Anti-blooming agents are used to prevent the migration of certain components of a formulation to the surface of a material, resulting in unsightly surface defects such as blooming, frosting or haze. Microcrystalline wax is a type of petroleum-based wax that is commonly used as an anti-blooming agent in the manufacturing of plastic products.
When microcrystalline wax is used as an anti-blooming agent, it is typically added to a plastic formulation at a concentration of less than 5%. The wax helps to prevent the migration of certain components of the formulation to the surface of the plastic material by forming a barrier that traps the components inside the material. This helps to prevent the formation of surface defects and improves the overall appearance of the finished product.
In addition to its use as an anti-blooming agent, microcrystalline wax is also used as a processing aid in the production of plastics and as a component in other products such as adhesives, coatings, and polishes. It has a high melting point and is resistant to moisture, making it well-suited for use in products that are exposed to harsh environmental conditions.