This specialized hydrocarbon wax is a meticulously crafted compound, predominantly comprising saturated straight-chain hydrocarbons. Each molecule within this wax is characterized by an impressively long carbon chain, varying in length from C18 to a substantial 90 or even more. This intricate molecular structure is the secret behind its remarkable high melting point, which ranges from a robust 58°C to an impressive 100°C.
Ozokerite or ozocerite, archaically referred to as earthwax or earth wax, is a naturally occurring odoriferous mineral wax or paraffin found in many localities. Lacking a definite composition and crystalline structure, it is not considered a mineral but only a mineraloid. The name was coined from Greek elements Όζω ozο, to stink, and κηρός keros, wax.