Dear Ariane,
Beeswax itself is flammable. Isoamyl acetate is just a bit easier to ignite. The KEY is to avoid any ignition source, as the fuel (compound) and oxygen parts of the “fire triangle” are already present. NO open flames should be used anywhere in the process! A steam bath or fully contained electric heating element can be used to melt the beeswax. Adding the acetate to the melt will result in some additional acetate vaporization, but the bulk of the liquid should mix into the wax with stirring. Pour into your final form molds before the wax cools below the melting point.
Isoamyl acetate in Beeswax
Beeswax has a relatively low melting point range of 62 to 64 °C (144 to 147 °F). If beeswax is heated above 85 °C (185 °F) discoloration occurs. The flash point of beeswax is 204.4 °C (400 °F). Density at 15 °C is 958 to 970 kg/m³.
Fire:
Isoamyl acetate Flash point: 25C (77F) (The lowest temperature at which a combustible liquid or solid produces sufficient vapor near its surface to generate an ignitable mixture with air). Autoignition temperature: 360C (680F) Flammable limits in air % by volume: lel: 1.0; uel: 7.5
Explosion:
Above flash point, vapor-air mixtures are explosive within flammable limits noted above. Sealed containers may rupture when heated. Sensitive to static discharge.
Fire Extinguishing Media:
Dry chemical, alcohol foam or carbon dioxide. Water may be ineffective.
Beeswax has a relatively low melting point range of 62 to 64 °C (144 to 147 °F). If beeswax is heated above 85 °C (185 °F) discoloration occurs. The flash point of beeswax is 204.4 °C (400 °F). Density at 15 °C is 958 to 970 kg/m³.
Work SAFELY! Keep the workplace clean and uncluttered. Remove all other flammable materials from the work area. DO NOT USE an open flame for heating! Have an appropriate (size and type) fire extinguisher accessible at all times. Wear protective clothing and eye goggles or a full face shield. Keep the isoamyl acetate containers tightly sealed at all times when not in immediate use.
Best regards,
Steven
