Synthesis and characterization of soybean oil-based waxes and their application as paraffin substitute for corrugated coating

This study focused on modifying the structure of acyl lipid to obtain waxes with desirable properties of paraffin. Structure–function relationships were investigated and established. An increase in chain length significantly increased the hardness of esters. A hydroxyl group on the end of a linear monoester chain further increased hardness. Addition of pendent hydroxyl group increased the cohesiveness of ethylene glycol mono and diesters (EGMD). Incorporating ether groups into diester also significantly increased cohesiveness. Two potential paraffin substitutes were identified. Hydrophobic particles significantly improved water resistance and wet strength of the cardboards and a coating performance competitive to paraffin was achieved.