Airable Research Lab has synthesized a soy-based wax that can replace carnauba wax in formulations. Carnauba wax is sourced from the carnauba palm tree, which grows only in Brazil. Carnauba has useful properties such as a high melting point, UV ray protection, water resistance, and extreme density, making this source material popular across multiple industries. However, today’s supply chain issues encourage the use of local sources. In addition, harvesting and transporting the raw material has a history of environmental and social implications within Brazil. Furthermore, the very density that makes the raw material attractive also necessitates that synthetic chemicals (usually petroleum-based) be added to form a wax paste that can be easily applied. With these challenges in mind, the Airable team produced a bio-based, locally and ethically sourced wax to replace carnauba wax. The Airable product can be used for home DIY products and industrial applications.
Overview
Airable Research Lab has synthesized a soy-based wax that can replace carnauba wax in formulations. Carnauba wax is sourced from the carnauba palm tree, which grows only in Brazil. Carnauba has useful properties such as a high melting point, UV ray protection, water resistance, and extreme density, making this source material popular across multiple industries. However, today’s supply chain issues encourage the use of local sources. In addition, harvesting and transporting the raw material has a history of environmental and social implications within Brazil. Furthermore, the very density that makes the raw material attractive also necessitates that synthetic chemicals (usually petroleum-based) be added to form a wax paste that can be easily applied.
With these challenges in mind, the Airable team produced a bio-based, locally and ethically sourced wax to replace carnauba wax. The Airable product can be used for home DIY products and industrial applications.
The Technology
Soybean oil is functionalized to increase its molecular weight, melting point, and crystallinity, yielding a soy-based wax. The wax can then be formulated into a usable product that provides a durable, water-repellant wax coating that can be polished into a glossy finish. Airable has developed and demonstrated final products that are derived largely from biological substances, with a composition of over 90% plant oils on a solids basis.
Benefits
GREEN PRODUCTS CAPITALIZE ON A CRITICAL MARKET TREND
Growing sustainability concerns have prompted advocacy for stricter chemical regulations, and both evolving policy and consumer preference have stimulated market shifts toward bio-based raw materials. Soybeans have broad applications across both consumer and industrial spheres, often providing benefits in terms of cost, function, and sustainability.
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