AVOCADO SEED OIL AS AN ADDITIVE IN THE FORMATION OF GREASE LUBRICANT FROM SPENT ENGINE OIL
The improper disposal of spent engine oil poses a significant environmental challenge with far-reaching consequences. Traditional methods of discarding used engine oil often result in soil and water contamination, air pollution when combusted, and adverse effects on ecosystems. The magnitude of this problem is exacerbated by the sheer volume of used engine oil generated globally, contributing to the degradation of the environment on a substantial scale. The consequences of inadequate waste management practices are not confined to specific regions; they transcend borders and impact diverse ecosystems, necessitating a concerted effort to address the issue at its core. This research aims at addressing the problem of improper spent engine oil disposal by advocating for its reuse, by investigating the feasibility of utilizing avocado seed oil as an additive in the formation of grease made from spent engine oil, with a focus on assessing its impact on the properties of the resulting lubricant thus exploring the viability of avocado seed oil as an additive in the formation of grease. Grease was formulated by the homogenization of sodium soap thickener and avocado seed oil additive in spent engine oil for 2 hours at 100�C. Different compositions of oil-to-thickener and additive ratio were designed which are 90/10, 80/20, 70/30 and 60/40. Sample A, 90% base oil, 8% thickener and 2% avocado seed oil, Sample B, 80% base oil, 16% thickener and 4% avocado seed oil, Sample C, 70% base oil, 24% thickener and 6% avocado seed oil, Sample D, 60% base oil, 32% thickener and 8% avocado seed oil. Consistency analysis results shows an NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) number of Sample A,0, Sample B, 1 to 2, Sample C, 2 to 3, and Sample D, 3 to 4. Oil separation analysis results gives Sample A, 1.4%, Sample B, 0.6%, Sample C, 0.2%, Sample D, 0.0%. Dropping point analysis results gives Sample A, 40?, Sample B, 69?, Sample C, 98?, Sample D, 162?. Compared to commercially sold grease which has a consistency analysis NLGI number of 3 to 4, oil separation analysis result of 0.0% and dropping point analysis of 169?. Sample D with a dropping point of 162?, oil separation analysis of 0.0% and consistency analysis of 3 to 4 emerged as a standout formulation. Overall, the property of lubricant with increased percentage of avocado seed oil is promising, and this research as enabled us better understand its potential as a lubricant additive.
Authors : Idama, E.A., Muhammed, A.B. and Abubakar, A.M.
Category : Open Access Volume (Issue) : 11(1) Date Uploaded : 7th May 2025