Biobased lubricants via ruthenium catalysis

Authors: Doll, Kenneth - Ken

Submitted to: Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 1/17/2017
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: The development of effective lubricants from natural oils is an ongoing mission. A few of the efforts have led to some promise, but many others have led elsewhere. An alternative approach to the direct use of natural oils may be needed. The drop-in replacement strategy allows industry to utilize monomers that are already proven, just with the proviso that they be obtained from natural sources. Oxygen can be removed from natural fatty acids by a technology called decarboxylation in an energy intensive endeavor. Getting this to work in a practical way has proven to be a challenge, which is where ruthenium catalysis comes into play. Ruthenium takes ordinary oleic acid and isomerizes it to a proximate isomer and then causes decarboxylation at a reduced temperature, compared to the noncatalyzed reaction. The product, bio-based olefins, can then be fed into established lubricant manufacturing practices. Additionally, the same ruthenium catalyst can be used to create a phosphonostearate lubricant additive with improved properties. These new approaches will be needed to get back on the road to mission accomplished.