We have all seen fascinating candles in glass cups or vases, inside of which were unexplored depths of the sea or fantastic reliefs, or glasses, as if filled with champagne, wine or beer and many other.
The creation of candle gel allows your imagination to flow infinitely. Candle gel contributes to it, one of the main advantages of which is transparency. What is candle gel?
Candle gel (gel wax) is a transparent jelly like substance, consisting of three types of mineral oils of different viscosity and polymer to create a gel structure. The approximate percentage of these two elements is 95% mineral oil and 5% polymer resin. The gel is safe and environmentally friendly. The melting point of the gel is only 70-90 degrees. The patent on candle gel belongs to Penreco company.
There are three "classes" of gel depending on the density — high class (HP), middle class (MP) and low class (LP). High class has a high cost, but has a more rigid consistency, which is convenient when transporting finished candles. The most popular is the middle class, which has sufficient hardness and is more affordable.
Advantages of candle gel:
- safety and security. When burning, the gel does not emit harmful products and does not form carbon deposits.
- slow burn. The gel burns much longer than paraffin or wax.
- brightness. The flame of gel candles is brighter than paraffin or wax candles.
- no odors when burning. Gel during combustion does not emit any odors, which allows it to aromatize.
- transparency. And of course the transparency, through which it is possible to create unimaginable decors inside candlesticks.
- no shrinkage. Unlike wax and paraffin, when cooling the gel does not form cavities and holes, in consequence of which no correction of finished candles after complete cooling is needed.
Safety measures when working with gel.
Creating candles: the gel should not be overheated over 110 degrees, which can lead to smoke and turbidity of the gel. Avoid contact with water — the gel will become cloudy. To correct turbidity from overheating is possible only by addition of dye. When working on an open fire, make sure that the gel does not hang from the edge of the dish, because it can ignite.
Using gel candles: when using gel candles, you should follow the same safety rules as with wax or paraffin candles. A burning candle can cause fire, especially if the candle is poured into a vessel that does not retain heat. Do not leave a candle unattended near children.
Gel candles often serve as gifts, so do not forget to share the safety rules with those with whom you share your love for candles.
See what incredible candles can be made of candle gel. This is not just a candle, but an element of decor!