Lube-Tech
These hybrid structures also possess excellent biodegradation profiles with values measured up to 95% over a 28-day period using OECD 301B test method. Their bio-based content is high (Table 2), and they are non-bioaccumulating (OECD 117) and non-toxic (OECD 201, OECD 202, OECD 203, OECD 236). Therefore, their environmental and physical properties make them an excellent choice for formulating modern bio-lubricants. Moreover, SPE base oils are accredited (NSF HX-1) for use as components in finished food grade lubricants (H1) intended for use in food processing plants where there is the potential of incidental food contact. In addition, some grades are on the EU Ecolabel LuSC-list and addition of the others are anticipated in Q1 2023. Inclusion on the LuSC-list means the oils have passed third party testing to meet strict biocontent, biodegradation, bioaccumulation, and sustainability requirements. Lubricant formulators can select LuSC-list approved components for use in their finished lubricant products in order for them to be considered Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) and meet Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (VIDA) requirements.
Compatibility and Solubility
In solubility studies, SPE base oils show excellent miscibility with API Group II-IV hydrocarbon base oils and common API Group V base oils such as synthetic esters and PAGs at ratios of 50:50 (v:v). Unlike conventional PAGs (derived from ethylene oxide and 1,2-propylene oxide), the excellent miscibility of SPEs in hydrocarbon base oils provides formulators with greater versatility in developing new formulated solutions.
An important characteristic of SPE base oils resulting from their polymer structure is the high level of material compatibility with the seals/gaskets and coatings/paints in equipment. Historically, operators were resistant to making the switch from petroleum- based oils to bio-based synthetic esters because of their poor compatibility with seals and gaskets
PUBLISHED BY LUBE: THE EUROPEAN LUBRICANTS INDUSTRY MAGAZINE
No.144 page 4
in equipment not designed for ester-based oils. Preliminary elastomer studies of SPE base oils on common elastomers such as acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (more commonly known as NBR) and fluorine kautschuk material (FKM) show good compatibility (Figures 3 and 4). Their compatibility with NBR elastomer shows mild swelling, and on FKM (Viton) they remain generally neutral over the one-week test duration.
Figure 3: NBR Elastomer compatibility at 60°C for 168 hours.
Figure 4: FKM Elastomer compatibility at 100°C for 168 hours.
Paint compatibility with SPE base oils was verified using Caterpillar Fluid Immersion Resistance Testing: Caterpillar 1E1952 [500 hours at 25±2°C] and John Deere Fluid Resistance Testing: John Deere JDM F17 [24 hours at 23±3°C]. Testing under both protocols saw no blistering, discolouration, delamination, or corrosion.
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