There are eight distinct candle making additives used in the candle making process. Some makers choose not to use them at all while others take advantage of what each type of additive has to offer to their candle making process. Candle wax additives are inexpensive and work well if you are educated in how to use them and why to use each kind.
1 – Kemamide
Kemamide is a fine powder. It has a hint of ivory in the color, but it is close to being transparent. This type of additive becomes clumped if it is exposed to humidity so keep it in a closed, dry environment. Use this type of additive as a release agent. Add one teaspoon for each pound of wax.
2 – Poly-AC
Poly-AC is a fine powder, white in color. It has a dry texture and should also be stored in a dry environment to prevent clumping. This additive is a hardener. To be effective, add one teaspoon for each pound of wax.
3 – Chimasorb 81
Chimasorb 81 is a powder with a yellowish tint. Of all the additives, this one is the most likely to clump, even in areas of low humidity. Chimasorb 81 is used to enhance color. You do not need much of it, 1/10 of a percent for each pound of wax.
4 – Stearic Powder
Stearic Powder is flaky. The color is white. This additive doesnít react to humidity at all so it is an agreeable product to use for hardening. They amount you will use depends on the type of candles you are making. This additive helps reduce the temperature needed to melt the wax. Add about three teaspoons for each pound of wax. Be careful not to over use Stearic Powder as doing so will cause damage to the wax.
5 – 103 Vybar
103 Vybar generally is sold in the form of very small beads. The beads flow loosely and do not stick or clump together, even in areas of high humidity. 103 Vybar is a hardener as well. It will add a very creamy texture to your candle wax. This is a perfect hardener to use for scented candles. Add one teaspoon to for every pound of wax.
6- Paraflint
Paraflint is another hardener. It comes in beaded form similar to the 103 Vybar. However, the beads are much larger. You will want to use one teaspoon for every pound of wax.
7 – Poly 400
Poly 400 comes in the form of beads that vary is size and shape. This is a UV inhibitor, which will keep your candles from fading in the sunlight. This additive is also to be used at the rate of one teaspoon for every pound of wax.
8 – BHT Crystal
BHT Crystal is a yellowish powder. This is an antioxidant for wax that has been stored in liquid form for a length of time. Using this crystal will also add a very pretty luster to your wax.
Why addition of candle making additives can help improve the properties of candles
Candles are a beautiful and versatile home decoration and can also be a profitable business opportunity. The addition of candle making additives can help improve the properties of candles and make them stand out in the market. Whether you are looking to make scented candles, UV-resistant candles, or hard candles, there is an additive that can help you achieve the desired result.
Use the additives in the correct amounts
One of the most important things to keep in mind when using candle making additives is to use them in the correct amounts. Overuse of additives can cause damage to the wax and negatively impact the appearance and burn quality of the candles. This is why it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the various additives and the correct amounts to use for each one.
For example, Kemamide can be used as a release agent to help candles come out of the mold easier. It should be added in the amount of one teaspoon per pound of wax. Poly-AC is a hardener that can be added in the amount of one teaspoon per pound of wax to help the candles maintain their shape. Chimasorb 81 is a yellowish powder that can be used to enhance color in the amount of 1/10 of a percent per pound of wax.
Stearic Powder, which is flaky and white in color, can be used to reduce the temperature needed to melt the wax. It should be added in the amount of three teaspoons per pound of wax. 103 Vybar is a hardener that is perfect for scented candles and can be added in the amount of one teaspoon per pound of wax. Paraflint, another hardener, should be added in the amount of one teaspoon per pound of wax.
Poly 400 is a UV inhibitor that can be added in the amount of one teaspoon per pound of wax to keep candles from fading in the sunlight. BHT Crystal is a yellowish powder that can be used as an antioxidant for liquid wax and also adds a pretty luster to the wax.
Conclusion
Candle-making additives are a fantastic way to improve the properties of candles and make them stand out in the market. It’s important to use them in the correct amounts to avoid damaging the wax and negatively impacting the appearance and burn quality of the candles. Get creative and start making candles at home for money today!
