Alternative fuels pose challenges for lubricants

18 June 2008 11:30  [Source: ICIS news]

KUALA LUMPUR (ICIS news)--A move towards alternative fuels in emerging markets will lead to an increased importance for balanced chemistry in lubricant formulations, said David Lancaster of Lubrizol on Wednesday.

Speaking at the 2^nd ICIS Asian Base Oils and Lubricants Conference he said, "We are entering a time of rapid change in emerging market areas. Operating conditions are getting tougher. Questions are raised over biofuel introduction and extended drain intervals are all placing extra demands on lubricant use."

"Fuel quality is expected to deteriorate in the next five years as demand from China and India continues," said Lancaster adding that biodiesel is expected to grow by 7.5m tonnes by 2011 in southeast Asia alone.

Any change in fuel quality would affect lubricant performance. For instance, fuel dilution affects wear in the engine and ultimately its durability.

Another factor to be considered is oxidation, he said. "As we see the move to alternative fuels in emerging market areas we see the increased importance of balanced chemistry capable of resisting oxidation," he added.

"Ignoring oxidation leads to darkening of the oil with the formation of insoluble sludge and soot particles. Organic acids are also formed which give rise to corrosion in both ferrous and non-ferrous metals," he said.

"The phrase the right oil for the right application has never been more pertinent," he added.

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By: Shelley Kerr
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