| Abstract: | Global economic and pollution concerns are having a major impact on how modern engine oils are being formulated. Modern engine oil specifications mandate reduced levels of phosphorus and sulfur to protect the efficacy of pollution control devices. In addition, modern engine oil must also be more fuel efficient than earlier generations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the impact of high priced gasoline and diesel fuel to the consumer. At the same time, oxidation, wear, and corrosion performance of the oil must not be compromised. Multifunctional additives are useful formulation tools that help formulators meet these tough new challenges. One such additive is the organo-borate ester/amide. Originally conceived as an organic friction modifier, this patented technology is really a multifunctional additive that addresses the global economic and pollution concerns. With the addition of boron, this unique commercial organic friction modifier also imparts antioxidancy, antiwear and anticorrosion properties to engine oil. In addition, the organo-borate ester/amide is compatible with pollution control devices because it does not contain sulfur or phosphorus. Work is on going to uncover additional beneficial properties of this chemistry. |
