Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists in Illinois have developed a way to make a vegetable oil-based material using several natural compounds. This technology can be used in the formulation of biobased-industrial lubrication fluid, potentially replacing petroleum-based fluids.
One of ARS's compounds can be poured at cold temperatures—a property required by the lubrication industry. The compounds also have structures which have the potential to be used to form a new type of surfactant. Many other commercial lubricants and surfactants are available; however, ARS's biodegradable compounds are more environmentally friendly.
The technology has been shown to be usable on the small scale. Global lubricant demand is more than 30 million tons annually, and current surfactant use in the United States and Canada is more than 3 million tons per year.
ARS is seeking a cooperative research and development partner to further evaluate the compounds in this invention, as well as conduct extensive lubricant testing.
More info: Richard J. Brenner, CRADA.OTT@ars.usda.gov, 301-504-6905
