Abstract: Improved wax compositions suitable for the preparation of candles, as the sole fuel component or as an overdip applied to a paraffin or paraffin/fatty acid candle, are provided. The compositions of this invention are a blend of a paraffin, a C.sub.16 or C.sub.18 saturated fatty acid or mixture of said fatty acids, and an alpha-alkyl-branched carboxylic acid obtained by the free radical addition of a C.sub.20-44 alpha-olefin or alpha-olefin mixture and a carboxylic acid having 3 to 36 carbon atoms. A process for improving the surface characteristics of paraffin or paraffin/fatty acid candles by applying the present wax compositions thereto as an overdip and the resulting improved candles obtained therefrom are also disclosed.

Abstract: Improved wax compositions suitable for the preparation of candles, as the sole fuel component or as an overdip applied to a paraffin or paraffin/fatty acid candle, are provided. The compositions of this invention are a blend of a paraffin, a C.sub.16 or C.sub.18 saturated fatty acid or mixture of said fatty acids, and an alpha-alkyl-branched carboxylic acid obtained by the free radical addition of a C.sub.20-44 alpha-olefin or alpha-olefin mixture and a carboxylic acid having 3 to 36 carbon atoms. A process for improving the surface characteristics of paraffin or paraffin/fatty acid candles by applying the present wax compositions thereto as an overdip and the resulting improved candles obtained therefrom are also disclosed.

Abstract: Pillar candles which upon burning develop a decorative, aesthetically pleasing, free-standing shell having a filigree or lace-like pattern are provided. The candles consist of a fatty acid fuel composition, predominantly stearic acid and palmitic acid, and a 27-45 ply flat cotton wick. To obtain the desired decorative effect, the ratio of wick size to candle diameter is maintained at 12 to 19 plies per inch.

Abstract: Soap, combo or syndet bars are filled with particulate inorganic filler materials wherein the particles of the filler are coated with fatty acid which has reacted chemically with the filler.

Abstract: Highly useful amidoamine oxides are provided which are derived from polymeric fatty acids, particularly, dimer and trimer acids obtained by the polymerization of C.sub.18 unsaturated monocarboxylic acids. Aqueous solutions and dispersions of the amidoamine oxides of this invention can be used in a variety of formulations to impart desirable properties. They are particularly advantageous for use in cleaning formulations and shampoo products and when included in anionic and cationic laundry detergents have been found to soften the laundered articles.

Abstract: Highly useful amidoamine oxides are provided which are derived from polymeric fatty acids, particularly, dimer and trimer acids obtained by the polymerization of C.sub.18 unsaturated monocarboxylic acids. Aqueous solutions and dispersions of the amidoamine oxides of this invention can be used in a variety of formulations to impart desirable properties. They are particularly advantageous for use in cleaning formulations and shampoo products and when included in anionic and cationic laundry detergents have been found to soften the laundered articles.