Differential scanning calorimetry characterization of process-induced variations in an ointment base

Preparation of an experimental emollient wax-gelled ointment base by two processes differing only in cooling rate produced material with markedly different physical properties. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that a major endotherm, possibly related to a phase change in a major triglyceride wax component, Synchrowax HGLC, was different in the two products. Mean enthalpies for this major endotherm for the two products were 7.36 J g-1 (s.d. = 0.49, n = 5) in slow cooled samples and 4.35 J g-1 (s.d. = 0.21, n = 5) in fast cooled samples. The degree of order of the Synchrowax HGLC in the ointment is suggested as being different in the two preparations and it is this that controls the physical properties of the ointment.