spermaceti wax
A pearly white, fatty substance obtained from the
cavities of the head of the cachalot (sperm)
whale, Physeter macrocephalus, by hot water
treatment. Upon cooling, the wax separates out and
is pressed to remove some of the (sperm) oil. The
wax is then remelted and washed with a weak
carbonate solution before being cast into molds
for setting into blocks. It has a softening range
of 40 to 44° C. and is easily emulsified
with water. It is sometimes used as a lubricant
for leather bindings, usually in combination with
other materials in LEATHER DRESSINGS .
(195 , 291 )
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