Tribological Behaviour of Palm Based Bio Grease with Various Additives and Thickeners
Keywords:
Tribological performance, Palm-based biolubricants, Additives and thickeners, Wear resistance, Biodegradable grease, Sustainable lubricationAbstract
This study explores the development and evaluation of palm oil-based lubricating greases using biodegradable and sustainable ingredients as an alternative to conventional petroleum-based products. Palm oil, a renewable and environmentally friendly base oil, is combined with materials like stearic acid, calcium hydroxide, glycerol monostearate (GMS), soy wax (SW), and hydroxyapatite (HA) to formulate greases with enhanced lubrication and ecological benefits. These components function as saponifiers, thickeners, and additives to improve consistency, stability, and tribological performance. Multiple formulations were prepared with varying concentrations and tested for rheological behavior, thermal resistance, mechanical consistency, and tribological properties using High-Frequency Reciprocating Rig and Four-Ball Wear tests. Results showed that greases containing hydroxyapatite and soy wax offered superior wear resistance and load-carrying capacity, while GMS improved texture and structural integrity. The optimized formulation demonstrated lower friction, better wear protection, and stable mechanical performance under demanding conditions. These bio-greases not only meet industry performance benchmarks but also offer environmental advantages such as biodegradability and reduced toxicity. The findings suggest that with the right formulation, palm oil-based greases can serve as high-performance, eco-friendly lubricants suitable for industrial use. This research supports further development and adoption of green lubrication technologies for sustainable engineering applications.
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