From Origins to Widespread Industrial Use

Paraffin wax is one of the most popular waxes that we offer, and we are proud to serve customers in a huge range of industries. Do you ever wonder where the wax that you buy from us comes from, and how its use has developed over the years? As a highly regarded online paraffin wax supplier, we’re ideally placed to share the history of paraffin wax with you!

Origins and Early Use

The story of paraffin wax begins in the 1830s. A German chemist named Karl von Reichenbach first identified and named the substance “paraffin.” Initially, this wax was seen as a byproduct of the oil-refining process and had limited practical applications. Its primary use was as an insulator for telegraph cables and for coating certain surfaces to make them waterproof. It wasn’t until the mid-19th century that paraffin wax’s true potential was realised.

Advancements in Refinement

In the 1850s, James Young, a Scottish chemist, made significant strides in refining paraffin wax. He patented a method for distilling petroleum to obtain a more purified and versatile product. This marked a turning point in the history of paraffin wax. Suddenly, it became accessible and affordable – and the high-quality paraffin wax produced through this method was in huge demand.

Widespread Industrial Use

The late 19th century saw the industrial applications of paraffin wax multiply rapidly. Its low cost, stability, and ability to solidify at room temperature made it ideal for numerous industries. It became a staple in the production of candles, replacing tallow and beeswax. The consistency and brightness of the wax ultimately led to the growth of the candle industry that we see today.

The industrial and technological advancements of the 20th century further fuelled the demand for paraffin wax. Its applications extended beyond candles to include food preservation, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and a range of manufacturing processes.

Why Shopping for Paraffin Wax at Poth Hille is the Best Choice

We’re one of the leading suppliers of paraffin wax, and customers who choose us can expect the following:

  • Unparalleled Expertise: With over a century of experience, we can ensure that customers receive the best product for their specific needs.
  • Quality Assurance: We are committed to delivering top-quality paraffin wax that adheres to strict industry standards, so you can rely on us for consistent and reliable products.
  • Different Wax Grades: We know that each customer has unique requirements for paraffin wax. That’s why we sell different grades of paraffin wax, so you can find one that meets your needs.
  • Customer Support: We pride ourselves on excellent customer service. We are responsive to inquiries, with no question being too big or small for us to answer.

Get in Touch

To find out more about paraffin wax and how we could help you, please get in touch with a member of our team today. We’d love to hear from you!