While polyglycols and synthetic esters are commonly used as synthetic base oils for biodegradable lubricants, the emergence of novel feedstocks, such as algae-derived oils and genetically modified (GM) oilseeds, is garnering increasing industry attention for the development of next generation biobased lubricants. In recent years, leading companies such as TotalEnergies, Eneos and Adnoc have made progress in launching and starting production of biobased industrial lubricants. TotalEnergies launched BIOLIFE which is based on renewable isoalkanes. These products are obtained from 100% certified vegetable origin feedstocks. Eneos, Chevron, Kixx (GS Caltex) and Adnoc among others have collaborated with companies like Novvi to launch renewable or biobased lubricants. Advancements in biobased additives are being driven by leading chemical manufacturers such as Arkema and DIC Corporation. DIC, for instance, offers KS-519; an algae oil-based, sulphurised extreme pressure additive designed for use in metalworking fluids and greases. This additive not only delivers high performance but also contributes to carbon emission reductions in industrial operations.
As far as end users are concerned, electric batteries are reshaping both the automotive and manufacturing industries. Continued innovation in battery technologies and thermal management systems is driving substantial improvements in performance, efficiency, and overall reliability. Battery thermal management is achieved today by indirect cooling with air or water/glycol mixture or by immersion cooling (direct cooling). The key requirements driving innovation include fast charging, battery weight management/optimum energy density, carbon footprint reduction, and reduction of maintenance costs. Synthetic esters are preferred over hydrofluoroether products as battery coolants. New technologies include biodegradable engineered fluids based on blends containing dielectric oil. Nanofluids are being researched and used to improve battery weight management and power density. Conventionally, single phase immersion cooling has been adopted by Rimac, Faraday Future, Xing Mobility and John Deere among others. Players like Carrar are focusing on two phase, suggesting that it provides even better thermal performance, lower amounts of fluid, and lower system pressure. Suppliers partner with end users to continuously innovate and customise solutions. Players like Castrol (partnering with XING Mobility) and FUCHS Lubricants (partnering with Exoes), are
just a few examples. M&I Materials launched novel, biodegradable dielectric fluid called MIVOLT, which allows for faster charging than conventional systems. In 2024, Shell Lubricants acquired the MIDEL and MIVOLT businesses from M&I Materials Ltd.
Alongside electric batteries, hydrogen fuel production plays a critical role in advancing decarbonisation efforts in the manufacturing and automotive sectors. Coolants and lubricants for electrolysers and other hydrogen applications are required to have high thermal stability and corrosion resistance. Materials, like dielectric fluids and anti-corrosion additives, are more established, while newer materials such as graphene-based additives and bio-based lubricants are in early or intermediate stages of adoption. Krytox (Chemours) has developed hydrogen safe lubricants, especially for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen production. These fluids are formulated with a synthetic perfluoropolyether fluid (PFPE fluid), and the greases contain polytetrafluoroethylene thickeners (PTFE thickeners) for enhanced chemical and thermal stability.
Figure 1: Innovations impacting the industrial lubricants market Conclusion
As transformative technologies reshape the industrial lubricants market, the shift towards integrated, value driven solutions is becoming increasingly evident. Lubricant manufacturers are engaging in long-term collaborations with technology partners, specialty product manufacturers, and end users, driving end-to-end lube management for customers. With growing demand for lubricant as a service models, lubricant suppliers are evolving from product vendors to strategic partners, offering bundled services that enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and support sustainability goals. Looking ahead, the concept of lubricant as a package is set to define the next chapter of industry evolution.
www.frost.com
LUBE MAGAZINE NO.187 JUNE 2025
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