Frictional analysis on engine lubricant dilution by coconut oil and soybean oil derived biodiesel
Summary
This study investigates the tribological (frictional) behavior of engine lubricants diluted with biodiesel derived from coconut oil (CME) and soybean oil (SME). As concerns grow over fossil fuel depletion and greenhouse gas emissions, biodiesel is explored as a renewable, lower-emission alternative. However, its use in compression ignition engines can lead to lubricant dilution, potentially impacting engine wear and efficiency.
Using a pin-on-disc friction tester, the authors measured friction forces in SAE10W40 engine lubricant mixed with various concentrations (10–90% vol) of CME and SME biodiesels. The results showed that any level of biodiesel dilution increased friction compared to the undiluted lubricant, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the lubricant and increasing wear risks.
Use as a Green Chemistry Teaching Resource:
This article provides an excellent applied case study to illustrate multiple green chemistry principles in action. It can be used in undergraduate or graduate chemistry, engineering, or environmental science courses to:
Teach Principle #1 (Prevention): Highlight how proactive testing of biodiesel blends helps prevent unintended consequences such as engine damage due to lubricant dilution.
Explore Principle #7 (Use of Renewable Feedstocks): Demonstrate the use of plant-derived oils (coconut and soybean) as sustainable feedstocks for biodiesel production.
Apply Principle #9 (Catalysis): Discuss the role of the transesterification process and potential catalysts used in biodiesel synthesis.
Analyze Principle #10 (Design for Degradation): Open discussion on the environmental degradation pathways of biodiesel vs. petroleum diesel.
Teaching Formats:
Lab-to-classroom connection: Students can replicate simplified friction or viscosity tests using alternative fluids.
Green chemistry impact analysis: Students evaluate the lifecycle and environmental trade-offs of biodiesel vs. petro-diesel.
Case-based discussion: Facilitators can use this article to promote critical thinking around fuel formulation, engine design, and sustainability.
This resource supports interdisciplinary learning across green chemistry, mechanical engineering, and sustainable energy systems.
Full citation of journal article: Hamdan et al. (2018). Frictional analysis on engine lubricant dilution by coconut oil and soybean oil derived biodiesel. Jurnal Tribologi 18, pp.149-158.
Using a pin-on-disc friction tester, the authors measured friction forces in SAE10W40 engine lubricant mixed with various concentrations (10–90% vol) of CME and SME biodiesels. The results showed that any level of biodiesel dilution increased friction compared to the undiluted lubricant, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the lubricant and increasing wear risks.
Use as a Green Chemistry Teaching Resource:
This article provides an excellent applied case study to illustrate multiple green chemistry principles in action. It can be used in undergraduate or graduate chemistry, engineering, or environmental science courses to:
Teach Principle #1 (Prevention): Highlight how proactive testing of biodiesel blends helps prevent unintended consequences such as engine damage due to lubricant dilution.
Explore Principle #7 (Use of Renewable Feedstocks): Demonstrate the use of plant-derived oils (coconut and soybean) as sustainable feedstocks for biodiesel production.
Apply Principle #9 (Catalysis): Discuss the role of the transesterification process and potential catalysts used in biodiesel synthesis.
Analyze Principle #10 (Design for Degradation): Open discussion on the environmental degradation pathways of biodiesel vs. petroleum diesel.
Teaching Formats:
Lab-to-classroom connection: Students can replicate simplified friction or viscosity tests using alternative fluids.
Green chemistry impact analysis: Students evaluate the lifecycle and environmental trade-offs of biodiesel vs. petro-diesel.
Case-based discussion: Facilitators can use this article to promote critical thinking around fuel formulation, engine design, and sustainability.
This resource supports interdisciplinary learning across green chemistry, mechanical engineering, and sustainable energy systems.
Full citation of journal article: Hamdan et al. (2018). Frictional analysis on engine lubricant dilution by coconut oil and soybean oil derived biodiesel. Jurnal Tribologi 18, pp.149-158.
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