| abstract |
Waxes prepared from hydrogenated plant oils, such as castor and soybean, are formulated into aqueous ink and paper coating compositions. Ink compositions comprising these waxes and evaluated for their resistance to mar and abrasion achieved rub resistance and slip performance comparable to compositions utilizing conventional wax additives, which are generally derived from petroleum. The waxes in the inventive compositions have a low iodine value (ranging from approximately 2 to approximately 5), and a melting point between approximately 120 degrees to approximately 190 degrees F (Mettler Drop Point). These naturally derived waxes are used as an alternative to petroleum and synthetically derived waxes in the manufacture of inks and coatings for paper and cellulosic products. |