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Lower hazard needs and economic benefits The shift towards alternative thickeners is occurring due to the challenges faced by lithium hydroxide, particularly its reclassification in Europe as a reprotoxic category 1A substance for lactation and foetal development. This reclassification could lead to restrictions on its use in the coming years and immediate limitations on its handling and storage in production facilities. While most grease manufacturers do not anticipate changes to the labelling of final lithium-thickened greases, uncertainty remains regarding market reactions. It is possible regulatory bans on lithium for end customers may be implemented.
Additionally, the high volatility of lithium hydroxide’s supply and market pricing poses a challenge. In the last five years alone, lithium hydroxide prices have ranged from €8/kg to €90/kg1
.
From a production standpoint, urea-based thickened greases offer several advantages over lithium- thickened greases. They do not require direct water usage, operate at lower peak temperatures, and necessitate less production time. Consequently, this results in a shorter production cycle with reduced energy requirements. Figure 1 displays research completed by The Lubrizol Corporation, showing the notable difference in diurea greases requiring less time and energy to be produced compared to Lithium.
oxidation resistance, and long service life. These attributes not only ensure reliable and efficient motor operation but also reduce maintenance needs, making urea-based thickened greases an optimal choice for the evolving demands of modern electric motor applications.
The longer service life and extended relubrication intervals of urea-based thickened grease translate to reduced maintenance frequency and lower lubricant consumption. Data across various applications highlight the exceptional performance of urea-based thickened grease, especially in the automotive sector, where its extended lifespan has enabled longer warranty periods for more vehicle systems. This makes urea-based thickened grease an attractive option for industries looking to optimise their lubrication processes while adhering to regulations.
The focus on advancing capabilities The future of urea-based grease looks promising, with ongoing developments aimed at enhancing its properties and expanding its application capabilities. Innovations in the formulation and production processes are expected to improve both its performance and environmental impact, in response to evolving regulations. For example, the development of liquid concentrated diurea products will help minimise the handling of certain hazardous urea-based raw materials, such as isocyanates, in production facilities.
Figure 1: Laboratory-Scale Temperature vs. Time During Production of Various Thickeners. (Lubrizol internal research)
Lubrizol internal research Urea-based greases: paving the way to electrification With global markets striving to become increasingly electrified, the lubrication of electric motors will help pave the way for the development of more use cases of urea-based thickened greases. Urea-based thickened greases are particularly well-suited for electric motors due to their high-temperature stability, excellent
14 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.186 APRIL 2025
Consider the structural stability and oxidation resistance of urea-based grease as an opportunity to rethink the reliability of traditional lithium-based thickeners. Take the next steps to leverage the benefits of switching to urea-based grease and see the results enhance applications in the lubricant market.
www.lubrizol.com
360.lubrizol.com
1Lithium 2017-2023 Historical Prices (recalculated from lithium carbonate), Trading Economics
www.tradingeconomics.com/commodity/lithium
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