Polyalphaolefinen

Polyalphaolefins, or PAOs, are a family of synthetic hydrocarbon base oils produced by the controlled oligomerization of alpha-olefins such as 1-decene and 1-dodecene. The resulting polyalphaolefins are saturated paraffinic hydrocarbons with predominantly branched chain structures and essentially no heteroatoms. Their production typically involves catalytic polymerization, using Lewis acids, metallocene, or other modern catalysts, which yields products with relatively narrow molecular weight distributions.

PAOs are mainly used as synthetic base oils for lubricants. They offer advantages over conventional mineral oils, including high viscosity index, low volatility, excellent oxidative and thermal stability, and favorable low-temperature properties. The resulting lubricants tend to have better pour points, broader usable temperature ranges, and improved oxidation resistance, contributing to longer service life and cleaner operation in many applications. They are available in a range of viscosity grades, commonly referred to as PAO-4, PAO-6, PAO-8, and similar designations, which denote different kinematic viscosities at operating temperatures.

Applications include automotive engine oils, gear oils, hydraulic fluids, and industrial lubricants where high performance and reliable temperature performance are required. PAOs are often used in formulations that aim to meet strict environmental or performance specifications, and they can be blended with other base oils or optimized with additives to tailor properties.

Limitations include higher cost relative to conventional mineral oils and the need for compatibility considerations with certain elastomers or additive packages in some formulations. Despite these considerations, PAOs remain valued for their stability, performance, and extended service life in demanding lubrication applications.