Difference Between Wet And Dry Wax Papers

Wax paper is one of the most common household and industrial materials used in food packaging and several other applications. This paper is manufactured by the application of a thin layer of wax to a sheet of paper. There are several types of wax-coated papers and the two major types are dry wax paper and wet wax paper. 

Although, both these papers have similar appearances but are used for different purposes because of the difference in the manufacturing processes. To get a better understanding of this, let’s read the blog. 

What Is Dry Wax Paper?

Dry wax paper is the type in which the manufacturer applies wax to the paper and then heats it. This allows the wax to get absorbed into the fibre of the paper. The paper obtained from this process makes the surface feel dry when touched although wax is appropriately embedded within the paper. This paper is manufactured via the following steps: 

Base Paper Selection

High-quality bleached paper is chosen as the base of the paper. The selected paper must have high strength and a smooth surface so that wax can be applied appropriately. 

Wax Coating And Heat Treatment 

A thin layer of wax is applied to the paper on both sides and then the coated paper is heated. The application of heat causes the wax to penetrate the paper fibres. 

Cooling And Finishing

After heat treatment, the paper is cooled so that the wax can solidify within the fibres while leaving the surface of the paper dry. This gives a dryness thus we call it dry wax-coated paper. 

Characteristics Of Dry Wax Paper

The surface of the paper is non-stick and dry. As the wax is embedded in the paper, the wax does not transfer to other surfaces. Dry wax paper sheets are moderately resistant to moisture and grease. Moreover, the breathable nature of the paper allows the food to remain fresh for a longer time. 

What Is Wet Wax Paper?

In wet wax paper sheets, the wax remains on the surface of the paper and creates a glossy surface. The surface of wet wax-coated paper has a slightly sticky feel. As compared to dry paper, that paper is highly resistant to moisture and grease. This paper is manufactured via the following method:  

Base Paper Selection Wax Application 

The first step is the selection of high-quality paper that is not easy to tear. After this, a thick layer of wax is applied onto the surface of the paper. 

No Heating Process 

In this, the wax does not embed into the paper as no heat is applied and remains on the surface of the paper. The coated paper is cooled to get a glossy and smooth surface. 

Characteristics Of Wet Wax Paper

The surface area of the wet wax paper roll is glossy and slightly sticky. This paper provides an excellent moisture and grease resistance barrier which allows it to sufficiently prevent liquid penetration. This paper is not breathable and is stronger than that of dry wax paper roll. 

Wet Wax Paper Vs Dry Wax Paper

Resistance To Heat 

Both types of wax paper wrapping have moderate resistance to heat however due to the difference in the wax coating the difference in heat resistance among the two types is also significant. Wet wax-coated paper has a high moisture content which is why it can easily melt when exposed to heat. On the other hand, wet wax-coated paper has a lower moisture content therefore it can withstand heat a bit better. But it is always better to avoid using any type of wax paper when high heat is required as the wax coating can melt or even catch fire.

Application Differences Between Dry And Wet Wax Paper

Conclusion 

The customization of papers allows the brands to get different varieties of food wraps that make it easy for them to select the most potent option for themselves. Among the various types of custom food wrap comes dry wax paper and wet wax paper that have similar appearance but when you touch them one feels matte and the other has a slightly glossy surface respectively. Know the difference and select what’s suitable for you. You can contact Wax Papers Ca to get the paper of your choice.