HATCOL® 2906

Synthetic esters are chemicals that are manufactured via the chemical reaction between carboxylic acids and alcohols. Given the large toolbox of readily available raw materials, the properties of synthetic esters can be tailored to afford versatile and high-performing products.

Synthetic esters are used when their properties offer performance advantages versus other commonly used base oils. The properties of synthetic esters can be customized to fit the intended application. This explains why there are so many to choose from. For example, various esters provide excellent thermal stability, lubricity, high flash points, low pour points, and improved additive solubility.

Not every ester has all of these properties, but LANXESS has the expertise to help you choose the best one to fit your needs. Our Application Technology team is happy to support you with further information.

Since esters are a diverse class of chemicals, several classification schemes can be used.

At LANXESS, we divide our Hatcol® synthetic esters into the following types:

• Monoesters: Low viscosity, good lubricity, less volatile than a hydrocarbon of similar molecular weight.

• Diesters (adipates, sebacates): Good low-temperature properties, high viscosity indices, and biodegradability.

• Aromatic esters (phthalates, trimellitates): High temperature stability, low coking tendency, good miscibility with other base oil types.

• Polyol esters (based on hindered polyols): Excellent high-temperature stability; ideal for critical applications such as turbine oils, high temperature applications, and refrigeration compressor lubricants. They are available in a broad range of viscosity grades.

• Complex esters (polymeric structures): Access to higher viscosities while maintaining biodegradability and improving viscosity index (VI).

Synthetic esters generally outperform mineral oils in terms of thermal stability, oxidation resistance, evaporation loss, and biodegradability.

Synthetic esters are used in a wide range of applications, including:

• Aviation turbine engine oils: Excellent high-temperature stability combined with load-carrying ability
• Automotive lubricants: Improved additive solubility, shear stability, balanced seal compatibility, low evaporation loss
• Hydraulic fluids: High flash points and biodegradability
• Refrigeration compressor lubricants: Good compatibility (miscibility) with refrigerant gases, high temperature stability, long lifetime
• High temperature chain oils: Low volatility, high flash points, incidental food contact

Yes. Synthetic esters are often more environmentally friendly than mineral oils. Many esters are biodegradable and they can be made from renewable resources. Since synthetic ester formulations can provide longer lubricant lifetimes (longer drain intervals), less lubricant is required over the life of a piece of equipment, which reduces environmental impacts associated with excessive lubricant usage.

In case you need recommendations or guideline formulations for your specific applications, please contact our Application Technology team.