A novel approach in developing environment-friendly bio-lubricant from coconut oil, mustard oil and its methyl esters

Abstract

The environmental issues caused by synthetic lubricant oils necessitate the need for an environment-friendly lubricant. In this study, a novel approach is proposed for developing an environment-friendly bio-lubricant by blending mustard oil, coconut oil and its methyl esters. Properties of the bio-lubricant are studied and compared with commercial ISO VG 32 oil. The best among various blends prepared are selected based on a decision matrix. The results revealed that this method helps in pour point depression and also in achieving excellent oxidative stability as compared to the base vegetable oil. The newly formulated oil has a pour point lower than that of commercial oil and is found to be highly biodegradable. The anti-wear characteristics of the oil are improved using boric acid, and the viscosity of the oil is improved using ethyl vinyl acetate for meeting the industrial standards. The newly formulated oil complies with industrial standards and can be used as biodegradable lubricant oil.