APPLICATION OF ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES, PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND THERMAL ANALYSIS FOR DETECTING THE PRESENCE OF PARAFFIN IN BEESWAX (Apis mellifera Linnaeus)

This study analyzed the chemical composition of beeswax with different amounts of paraffin using FTIR, DSC, and physicochemical analyses. Samples with paraffin proportions ranging from 1.5% to 48% were examined. FTIR, combined with PCA and HCA, identified paraffin in the sample with 6.0% paraffin, showing the sensitivity of FTIR in detecting this additive in beeswax. The acidity index decreased as the paraffin content increased, attributed to the dilution of natural organic acids by paraffin. The saponification index was ineffective in detecting paraffin due to similarities with fatty acid esters in beeswax. DSC analysis revealed that higher paraffin content lowered the wax's melting temperature, consistent with paraffin's properties. Overall, FTIR, acidity index analysis, and DSC were successful in detecting paraffin in beeswax, providing a reliable approach to assess chemical composition and thermal properties. This is essential for ensuring the quality and authenticity of beeswax-based products.