StefanIlarda

Gel Type Candle: A candle where the primary fuel is a liquid such as mineral oil, terpene type chemicals, or modified hydrocarbons that are not mineral oil based which may or may not contain organic functional groups; it also contains a chemical agent to increase the viscosity (thicken) to a point where the candle has a quasi-rigid property. (Extract from http://www.moyak.com/researcher/lifestyles/candles.html) Does anyone know the answer to the following questions: 1. What kind of ‘terpene type’ chemicals can be used to make Gel candles ? 2. Is Turpentine a type of ‘terpene chemical’ ? 3. What kind of ‘modified hydrocarbons’ (not mineral oil based) can be used to make Gel candles ? 4. What are organic functional groups & which ones can be used in making Gel Candles ? Stef

I've read somewhere that a 'GEL' like substance can be made of 95% mineral oil and 5% polymer resin. This resin is a powder/crystal that, when mixed with the mineral oil, transforms it to a more 'solid state'. This final 'solid state' is then heat melted & end prod. resembles 'transparent soap' or 'solid gel'. Can somebody pls. elaborate on this reaction between the 2 ingredients - is there heating required or adding of other ingredients etc,etc.. Stef.