Characterization and formulation of an environment-friendly lubricant from Pongamia (Millettia Pinnata) oil using biodegradable additives

Abstract

Global efforts are being undertaken to increase the automobile industry's energy efficiency, reliability, and environmental friendliness. There are techniques to lessen the environmental issues caused by machines, such as using lightweight materials, exhaust gas after-treatment, less toxic fuel, and controlled combustion. To decrease friction and wear, especially in engines and drive trains, proper lubrication is necessary at the required operating conditions for an automobile's safe and dependable operation. Mineral, synthetic, and semi-synthetic oils have been employed as lubricants; however, their disposal damages the ecosystems. Concerns about environmental deterioration are also raised by the emissions of metal traces such as calcium, magnesium, iron particles, and zinc due to burning these lubricants. Due to the limited supply of petroleum crude oil, these lubricants' present and future prospects are dismal. There is a worldwide quest for an alternative lubricant due to the environment being harmed by use of petroleum-based lubricants.The different characterization of the lubricant properties for the neat Pongamia base oil (PO) includes assessments of chemical, oxidative, rheological, thermal, and tribological properties. The fatty acid profile of PO has to be estimated using Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The Oxidative stability of PO should be estimated using the Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test. The rheological characterization should be done by evaluating kinematic viscosity, viscosity index, and dynamic viscosity. Tribological properties are studied using a four-ball tester tribometer. The lacking properties of neat PO is identified and improved using suitable additives such as antioxidants, viscosity improver, pour point depressants, anti-wear additives, etc. The biodegradability test of the formulated oil is done using bacterial turbidity assay and toxicity is checked of the final formulated oil. An IC engine test is done to check the performance of the engine and wear using formulated lubricant from PO.