Back close

Bio-based additives in lubricants: addressing challenges and leveraging for improved performance toward sustainable lubrication

Publication Type : Journal Article

Publisher : Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Source : Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery

Url : https://doi.org/10.1007/s13399-025-06563-z

Campus : Amritapuri

School : School for Sustainable Futures

Year : 2025

Abstract : The growing demand for sustainable technologies placed bio-lubricants at the forefront of innovation in offering greener alternatives to traditional petroleum-based lubricants. Lubricants are critical for reducing wear and friction in machinery. However, traditional petroleum-based lubricants have serious environmental drawbacks. The growing emphasis on eco-friendly solutions has led to increased interest in renewable bio-lubricants derived from vegetable oils. These bio-lubricants are bio-degradable and renewable, but they face challenges such as high viscosity, poor low-temperature performances, and oxidative instability. The present review investigates the role of bio-based additives, in overcoming these challenges. These natural additives enhance critical lubricant properties, including viscosity, thermal stability, wear resistance, and oxidative stability, making bio-lubricants more viable. The shift from traditional mineral oil–based lubricants to bio-based alternatives is driven by regulatory pressures and environmental concerns. By focusing on sustainable bio-based additives, this analysis highlights a pathway toward improved lubricant performance, reduced carbon footprints, and compliance with environmental regulations. Despite these advancements, hurdles remain, such as inconsistent performance, scalability issues, and a lack of governmental support, which hinder widespread adoption. The study stresses the importance of ongoing research and development, collaboration between industry and environmental groups, and the establishment of standards to support the transition to green lubrication technologies. This review serves as a foundation for future research aimed at developing eco-friendly lubricants that minimize environmental impact and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Cite this Research Publication : Pranav Prasannakumar, Sabarinath Sankarannair, Geena Prasad, Hari Krishna P. H., Pranav S., Vivek P., Sidharth S., Ragavanantham Shanmugam, Bio-based additives in lubricants: addressing challenges and leveraging for improved performance toward sustainable lubrication, Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, Springer Science and Business Media LLC, 2025, https://doi.org/10.1007/s13399-025-06563-z

Admissions Apply Now