Abstract:
The use of Environmental Acceptable Lubricants (EAL) in stern tubes has risen some uncertainties in the shipping sector due to their poor hydrolysis stability, bad pressure, and temperature-related viscosity properties and in some cases shear thinning properties when compared with conventional and pollutant mineral oils. The main goal of this project is to develop a more reliable and cost-effective EAL that can solve these main limitations. Two parallel approaches have been chosen to reach the main goal: Develop a new EAL based on the use of blown rapeseed oils (BRSO) with improved rheological properties and hydrolysis stability. Establishment of microbial-based formulations using selected microorganisms capable of producing a range of molecules that can be used as lubricant additives.