Detergents and dispersants

Abstract

Lubricant detergents are metal salts of organic surfactants giving corrosion protection, deposit prevention and other formulation performance enhancements. Overbased detergents incorporate colloidal basic inorganic components which neutralize acidic contaminants. Degrees of overbasing, size and form of component affect detergent performance. Sulphonate-, phenate-and salicylate-type detergents incorporating calcium carbonate are the most widely used. Choices of detergent type and level are highly dependent on specific applications, and combinations are needed to optimize performance and cost. Dispersants stabilize contaminants during a lubricant's lifetime and ameliorate negative effects of viscosity increase, wear, filter plugging, etc. Dispersants contain polar head groups with non-polar side chains with a range of molecule types available, reflecting formulation needs for many applications of different performance. Enhanced future lubricant specifications and new engine hardware require development of innovative dispersant technologies. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.