Improving Water and Oil Resistance in Paper Packaging Coatings with Wax Emulsion Technology

As the packaging industry transitions toward eco-friendly and recyclable materials, water-based coatings for paper packaging are gaining popularity. However, one challenge remains—achieving strong water and oil resistance without compromising printability or recyclability. Wax emulsion technology offers an effective and sustainable solution.

Polyethylene (PE) and carnauba wax emulsions are among the most widely used additives in paper and paperboard coatings. They enhance barrier properties by forming a fine, hydrophobic network across the surface. This network repels water, oil, and grease, making coated paper ideal for food packaging, cups, and takeout containers.

PE wax emulsions improve coating film density and reduce surface energy, ensuring liquids do not penetrate the paper fibers. Carnauba wax, a natural and renewable material, provides high gloss and additional water repellency while maintaining biodegradability—an attractive feature for sustainable brands.

In addition, wax emulsions help achieve smooth, uniform coating application and prevent blocking during stacking or heat sealing. They are compatible with acrylic, polyurethane, and styrene-butadiene latex binders, making them versatile for different paper formulations.

Wax emulsions also enhance the tactile feel of coated surfaces, offering a soft touch or semi-gloss finish depending on concentration. This is particularly useful for premium packaging materials that require both protection and visual appeal.

At Tianshi, we provide PE and carnauba wax emulsions optimized for paper packaging coatings. Our emulsions feature excellent stability, fine particle size, and strong compatibility with common coating systems, ensuring consistent water and oil barrier performance.

👉 Looking to develop sustainable and high-performance packaging coatings? Contact us for tailored wax emulsion solutions that deliver durability, safety, and environmental balance.