PAOÖle

PAOÖle, commonly referred to as PAO oils, are a family of synthetic hydrocarbon lubricants produced by the polymerization of alpha-olefin monomers followed by hydrogenation. The resulting base oils offer predictable viscosity across a wide temperature range and superior oxidative stability compared with many mineral oils.

Production typically involves oligomerization of alpha-olefins such as 1-decene, 1-dodecene, or mixed feeds, using catalysts based on Ziegler-Natta or metallocene systems. The resulting oligomers are then hydrogenated to saturate double bonds, yielding saturated hydrocarbons with a controlled molecular structure. This process creates a broad range of viscosities, from light to heavy base oils suitable for diverse lubricant applications.

Key properties of PAOÖle include a high viscosity index, low volatility, excellent low-temperature fluidity, and high flash points. They exhibit strong chemical and thermal stability and have low aromatic content and sulfur compared with many mineral oils, reducing sludge formation under high temperatures. Their performance is consistent over repeated thermal cycling, which supports long-drain intervals when paired with appropriate additives.

Applications cover base stocks for automotive engine oils, transmission fluids, gear oils, hydraulic fluids, and compressors, as well as industrial lubricants. They are favored for high-performance and extreme-temperature applications and are common in aviation and motorsport lubricants. PAOÖle enable precise formulation and predictable additive compatibility, contributing to reliable engine cleanliness and wear protection.

Advantages include consistent quality, narrow distillation ranges, and reliable oxidative and thermal stability, along with good compatibility with many elastomers. Limitations center on higher cost relative to mineral oils and limited biodegradability; compatibility with certain seal materials should be verified. PAOs were developed in the mid-20th century and became commercially important in the 1960s and 1970s as synthetic base stocks for lubricants.