Achieving Enhanced Oxidative Stability for Polyalphaolefins

This study presents results from a new process to enhance the oxidative stability of polyalphaolefins (PAO). PAOs are known to respond well to oxidation inhibition by the actions of antioxidants. However, research suggested an improvement could be achieved. A proprietary process was developed and commercialized to improve the oxidative stability of PAOs. The Rotary Bomb Oxidation Test (RBOT) was used to measure the oxidative stability of the polyalphaolefins before and after installation of the new commercial process. In addition to the RBOT, oxygen uptake measurements and Pressurized Differential Scanning Calorimetry studies were evaluated. The improvements were observed in all three comparisons. The results show averaged improvements over 40% in the oxidative stability in various products without reducing any other product properties.