How to Make Soy Wax from Soybeans

Understanding Soy Wax

What is Soy Wax?

Soy wax is a natural wax derived from the oil of soybeans. After harvesting, the beans are cleaned, cracked, de-hulled, and rolled into flakes. The oil is then extracted from these flakes and hydrogenated to convert some of the fatty acids in the oil from unsaturated to saturated. This process changes the melting point of the oil, making it solid at room temperature and perfect for candle making.

Benefits of Using Soy Wax

Soy wax offers numerous benefits over traditional paraffin wax. Here are some key advantages:

• Eco-Friendly: Soy wax is biodegradable and derived from a renewable resource, making it a sustainable option for candle making.
• Clean Burning: Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin wax, producing less soot and reducing indoor air pollution.
• Longer Burn Time: Candles made from soy wax tend to burn longer due to the slower burning time of the wax.
• Easy to Clean: Spills can be cleaned up with soap and water, unlike paraffin wax which can be more challenging to remove.
• Excellent Scent Throw: Soy wax holds fragrance well, making it ideal for scented candles.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Soybeans

The primary ingredient for making soy wax is, of course, soybeans. It’s important to choose high-quality soybeans to ensure the best results. Look for beans that are free from pesticides and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to maintain the purity and eco-friendliness of your wax.

Equipment List

To make soy wax from soybeans, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Soybean Press or Oil Extractor: This is used to extract oil from the soybeans. There are various models available, from manual presses to electric extractors.
• Hydrogenation Equipment: This includes a hydrogenation reactor and catalyst, necessary for converting the soybean oil into a solid wax form.
• Heating Source: A stove or hot plate to heat the soybean oil during the extraction and hydrogenation processes.
• Thermometer: To monitor temperatures accurately during the various stages of wax making.
• Containers: Heat-resistant containers for holding the extracted oil and the finished wax.
• Filter Cloth: For filtering impurities from the soybean oil after extraction.
• Safety Gear: Gloves, goggles, and protective clothing to ensure safety during the process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Soy Wax

Preparing the Soybeans

1. Cleaning: Start by thoroughly cleaning the soybeans to remove any dirt or impurities. This ensures the purity of the oil extracted.
2. Drying: Once cleaned, dry the soybeans completely. This can be done by spreading them out in a single layer and allowing them to air dry or using a dehydrator.
3. Cracking and De-hulling: Use a soybean mill or similar equipment to crack the soybeans and remove the hulls. This process helps in the efficient extraction of oil.

Extracting Soybean Oil

1. Heating: Preheat the soybean press or oil extractor. Ensure that the equipment reaches the recommended temperature for optimal oil extraction.
2. Pressing: Place the prepared soybeans into the press or extractor. Operate the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions to extract the oil from the beans.
3. Filtering: Once the oil is extracted, filter it through a fine filter cloth to remove any remaining solid particles or impurities.

Hydrogenation Process

1. Preparing the Reactor: Set up the hydrogenation reactor and add the filtered soybean oil. Ensure all safety protocols are followed as this process involves high temperatures and pressure.
2. Adding Catalyst: Introduce the hydrogenation catalyst to the reactor. The catalyst helps in converting unsaturated fats into saturated fats, solidifying the oil.
3. Hydrogenation: Heat the oil to the required temperature and maintain it under controlled pressure. The hydrogenation process usually takes several hours.
4. Cooling: Once the hydrogenation is complete, allow the reactor to cool down gradually before safely removing the hydrogenated oil, which is now solid at room temperature.

Cooling and Solidifying the Wax

1. Pouring: Pour the hydrogenated oil into moulds or containers where it will cool and solidify.
2. Cooling: Allow the oil to cool at room temperature or in a refrigerator for faster results. Ensure it is completely solidified before use.
3. Demoulding: Once solidified, remove the wax from the moulds. Your soy wax is now ready to be used for candle-making or other applications.

Tips and Tricks for Best Results

Choosing the Right Soybeans

• Quality: Select high-quality, organic soybeans to ensure the best results. Organic soybeans are free from pesticides and GMOs, making your wax more eco-friendly.
• Freshness: Use fresh soybeans for optimal oil extraction. Older beans may have reduced oil content and affect the quality of the wax.

Maintaining Proper Temperatures

• Consistent Heat: Maintaining consistent temperatures during oil extraction and hydrogenation is crucial. Fluctuating temperatures can lead to incomplete hydrogenation and affect the wax quality.
• Monitoring: Use a reliable thermometer to monitor temperatures throughout the process. Small deviations can significantly impact the final product.

Storing Your Soy Wax

• Cool and Dry: Store your finished soy wax in a cool, dry place. Exposure to heat and moisture can degrade the wax quality.
• Airtight Containers: Use airtight containers to prevent contamination and extend the shelf life of the wax.
• Labelling: Label your containers with the date of production. This helps in keeping track of the wax’s age and ensures you use the oldest stock first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Use Any Type of Soybeans?

While you can technically use any type of soybeans to make soy wax, it’s best to choose high-quality, organic soybeans. Organic soybeans are free from pesticides and genetically modified organisms (GMOs), which ensures that your wax is as pure and eco-friendly as possible. Using non-GMO soybeans also aligns with the sustainability goals of many homemade candle makers.

How Long Does It Take to Make Soy Wax?

The time required to make soy wax can vary depending on the equipment used and your familiarity with the process. On average, the entire process from preparing the soybeans to cooling and solidifying the wax can take several hours. Extracting the oil alone can take about 1-2 hours, while hydrogenation can take another few hours. Proper preparation and planning can help streamline the process and make it more efficient.

Is Homemade Soy Wax Safe for Candle Making?

Yes, homemade soy wax is safe for candle making as long as it is properly made and purified. Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin wax, producing less soot and fewer toxins. Ensure that the soybeans used are free from harmful chemicals and that the wax is filtered and processed correctly. This will result in a high-quality, safe product for candle making.

Conclusion

Benefits of Making Your Own Soy Wax

Making your own soy wax comes with numerous benefits:

• Eco-Friendly: Homemade soy wax is biodegradable and derived from renewable resources, making it a sustainable option.
• Cost-Effective: Producing your own wax can be more cost-effective in the long run, especially if you make candles regularly.
• Customisation: You have full control over the quality and characteristics of the wax, allowing for customised candle properties such as scent and burn time.
• Satisfaction: There is a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction in creating your own candle wax from scratch.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement

The journey to make your own soy wax from soybeans can be incredibly rewarding. It not only allows you to create eco-friendly products but also gives you the freedom to experiment and perfect your candle-making skills. With patience and practice, you can produce high-quality soy wax that enhances your candle-making projects and supports a sustainable lifestyle.

Additional Resources

Where to Buy Soybeans and Equipment

• Local Organic Farms: Visit local organic farms or farmers’ markets to purchase high-quality soybeans directly from growers.
• Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Etsy, and speciality organic stores offer soybeans and necessary equipment for wax making.
• Specialty Craft Stores: Many craft stores carry equipment for candle making, including presses and filters.