Product Overview
Chlorinated Paraffin (CP) is a multifunctional additive widely used as a secondary plasticizer, flame retardant, and extreme pressure additive in industrial formulations. It is commonly applied in PVC processing, rubber compounds, coatings, metalworking fluids, and flame-retardant materials.
Chlorinated paraffin typically appears as a light yellow to amber viscous liquid, with low volatility and good chemical stability. It exhibits excellent compatibility with PVC, rubber, mineral oils, and various industrial materials, making it a versatile additive in polymer and lubricant formulations.
Due to its flame-retardant properties, plasticizing performance, and chemical resistance, chlorinated paraffin is widely used in products requiring improved flexibility, fire resistance, and durability.
Physicochemical Characteristics
Appearance
Light yellow to amber viscous liquid with little or no odor.
Density
Approximately 1.25 – 1.35 g/cm³ at 25°C.
Thermal Stability
Stable under normal storage conditions but may begin to decompose at temperatures above 120°C, potentially releasing hydrogen chloride (HCl).
Volatility
Low volatility, making it suitable for long-term applications.
Compatibility
Good compatibility with PVC, rubber, mineral oils, and various polymer materials, allowing easy incorporation into industrial formulations.
Functional Properties
Flame Retardancy
Chlorinated paraffin acts as an effective flame retardant, interrupting the combustion chain reaction by releasing chlorine radicals, which reduce the flammability of materials.
Plasticizing Effect
It functions as an auxiliary plasticizer, improving the flexibility and processability of PVC and other polymer materials.
Electrical Insulation
Chlorinated paraffin enhances the electrical insulation properties of materials, making it suitable for wire and cable applications.
Lubrication and Extreme Pressure Performance
In lubricant formulations, it acts as an extreme pressure (EP) additive, improving the anti-wear and load-bearing properties of industrial lubricants.
Chemical Stability
The compound exhibits strong resistance to acids, alkalis, and oxidizing agents, ensuring good environmental and chemical stability in industrial applications.
Main Application Areas
Plastics Industry
Chlorinated paraffin is widely used in PVC processing.
Typical applications include:
- PVC cable sheathing
- Flexible PVC flooring materials
- Industrial hoses
- Plastic sheets and films
It can partially replace primary plasticizers such as DOP, helping reduce formulation costs while maintaining flexibility.
It is also used as a flame-retardant additive in plastics such as PE and PP, commonly applied in electronic housings and construction materials.
Rubber Industry
In rubber manufacturing, chlorinated paraffin acts as a flame retardant and softener, improving flexibility and fire resistance in products such as:
- Conveyor belts
- Rubber seals
- Industrial rubber components
Paints and Coatings
Chlorinated paraffin is used in fire-resistant coatings and marine paints, improving both flame resistance and chemical durability.
Metal Processing Fluids
It is commonly added to cutting oils and gear oils as an extreme pressure additive, improving wear resistance and extending tool life during metal machining.
Other Industrial Applications
Additional applications include:
- Adhesives – improving flexibility and bonding strength
- Textiles and leather – used as flame retardant treatment agents or softening additives
Typical Usage and Processing Guidelines
Recommended Dosage
Plasticizing Applications
- Typically 5% – 30% when used with primary plasticizers
- Exact ratio depends on desired hardness and flexibility
Flame Retardant Formulations
- Usually 10% – 20% of the base material
- Often used together with other flame retardants such as antimony trioxide
Processing Considerations
Mixing
- Blend evenly with resin and fillers at room temperature
- Avoid localized overheating during mixing
Processing Temperature
- Recommended to maintain processing temperatures below 120°C
- For higher temperature processing, heat stabilizers such as calcium–zinc stabilizers should be added
Compounding Recommendations
- Use in combination with primary plasticizers (e.g., DOP or DINP) to balance performance and cost
- In flame-retardant systems, chlorinated paraffin can be combined with antimony trioxide (Sb₂O₃) in approximately 3:1 ratio to improve flame-retardant efficiency
Storage and Safety
Storage Conditions
- Store in sealed containers in a cool and dry environment
- Avoid exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight
Handling Safety
- Use appropriate protective equipment such as gloves and goggles
- Ensure adequate ventilation during handling and processing
- Avoid prolonged exposure to vapors
