Dicarboxylic acid esters derivatives as a base for preparation of superior synthetic lubricants

Purpose This study aims to prepare entirely synthetic lubricant oils through the esterification of sebacic acid with different linear and branched alcohols, and to evaluate their physicochemical and lubrication properties. Design/methodology/approach Sebacic acid diesters were synthesized via esterification using four types of alcohols to produce diethyl sebacate, di-2-ethoxyethyl sebacate (DI2ETHES), dibutyl sebacate and di-2-butyl sebacate. The synthesized esters were characterized and assessed for lubricant-related properties, including flash point, pour point, viscosity index and oxidation stability, to determine the influence of alcohol structure on lubricant performance. Findings The results showed that the alcohol type and its structural configuration (linear or branched) had a significant impact on the flash point, pour point and oxidation stability of the esters. DI2ETHES exhibited a low pour point of −30°C, a high viscosity index and excellent resistance to temperature variation. The other esters showed poorer viscosity indices and higher pour points, indicating less favorable low-temperature performance. Originality/value This study highlights the role of alcohol molecular structure in tailoring the performance of sebacic acid-based esters as synthetic lubricants. The findings provide useful insights for the design of high-performance lubricants with improved low-temperature and thermal stability characteristics.