There are three major characteristics that differentiate one polyethylene wax from another. They are I) Molecular weight, II) Degree and length of polymer branching, III) Monomer / polymer composition. Changing any of these factors will alter the physical characteristics of the polyethylene wax, such as viscosity, hardness, melt point, reactivity etc.
hom*opolymer polyethylene wax can also be functionalized by means of oxidation that adds acid and ester functional groups to the polyethylene wax. Oxidized polyethylene wax is polar and has different compatibility properties that polyethylene hom*opolymer. This functionality allows for emulsification of oxidized polyethylene wax and also increases compatibility with polar materials such as PVC.
