Low Volatility ZDDP Technology: Part 1 - Engines and Lubricant Performance in Field Applications

Newly developed, low volatility zinc dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP) technology significantly reduces the amounts of volatile phosphorus (P) species while retaining their antiwear protective behavior and antioxidant performances. In the past researchers gathered a variety of engine data supporting the hypothesis that P volatility can have a significant impact on catalytic converter efficiency, but corresponding field performance results were limited.

A recent field trial was conducted with New York City taxi cabs that provided extended sets of engine and drain performance parameters data. This trial compared side-by-side performance of oils formulated with conventional and low volatility ZDDPs. Following completion of the test, the extensive engine inspections and used oil analysis revealed excellent antiwear control and oxidation inhibition with both types of ZDDP technologies. Furthermore, the amount of volatile P produced by novel ZDDP that is capable of interacting and deactivating the three way catalysts was cut in half.