Hydrogenated waxy olefin and process of making same

Abstract

This invention relates to a substantially hydrogen saturated hydrocarbon product formed by the hydrogenation of waxy polyethylene alpha-olefin having an average molecular weight of about 350 to about 900. The hydrogenation is conducted at pressures ranging from about 200 psig to about 1000 psig and at hydrogenating temperatures below about 750.degree. F in the presence of a conventional active hydrogenation catalyst. The resulting product may be utilized as a substitute for petroleum wax in the production of various compositions, such as carpet backing compositions, candle wax compositions, pressure sure sensitive tape, paper coating compositions, coatings for fruit, rust preventatives, cosmetics, and similar products. In such compositions the novel hydrogenated alpha olefins may be substituted for petroleum wax as customarily used or it may be used as an extender in any desired proportion with petroleum wax.