Its use for a long time was restricted, since combustibility alone of all its useful properties was universally acknowledged as of market value. Time has shown, however, that paraffin wax can be used in cases where its characteristics of resistance to water, inertness, good electrical properties, etc., are invaluable, as a proofing agent for porous materials, in the manufacture of waxed paper and paper boards, as an external coating to wooden receptacles for the preservation of foodstuffs, as an ingredient of polishes and in the electrical industry for insulating purposes.