8. For example... Figures 1A to 1C As shown, the candle wax composition exhibits good adhesion to glass containers. Furthermore, no evidence of frost formation was observed during the initial cooling of the candle wax composition. During a 15-week monitoring period, the candle wax composition demonstrated good container adhesion, and no frost formation was observed.

[0155] Example 2

[0156] The production of a second candle wax composition comprises 20% by weight palm kernel stearin, 77% by weight partially hydrogenated soybean oil and 3% by weight sorbitan tristearate.

[0157] Heat each component to 85°C and stir until a generally homogeneous composition is formed.

[0158] Cool the homogeneous composition to 75°C and pour it into a glass container. Then allow the candle wax composition to cool to ambient temperature to solidify.

[0159] The fatty acid composition of the candle wax formula is shown in Table 3.

[0160] Table 3

[0161]

[0162] The iodine value of the candle wax composition was determined to be 40.1. Similarly, Figures 2A to 2D The candle wax composition was shown to adhere completely to the glass container. Furthermore, no evidence of frost was observed during the initial cooling of the candle wax composition. Throughout the 20-week monitoring period, the candle wax composition consistently exhibited good container adhesion, and no frost was observed.

[0163] Example 3

[0164] A third type of candle wax composition is produced, comprising 20% ​​by weight of fully hydrogenated coconut oil, 76% by weight of partially hydrogenated soybean oil, and 4% by weight of distilled monoglycerides.

[0165] Heat each component to 85°C and stir until a generally homogeneous composition is formed.

[0166] Cool the homogeneous composition to 75°C and pour it into a glass container. Then allow the candle wax composition to cool to ambient temperature to solidify.

[0167] The fatty acid composition of the candle wax formula is shown in Table 4.

[0168] Table 4

[0169]

[0170] The iodine value of the candle wax composition was determined to be 38. For example... Figure 3A and 3B As shown, the candle wax composition exhibits good adhesion to glass containers. Furthermore, no evidence of frost formation was observed during the initial cooling of the candle wax composition. Throughout the 4-week monitoring period, the candle wax composition maintained good container adhesion, and no frost formation was observed.

Claims

1. A candle wax composition, said candle wax composition comprising: a. 10 to 90% by weight of one or more lauric acid fatty acids; and b. Plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes, wherein the plant-based oils and / or plant-based waxes form the remainder of the composition; The composition contains 4 to 45% by weight of lauric acid (C12:0) and 0.1 to 20% of myristic acid (C14:0), and has an iodine value of 5 to 75.

2. The candle wax composition according to claim 1, wherein the composition comprises 8 to 40% by weight of lauric acid.

3. The candle wax composition according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the composition comprises 12 to 35% by weight of lauric acid.

4. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises 1 to 15% by weight of myristic acid, preferably 5 to 12% by weight of myristic acid.

5. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more lauric acid fats are selected from palm kernel oil, coconut oil, babassu oil, Brazilian palm oil, murumuru oil, crown palm oil, star palm oil, and genetically modified rapeseed oil, such as Laurical®, any fraction thereof, and any mixture thereof; preferably, the one or more lauric acid fats are selected from palm kernel oil and / or coconut oil, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof.

6. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the one or more lauric acid fats, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof is at least partially hydrogenated.

7. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the one or more lauric acid fats, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof is fully hydrogenated.

8. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the one or more lauric acid fats, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof is transesterified.

9. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises 15 to 80% by weight of the one or more lauric acid fats, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof.

10. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises 20 to 60% by weight of the one or more lauryl fatty acids, any fraction thereof, or any mixture thereof.

11. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more lauric fats comprise palm kernel oil, preferably palm kernel oil extract or palm kernel stearin.

12. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plant-based oil is selected from at least partially hydrogenated or fractionated cottonseed oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil, olive oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, almond oil, jojoba oil, soybean oil, avocado oil, sesame oil, castor oil, palm oil, shea butter, cocoa butter, or combinations thereof, preferably, the plant-based oil is selected from soybean oil, shea butter, or fractions thereof, such as soybean oil or fractions thereof.

13. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the plant-based wax is selected from carnauba wax, candelilla wax, and rice bran wax.

14. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to ISO 8292-1, the solid fat content (SFC) N10 of the composition is 70% or more, preferably 75% or more, more preferably 80% or more.

15. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to ISO 8292-1, the solid fat content (SFC) N20 of the composition is 55% to 90%, preferably 60% to 85%, more preferably 65% ​​to 85%.

16. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to ISO 8292-1, the solid fat content (SFC) N30 of the composition is 35% to 70%, preferably 37% to 65%, more preferably 40% to 60%.

17. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to ISO 8292-1, the solid fat content (SFC) N35 of the composition is 15% to 55%, preferably 20% to 50%, more preferably 25% to 45%.

18. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to ISO 8292-1, the solid fat content (SFC) N40 of the composition is 5% to 40%, preferably 7% to 35%, more preferably 10% to 30%.

19. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, according to ISO 8292-1, the solid fat content (SFC) of the composition is more than 80% for N10, 65 to 85% for N20, 40 to 60% for N30, 25 to 45% for N35, and 10 to 30% for N40.

20. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises paraffin wax.

21. The candle wax composition of claim 20, wherein the paraffin is present in an amount of 30 to 45% by weight.

22. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition comprises at least 55% by weight of triglycerides, preferably at least 60% by weight of triglycerides, more preferably at least 70% by weight of triglycerides.

23. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises one or more polyol fatty acids or a portion of polyol esters.

24. The candle wax composition according to claim 23, wherein the amount of the polyol fatty acid or a portion of the polyol ester present is less than 15% by weight, preferably less than 10% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight.

25. The candle wax composition according to claim 23 or 24, wherein the polyol ester portion is selected from monoglycerides, diglycerides, or combinations thereof.

26. The candle wax composition of claim 25, wherein the polyol ester portion is selected from monoglycerides.

27. The candle wax composition according to claim 25 or 26, wherein the polyol ester is selected from glycerol, alkylene glycols such as ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol and neopentyl glycol, pentaerythritol, trimethylolethane, trimethylolpropane, sorbitol, sorbitol, alicyclic polyols such as cyclohexanediol and inositol, and natural cyclic polyols such as glucose, galactose and sorbitol.

28. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition further comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of: colorants, fragrances, surfactants, emulsifiers, and combinations thereof.

29. The candle wax composition according to claim 28, wherein the at least one additive is present in an amount of 0.1 to 10% by weight of the composition, preferably 0.1 to 5% by weight of the composition.

30. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the composition does not contain an antifoaming agent.

31. The candle wax composition according to claim 30, wherein the iodine value of the composition is 15 to 60, preferably 25 to 50.

32. The candle wax composition according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the melting point of the composition is 35 to 65°C, preferably 40 to 60°C.

33. A candle, said candle comprising: a. The solidified candle body; and b. A candle wick extending into the candle body. The cured candle body is formed from the candle wax composition according to any one of claims 1 to 32.

34. The candle of claim 33, wherein the candle is placed in a container, preferably the container is made of glass, metal, wood, ceramic or plastic material.

35. A method for preparing a candle wax composition, wherein the method comprises the following steps: a. Providing one or more lauric acid fats, wherein the amount of said lauric acid fats is 10 to 90% by weight of the composition; b. Provide a plant-based oil and / or a plant-based wax, wherein the plant-based oil and / or plant-based wax form the remainder of the composition; c. Heating the one or more lauryl fatty acids and vegetable-based oils / waxes to a temperature of 40 to 90°C to form a liquid composition; d. The liquid composition of one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable-based oils / waxes is mixed to form a homogeneous composition; e. Cool the homogeneous composition to room temperature. The composition contains 4 to 45% by weight of lauric acid (C12:0) and 0.1 to 20% of myristic acid (C14:0), and has an iodine value of 5 to 75.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable base oils / waxes are combined before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable oils / waxes are first heated to a temperature of 40 to 90°C before combining their respective liquid compositions.

38. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 37, wherein the one or more lauric acid fats and vegetable base oils / waxes are heated to a temperature of 50 to 85°C, preferably 55 to 75°C.

39. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 38, wherein the step of mixing one or more lauric acid fats and a liquid composition of vegetable oils / waxes lasts for 1 minute to 15 hours, preferably 10 minutes to 10 hours, more preferably 30 minutes to 5 hours.

40. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 39, wherein the step of cooling the homogeneous composition to room temperature comprises ambient cooling or cooling the homogeneous composition using a fan, cooling jacket, or temperature-controlled water bath.

41. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 40, wherein the one or more lauric acid fats are defined as any one of claims 5 to 11.

42. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 41, wherein the plant-based oil and plant-based wax are as defined in claims 12 and 13.

43. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 42, wherein the solid fat content (SFC) of the composition is as defined in any one of claims 14 to 19.

44. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 43, wherein the method further comprises the step of providing paraffin wax before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C, preferably in an amount of 30 to 45% by weight of the composition.

45. The method according to any one of claims 35 to 44, wherein the method further comprises the step of providing one or more polyol fatty acids or partial polyol esters before heating to a temperature of 40 to 90°C, said one or more polyol fatty acids or partial polyol esters as defined in any one of claims 23 to 27.

46. ​​The use of the candle wax composition according to any one of claims 1 to 32 for reducing frosting.

47. Use of the candle wax composition according to any one of claims 1 to 32 for improving the adhesion of candle wax to glass.

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