Life Sciences
Potential of algae-based biolubricant additives: extraction, application, and technical properties - from the plant to the technical product
The overall objective of the project was the substitution of mineral oil-based lubricant additives with microalgae-based compounds. The project aimed at identifying ingredients from microalgae, and further on proofing and demonstrating their potential for the use as lubricant additives in machining applications.
Funding
Funding Body
Federal Ministry of Food and AgricultureFunding Code
22025518Funding Amount
328.513,60 €Duration
01.04.2019 - 31-03-2022
Background and goals
The overarching aim of the proposed project is to replace mineral oil-based lubricant additives with a regenerative system based on components from algae. Many types of algae are able to synthesize equivalents to the substances used in lubricants, accumulate them in their cells and release them into their environment. These include, in particular, sulphur- and phosphorus-containing polysaccharides and protein structures. These capabilities are expected to provide an invaluable advantage in lubricant applications. The cultivation and harvesting of algae cultures is technically controlled and therefore poses no risk for implementation. In the project, organisms and their components with the corresponding properties are to be scientifically identified, their potential for use as lubricant additives demonstrated in technical trials and brought to application. Testing will be carried out in a scale-up from laboratory tests to a pilot plant application. At the same time, the environmental and toxicological properties of the algae-based lubricant additives will be tested in order to be able to provide a marketable product. The implementation of this idea is associated with the great opportunity of a mineral oil-reduced lubricant application, which offers the possibility of a significant conservation of resources. Due to the complexity of the problem, the project requires an interdisciplinary approach that utilizes the close cooperation and synergies between the engineering and natural sciences.