IP 133: Determination of drop melting point of wax and petrolatum

Overview:

Scope

This method covers the determination of the drop melting point of petroleum wax. It is used primarily for petrolatums and other high viscosity waxes.

NOTE 1: Additional methods used for petroleum waxes are ASTM Method D87-IP 55, Test for Melting Point (Plateau) of Petroleum Wax, and Method ASTM D938-IP76. Test for Congealing Point of Petroleum Waxes, including Petrolatum. Results obtained may differ, depending on the method used. For testing pharmaceutical petrolatum, Method ASTM D938-IP 76 usually is used.

NOTE 2: Additives may considerably influence the drop melting point of petroleum waxes so that it does not correlate with the melting points determined according to other methods. Therefore, the method is not recommended for waxes which contain such additives.