[Other] Synthetic Methodologies of Ester-Based Eco-Friendly, Biodegradable Lubricant Base Stocks for Industrial Applications Copy

206The ever-growing energy demand and strict implementation of environmental norms worldwide has added impetus for the adoption of eco-friendly lubricants in various industrial sectors. It has become the primary driver for the acceptance of ester-based lubricants for major applications such as refrigeration compressor oil, transformer oil, cutting oil,and fire-resistant hydraulic oil. This led to the successful development of vegetable oil- and polyol-based ecofriendly and biodegradable ester lube oil base stocks in the last two decades. This chapter reviews the synthesis chemistry of vegetable oil- and polyol-based ester lubricant oils for meeting the stringent product specifications desired in the targeted application. The synthesis methodologies and the production processes are also discussed. This chapter also stresses future challenges of ester-based lubricant base stocks for meeting the potential demands in various industrial sectors.