by 
The Curious Bag
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Paraffin wax is made from the waxy hydrocarbons found in crude petroleum oil. The de-waxing process involves chilling the oil, which causes the wax to precipitate from it. Paraffin wax has many uses.
History
Discovered by Dr. Karl Ludwig von Reichenbach, paraffin began to be produced for commercial use in 1867. This was just a decade after the beginning of oil drilling.
Features
The melting point of paraffin is between 48° and 66° C (120° to 150° F).
Identification
Paraffin wax is usually white or colorless, and partially translucent. It consists of solid straight-chain, macro-crystalline hydrocarbons that grow in a spiral shape.
Benefits
This substance is used in a multitude of ways, in candle-making, cosmetics, food storage, wax paper, and as an electrical insulator. It is also used for hair removal and skin exfoliation treatments.
Fun Fact
On the heads of matchsticks, paraffin wax is used as a hydrocarbon fuel because it vaporizes easily.
Source:
UIC/TRL's Arterial Blockage in the Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries Project
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