Seeking A Biodegradable Lubricant

A SpecialChem Client is seeking a biodegradable lubricant which inhibits corrosion, displaces moisture, while maintaining lubricant performance. The solution will be packaged in portable containers and used in multi-purpose applications.
On top of being biodegradable, it is a plus if lubricant is also bio-sourced.

Today, many “bio-lubes” based on vegetable oils can be found on the market. Their performances are often less effective than petroleum-based products. For instance, the shelf life of existing biodegradable solutions is usually limited and after 6 to 8 months the product starts decomposing and doesn’t perform as required.

There is a need for a versatile biodegradable lubricant to replace existing petroleum-based products. But the performance of this product should be comparable to petroleum-based products (see below for detailed specifications).

The SpecialChem Client is a lubricant manufacturer who is willing to extend its portfolio of portable lubricants for multi-purpose industrial usage with a biodegradable lubricant. The targeted markets are within the mining, marine and oil/gas exploration industries.

The expected US market is 10,000- 50,000 units sold (1 or 5 gallons, and aerosol container) within the first year and over 100,000 units in future years.

This lubricant should meet the following minimum requirements:

• Biodegradable: at least 60% of the sample is degraded within the test cycle. Some acceptable test cycle methodologies are listed here below:
• Standard Test Method for Determining Aerobic Aquatic Biodegradation of Lubricant (ASTM D-5864)
• CEC-L-33-A094 of the Coordinating European Council
• Modified Sturm Test of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD 301 B)
• Closed Bottle Test (OECD 301 D)
• Shake Flask Test (EPA 560/6-82-003)
• Lubricity:
• Maintaining lubricating properties up to 800 Lbs. (ASTM D-3233B)
• Falex pin and V Block >800 Lbs. (ASTM D-3233B)
• 4 Ball Weld Scar diameter
• Coefficient of friction
• Corrosion protection
• 30 hours until failure with a salt spray test (ASTM B-117)
• Penetration
• Proven performance comparable to multi-purpose petroleum-based lubricants
• Example: nail climb test results around 50 millimeters after 24 hours
• Water displacement on metal surface: 50% (standardized moisture displacement test)
• Shelf life: 2 years, in closed packaging (up to 5 gallon)

The SpecialChem Client is interested in a technology available in a foreign market and not yet commercialized in the US.
Formulas which can be prepared/blended in-house are also of interest.

Within the next 12 to 24 months.