Synthesis of novel alkoxylated triacylglycerols and their lubricant base oil properties

Development and application of bio-based fluids in industrial and automotive sectors are rapidly increasing due to their non-toxic and biodegradable character unlike mineral oil-based products. Synthetic lubricant base fluid with improved high and low-temperature stability was prepared by chemical modification of epoxidized soybean oil (ESBO). The reaction was carried out in two-steps: (i) synthesis of dihydroxylated soybean oil from ESBO with HClO4, (ii) reaction of acetic, butyric and hexanoic anhydride with the dihydroxylated product. The composition of the reaction products were confirmed by NMR and FTIR analysis. Chain length variation of the anhydrides used in the synthesis resulted in base fluids with different physical and chemical properties. Low-temperature stability was excellent for hexanoic anhydride derivative. When compared with SBO, thermal and oxidative stabilities were improved. Viscosity, volatility and other lubricant base oil properties were evaluated qualitatively. Bio-fluids based on this chemical modification offer great potential for the development of industrial fluids and products based on such fluids. © 2004 Published by Elsevier B.V.