MSDS for Polyethylene Wax Emulsion
Identification
Product Name: Polyethylene Wax Emulsion
Chemical Family: Polyethylene, emulsified
Synonyms: PE Wax Emulsion
Recommended Use: Surface coating, textile, paper, lubricant, plastic processing
Manufacturer: Name, Address, Emergency Phone Number, Email contact
CAS Number: Available upon request or 68441-17-8 for general reference
Emergency Contact: Local fire department or poison control center for advice on exposure incidents
Hazard Identification
Classification: Non-hazardous material under OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200
Physical Hazards: May produce slippery surfaces; molten material may cause burns
Health Hazards: Inhalation of fumes from heating may cause respiratory irritation; repeated skin contact may occasionally result in irritation
Environmental Hazards: Spilled product may cause environmental risks if released in large quantities to water bodies or storm drains
Label Elements: Not typically required, but include warning for hot material
Precautionary Statements: Use proper PPE; avoid release into environment; avoid inhaling fumes during application
Composition / Information on Ingredients
Chemical Composition: Polyethylene wax 40-60%, Water 40-60%, Non-ionic surfactants 1-5%
Hazardous Ingredients: No components classified as hazardous according to GHS
Additional Additives: Minor content of stabilizers and preservatives to maintain emulsion stability; detailed data available via SDS request
Impurities: Trace levels, not expected to contribute to overall risk profile
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move affected individual to fresh air, provide rest, seek medical attention for symptoms such as dizziness or irritation
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash exposed skin with soap and plenty of water; for burns seek immediate medical help
Eye Contact: Flush gently with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth thoroughly, do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel; seek prompt medical evaluation
Most Important Effects: Possible mild irritation for susceptible individuals
Note to Physician: Symptomatic treatment; show this document when receiving professional healthcare
Fire-Fighting Measures
Suitable Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, foam, water spray, carbon dioxide
Unsuitable Extinguishing Media: Direct water jets may disperse hot, molten wax
Special Fire Hazards: Vapors from overheating may form combustible mixtures; molten wax can cause severe burns
Protective Equipment: Full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus for tackling fires
Combustion Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, small amounts of aldehydes and organic acids possible
Specific Procedures: Keep product containers cool using water spray to minimize vapor production
Accidental Release Measures
Personal Precautions: Isolate area, wear gloves and goggles, avoid walking on spilled product
Environmental Precautions: Prevent spillage from entering drains or open water; contain with sand, earth, or suitable absorbent
Cleanup Methods: Mechanical collection for large spills; absorb small amounts with inert material and dispose of following regulations; clean residue with water and detergent
Reference to Other Sections: Dispose materials according to local waste regulations; review protective measures before handling
Handling and Storage
Safe Handling: Use with adequate ventilation, avoid contact with eyes and skin, do not breathe vapors from molten material
Hygiene Practices: Wash hands after use, do not eat or drink in work area
Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area
Incompatibilities: Strong oxidizers, strong acids
Storage Temperature: Keep between 5°C and 40°C to prevent freezing or separation; do not expose to ignition sources
Other Precautions: Regularly inspect drums/containers for leaks or damage
Exposure Controls and Personal Protection
Exposure Limits: No established occupational exposure limits for main ingredients
Engineering Controls: Apply local exhaust ventilation for heated operations; ensure general work area ventilation
Personal Protective Equipment: Gloves (nitrile recommended), goggles or face shields for splash protection, long-sleeved work clothing
Respiratory Protection: Required during heating or if vapors/mists might form
Hygiene Measures: Change contaminated clothing after usage, wash thoroughly before breaks or after handling
Physical and Chemical Properties
Appearance: Milky white liquid, low to moderate viscosity
Odor: Mild, characteristic wax-like
pH: Ranges between 8.0 - 10.0
Freezing Point: Below 5°C
Boiling Point: Similar to water (~100°C, depending on formulation)
Flash Point: Not applicable for emulsion; above 200°C for dried wax
Solubility (Water): Fully miscible as an emulsion
Evaporation Rate: Similar to water
Density: 0.95 - 1.05 g/cm³ at 25°C
VOC Content: Negligible
Decomposition Temperature: Wax starts degrading above 250°C, producing fumes
Other Information: Forms film on evaporation of water component; stability against shear and temperature within use range
Stability and Reactivity
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage and handling
Reactivity: Not reactive under normal conditions
Hazardous Reactions: Possible reaction with strong oxidizing agents
Conditions to Avoid: Direct sunlight, heat above 40°C for prolonged periods, freezing conditions
Incompatible Materials: Strong oxidizers, acids, bases
Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, organic vapors formed on combustion or excessive heating
Toxicological Information
Acute Toxicity: Oral LD50 for polyethylene wax is above 2000 mg/kg (rats); low toxicity expected
Skin Corrosion/Irritation: Not corrosive; repeated or prolonged contact may cause mild irritation
Eye Damage/Irritation: May cause temporary irritation; not considered a serious eye hazard
Respiratory Sensitization: Fumes from hot wax may irritate respiratory tract
Carcinogenicity: No ingredients known to present a carcinogenic hazard
Other Effects: No evidence of mutagenic, teratogenic, or reproductive toxic effects at occupational exposure levels
Ecological Information
Ecotoxicity: Not expected to be acutely toxic to aquatic organisms at normal use levels
Persistence and Degradability: Polyethylene wax is not readily biodegradable, water and surfactant portions degrade more rapidly
Bioaccumulation Potential: Low, based on structural properties
Mobility in Soil: Sticky film may limit mobility, water phase may disperse; avoid release to natural waterways
Other Adverse Effects: Large spills can affect surface water quality due to film formation restricting oxygen exchange
Data Reference: Further data available on request, regulatory compliance based on regional legislation
Disposal Considerations
Disposal Methods: Dispose as industrial waste under local regulations; solidify residues before landfill
Container Disposal: Rinse thoroughly, recycle where possible, puncture or destroy to prevent reuse
Special Precautions: Do not discharge into sewers or natural waterways; avoid incineration without emission controls
Transport Information
UN Number: Not classified as dangerous goods under major transport regulations
Transport Hazard Class: Not regulated
Packing Group: Not applicable
Shipping Name: Polyethylene Wax Emulsion
Environmental Hazards: No marine pollutant marking required
Special Precautions: Secure containers to prevent leaks; protect from severe temperatures during shipping
Regulatory Information
Global Inventories: Components appear in most chemical inventories (TSCA, EINECS, DSL, etc.)
OSHA Status: Not hazardous under OSHA rules
SARA/Title III: Contains no regulated substances at reportable levels
National Regulations: Product meets requirements for labeling, transport, and disposal according to regional and federal guidelines
Chemical Safety Assessment: Assessment available for professional users upon request