Lubricants are primarily derived from petro-based (mineral) oils or bio-based oils (plant or animal sources). Petro-based lubricants, refined from crude oil, dominate over 80% of the market due to their stability, oxidation resistance, and affordability. Bio-based lubricants, extracted from natural sources, are biodegradable and renewable, making them environmentally friendly but often less stable and more expensive.
Vegetable-based oils (e.g., soybean, rapeseed) offer high lubricity and viscosity index but degrade faster. Mineral oils are widely used in industrial applications due to their oxidative stability and cost-effectiveness. Synthetic lubricants provide enhanced performance but at a higher price.
As sustainability grows in importance, bio-based lubricants may see broader adoption, with innovations exploring animal-based and other biological sources.
| Type | Source | Advantages | Disadvantages | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petro-Based | Crude oil | Stable, cost-effective, oxidation-resistant | Non-renewable, environmental concerns | Industrial machinery, gearboxes |
| Bio-Based | Plants/animals | Renewable, biodegradable, eco-friendly | Expensive, lower oxidation stability | Forestry, hydraulics, automotive |
| Synthetic | Man-made chemicals | High performance, durable | Expensive | Specialty industrial uses |
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