Comb and propolis waxes from Brazil (states of São Paulo and Paraná)

Abstract

Samples of propolis and comb waxes of Apis mellifera were analyzed. Monoesters predominated, followed by hydrocarbons. The constituents were identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Wide variations in the patterns of hydrocarbons, acids and alcohols of the esters were found. Hydrocarbon chains cover the range C23 - C35, C27 and C31 alkanes predominating. The main carboxylic acid was C16:0, followed by C18:0 and C18:1. The alcohols were predominantly saturated n-homologues, ranging from C24 to C32, C30 being the most abundant, followed by C24. No differences were found to allow a distinction, suggesting a common origin for both wax sources.

Keywords

• propolis wax
• beeswax
• Apis mellifera