Novel insight into low-temperature performance of various poly(alkyl methacrylate) homopolymers in lube oil

In this particular study, shear stability, pour point temperature and cold cranking simulation viscosity of different poly (alkyl methacrylate) homopolymers were investigated. The successful synthesis of the homopolymers was verified using FTIR and 1H NMR spectroscopy. From the experimental results, it was perceived that shear stability and low-temperature performance of the modified oil are strongly dependent on alkyl length and synthesis reaction conditions. Higher shear stability was observed for the samples possessing shorter alkyl chain lengths. An increase in initiator concentration and reaction temperature led to a decrease in molecular weight and an increase in shear stability. Moreover, poly(alkyl methacrylate) homopolymers containing longer alkyl chain lengths represented better influence in the reduction of the size and cohesiveness of the crystal structure of paraffin wax. The results also revealed that the synthesized homopolymers with lower molecular weight play a greater performance in controlling friction at low temperatures.