Synthetic Ester Lubricants : Pt. I-Synthesis and Properties of 2,2-Dialkyl-1,3-Propanediol Esters

Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun-248 005

Manuscript received 22 February 1977, revised 1 February 1978, accepted 16 December 1980

Two series of polyol esters using 2-methyl-2-n-propyl-1,3-propanediol and 2,2-diethyl-1,3-propanediol and straight chain monocarboxylic acids of C₅ — C₂₂ carbon number were prepared. Three synthetic fatty acid mixtures obtained by the oxidation of wax were also used to prepare the corresponding mixed esters of two diols. The composition and basic properties like density, R.I. and viscosities at 100°F were determined. The densities of the esters decreased with increasing C-number of the fatty acids while the refractive indices increased. The viscosities also increased with increasing chain lengths of acids. Presence of unsaturation in acid chain showed much higher viscosity than with the corresponding saturated acid.