What is Laboratory Paraffin? Complete Guide and Applications

Laboratory paraffin is a vital substance in medical sciences, pharmaceuticals, biology, and manufacturing. In this article, get familiar with its applications, advantages, features, and important selection tips.

What is Laboratory Paraffin?

Laboratory paraffin wax is a type of paraffin with very high purity and controlled physical properties, specially designed and produced for precise scientific and research applications. This substance is classified as solid paraffin and

unlike industrial types, it has minimal impurities, no added odor or color, and is completely uniform.

Since even the slightest change in composition or properties can affect test results in medical and laboratory environments, laboratory paraffin production must comply with strict standards.

Technical Characteristics of Laboratory Paraffin

• Oil content: less than 0.5% (up to 0.1% in some brands)

• Melting point: usually between 56 to 60 degrees Celsius

• Color: transparent white to light milky, without additives

• Odor: odorless or very mild if present

• Purity: above 99%, based on certified analysis (COA)

These features ensure the material is suitable for sensitive processes such as histology, molecular biology, and pharmaceuticals.

Specialized Applications of Laboratory Paraffin

1. Use in Histology and Pathology
   Biological tissues collected for microscopic examination must be preserved in a medium that allows precise cutting with a microtome. Laboratory paraffin serves as this preserving medium to maintain cell structure and prepare for staining.
   Without high-purity paraffin, tissue samples may be damaged or diagnostic accuracy reduced.

2. Molecular and Cellular Biology
   In specialized tests such as In Situ Hybridization, PCR from paraffin-embedded samples, or DNA/RNA extraction, the paraffin quality directly impacts accuracy. Laboratory paraffin prevents interfering compounds from entering the sample.

3. Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Industries
   Laboratory-grade paraffin is used in producing semi-solid drugs (like ointments), therapeutic creams, and topical products. Due to high purity and non-reactivity, it plays a fundamental role in their formulation.

4. Cosmetics R&D
   In the research and development departments of cosmetic companies, laboratory paraffin is used to test stability and reactivity of other ingredients.

Why is Laboratory Paraffin Important?

The main difference between laboratory and industrial paraffin is purity, uniformity, and standardization. Using non-standard paraffin in tests can cause:

• Sample contamination

• Incorrect laboratory results

• Damage to sensitive equipment like microtomes or PCR machines

• Reduced quality of cosmetic and healthcare products during R&D.

Packaging, Transport, and Storage

Laboratory paraffin is usually supplied in sealed hygienic packaging made of resistant polyethylene or cardboard with moisture-proof inner layers. Package weights typically range from 1 kg to 25 kg.

Storage tips:

• Keep away from direct sunlight

• Store in a dry, cool, and ventilated place

• Avoid corrosive chemicals or strong odors

Important Tips When Buying Laboratory Paraffin

1. Obtain Certificate of Analysis (COA): shows exact composition, melting point, oil percentage, purity, and other specs.

2. Buy from reputable sellers: supplier should have experience selling to scientific, medical, or pharmaceutical centers.

3. Check packaging and storage conditions: paraffin is sensitive to moisture and heat.

4. Consider intended use: uniform melting point is critical if used for microtomy.

Supply and Export of Laboratory Paraffin in Iran

Some companies in Iran produce laboratory paraffin or import it from European and Asian countries. Although imported types are more expensive, their use is sometimes necessary for specific research needs or international

certification requirements.

Exporters must observe:

• Providing international certificates like MSDS and COA

• Compliance with export packaging standards

• Multilingual labeling

• Adherence to destination country regulations (e.g., EU REACH)

Final Conclusion

Laboratory paraffin is a vital and strategic material for many scientific, medical, pharmaceutical, and research applications. Using pure, standardized, and certified paraffin guarantees the success of experiments and final product

quality.

Investing in a reputable supplier and high-grade paraffin ensures not only quality but also strengthens your reputation in domestic and international markets.

With us, superior power, victorious competition.