Process for conversion of fatty acids to synthetic lubes.

摘要

Irvine, CA (US)-based Biosynthetic Technologies has introduced a novel continuous-flow process for the production of synthetic lubricants from animal- or plant-based fatty acids that contain high amounts of oleic acid. In the process, the fatty acid feed material is subjected to an oligomerization reaction in the presence of an acid catalyst. The oligomerized product is distilled and then subjected to an esterification step to obtain the synthetic lubricants, which are alternatives to Group IV and V lubes. The synthetic lubes are claimed to have high hydrolytic and oxidative stabilities along with low evaporative loss. The lubes are also said to be bio-degradable and non-toxic, lessening their environmental impact. When utilized in motor oils, these synthetic lubes have been shown to improve engine life by minimizing the accumulation of sludge and varnish deposits as these synthetic lubes are polar compounds, which are better at solubilizing sludge and thus preventing deposits from forming.