A lubricant composition

Abstract

The present invention relates to a lubricant composition comprising a polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component in an amount in the range of from 30 wt.% to 70 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, and an alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) in an amount in the range of from 15 wt.% to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition. The present invention also relates to the lubricant composition that is used in an axle lubricant.

Description

A LUBRICANT COMPOSITIONFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a lubricant composition and to an axle lubricant comprising the lubricant composition. It also relates to the use of the lubricant composition for reducing friction between moving surfaces; to a method of enhancing the friction modification properties of a lubricating composition in the lubrication of a mechanical device; and to a method of preparing the lubricant composition.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Lubricant compositions are typically required to have a number of performance characteristics associated with the lubricant composition itself and / or with the performance of the equipment in which the lubricant composition is to be used (eg., vehicles). Recently, market forces and governmental regulations have placed a renewed emphasis on fuel efficiency for vehicles and reduction of Green House Gas (GHG) emissions, e.g. CO2 emissions.

[0003] Conventional lubricants do not have the desired kinematic viscosity, viscosity index, and pour point. Thus, the conventional lubricants are less fuel efficient.

[0004] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a lubricant composition with desired kinematic viscosity, high viscosity index, and low pour point. Another object of the present invention is to provide a lubricant composition with improved fuel efficiency and reduction in CO2 emissions.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Surprisingly, it has been found that the lubricant composition of the presently claimed invention has the desired kinematic viscosity, high viscosity index, and low pour point which improves fuel efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions.

[0006] Thus, in as aspect, the presently claimed invention is directed to a lubricant composition comprising a polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component in an amount in the range of from 30 wt.% to 70 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition; and an alkoxy lated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) in an amount in the range of from 15 wt.% to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition(I), wherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 90, n is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, n’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, k is an integer in the range of > 2 to < 30,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear or branched, alkyl residue having 6-28 carbon atoms,R2 denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3 denotes a hydrogen atom or -CH3, whereby the concatenations denoted by k are distributed to form a block polymeric structure and the concatenations denoted by p, p’, n, n’, m and m’ are distributed to form a block polymeric structure or a random polymeric structure, wherein the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 110 cSt to 125 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 1000 cSt to 1200 cSt, as measured in accordance with ASTM D445.

[0007] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to an axle lubricant comprising the lubricant composition as mentioned herein.

[0008] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a use of the lubricant composition as defined herein for reducing friction between moving surfaces.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of enhancing the friction modification properties of a lubricating composition in the lubrication of a mechanical device comprising formulating said lubricating composition with at least one alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined hereinabove.

[0010] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of preparing the lubricant composition as defined herein, wherein the method comprises mixing of a polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component as defined herein, and an alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined herein in a mixing vessel.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0011] In the figures, the abbreviations LC 1 , LC 2, and LC 3 denotes Lubricant composition 1, Lubricant composition 2, and Lubricant composition 3, respectively. Further, the abbreviation CL A denotes commercially available Comparative lubricant A.

[0012] Figures la, lb, and 1c are bar graphs illustrating fuel efficiency for the axle lubricant comprising the lubricant composition of the present invention in City, Highway, and (New European Driving Cycle) NEDC, respectively.X-axis: X-axis represents the samples for which the fuel efficiency test is conducted; and Y-axis: Y-axis represents the fuel saving in %. Normalization was performed in relation to an experiment with commercially available Comparative lubricant A having metallocene polyalphaolefin.

[0013] Figures 2a, and 2b illustrates gear cleanliness for the Lubricant composition 1, and Lubricant composition 2 of the present invention, respectively, and Figure 2c illustrate gear cleanliness for the commercially available Comparative lubricant A.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Before the present compositions and formulations of the invention are described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular compositions and formulations described, since such compositions and formulation may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is not intended to be limiting.

[0015] If a group is defined to comprise at least a certain number of embodiments, this is meant to also encompass a group which preferably consists of these embodiments only. Furthermore, the terms "first", "second", "third" or "(a)", "(b)", "(c)", "(d)" etc. and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described orillustrated herein. In case the terms "first", "second", "third" or “(A)”, “(B)” and “(C)” or "(a)", "(b)", "(c)", "(d)", "i", "ii" etc. relate to steps of a process or use or assay there is no time or time interval coherence between the steps, that is, the steps may be carried out simultaneously or there may be time intervals of seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months or even years between such steps, unless other-wise indicated in the application as set forth herein above or below.

[0016] In the following passages, different aspects of the invention are defined in more detail. Each aspect so defined may be combined with any other aspect or aspects unless clearly indicated to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or features indicated as being preferred or advantageous.

[0017] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "a preferred embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the presently claimed invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in a preferred embodiment" or “in another embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some, but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0018] Furthermore, the ranges defined throughout the specification include the end values as well i.e., a range of 1 to 10 implies that both 1 and 10 are included in the range.

[0019] Certain terms are first defined so that this disclosure can be more readily understood. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which embodiments of the invention pertain.

[0020] In an aspect, the present invention is directed to a lubricant composition comprising:a polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component in an amount in the range of from 30 wt.% to 70 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition; and an alkoxy lated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) in an amount in the range of from 15 wt.% to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant compositionwherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 90, n is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, n’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, k is an integer in the range of > 2 to < 30,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear or branched, alkyl residue having 6-28 carbon atoms,R2 denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3 denotes a hydrogen atom or -CH3, whereby the concatenations denoted by k are distributed to form a block polymeric structure and the concatenations denoted by p, p’, n, n’, m and m’ are distributed to form a block polymeric structure or a random polymeric structure, wherein the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 110 cSt to 125 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 1000 cSt to 1200 cSt, as measured in accordance with ASTM D445.

[0021] Polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil:The polyalphaolefin Type IV base oils are synthetic viscosity fluids. Such synthetic viscosity fluids suitable for the present invention include the polyalphaolefins (PAOs) and the syntheticoils from the hydrocracking or hydroisomerization of Fischer Tropsch high boiling fractions including waxes. These are both stocks comprised of saturates with low impurity levels consistent with their synthetic origin. The hydroisomerized Fischer Tropsch waxes are highly suitable base stocks, comprising saturated components of iso-paraffinic character (resulting from the isomerization of the predominantly n-paraffins of the Fischer Tropsch waxes) which give a good blend of high viscosity index and low pour point. Processes for the hydroisomerization of Fischer Tropsch waxes are described in U.S. Patents 5,362,378; 5,565,086; 5,246,566 and 5,135,638, as well in EP 710710, EP 321302 and EP 321304.

[0022] Polyalphaolefin Type IV base oils suitable for the present invention include hydrogenated polymers or oligomers of alphaolefins which include but are not limited to C2 to C32 alphaolefins with the Cs to Ci6 alphaolefins, such as 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene and the like being preferred. The preferred polyalphaolefin Type IV base oils are poly- 1-octene, poly- 1-decene, and poly- 1-dodecene. The more preferred polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil is poly( 1-decene).

[0023] Low viscosity PAO fluids suitable for the present invention, may be conveniently made by the polymerization of an alphaolefin in the presence of a polymerization catalyst such as the Friedel-Crafts catalysts including, for example, aluminum trichloride, boron trifluoride or complexes of boron trifluoride with water, alcohols such as ethanol, propanol or butanol, carboxylic acids or esters such as ethyl acetate or ethyl propionate. For example, the methods disclosed by U.S. Patents 4,149,178 or 3,382,291 may be conveniently used herein. Other descriptions of PAO synthesis are found in the following U.S. Patents: 3,742,082 (Brennan); 3,769,363 (Brennan); 3,876,720 (Heilman); 4,239,930 (Allphin); 4,367,352 (Watts); 4,413,156 (Watts); 4,434,408 (Larkin); 4,910,355 (Shubkin); 4,956,122 (Watts); and 5,068,487 (Theriot).

[0024] High viscosity PAO fluids can be prepared by the same methods used for preparing low viscosity PAO fluids as mentioned above.

[0025] The kinematic viscosity of the polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil at 100 °C is in the range of from 3.8 cSt to 4.1 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 16 cSt to 18 cSt.

[0026] In some embodiments, the kinematic viscosity of the polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil at 40°C is from 16 cSt to 20 cSt, from 16 cSt to 22 cSt, from 16 cSt to 24 cSt, from 16 cSt to 26 cSt, from 16 cSt to 28 cSt, or from 16 cSt to 30 cSt.

[0027] In preferred embodiments, the base oil is selected from polyalphaolefin Type IV base oils.

[0028] Alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I):An alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) iswherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 90, n is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, n’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, k is an integer in the range of > 2 to < 30,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear or branched, alkyl residue having 6-28 carbon atoms,R2 denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3 denotes a hydrogen atom or -CH3, whereby the concatenations denoted by k are distributed to form a block polymeric structure and the concatenations denoted by p, p’, n, n’, m and m’ are distributed to form a block polymeric structure or a random polymeric structure.

[0029] Preferably, k is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 25 , more preferably k is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 20, most preferably in the range of > 5 to < 20, utmost preferably in the range of > 6 to < 16.

[0030] Preferably, m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 25 and m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 25, more preferably m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 20 and m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 20.

[0031] Preferably, (m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 65, more preferably (m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 50, even more preferably (m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 40.

[0032] Preferably, n is an integer in the range of > 6 to < 40 and n’ is an integer in the range of > 6 to < 40, more preferably n is an integer in the range of > 8 to < 35 and p’ is an integer in the range of > 8 to < 35.

[0033] Preferably, (n+n’) is an integer in the range of > 10 to < 80, more preferably (n+n’) is an integer in the range of > 15 to < 70.

[0034] Preferably, p is an integer in the range of > 5 to < 25 and p’ is an integer in the range of > 5 to < 25, more preferably p is an integer in the range of > 5 to < 15 and p’ is an integer in the range of > 5 to < 15.

[0035] Preferably, (p+p’) is an integer in the range of > 10 to < 30, more preferably (p+p’) is an integer in the range of > 15 to < 30.

[0036] Preferably, R1denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 6-18 carbon atoms. More preferably R1denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 8-16 carbon atoms. Most preferably R1denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 8-12 carbon atoms.

[0037] hi another embodiment, the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) iswherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 50, n is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45, n’ is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45,(n+n’) is an integer in the range of > 6 to < 90, p is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, k is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 25,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 6-18 carbon atoms,R2 denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3denotes -CH3.In another embodiment, the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) is(I), wherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 50, n is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 45, n’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 45, p is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45, p’ is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45,(p+p’) is an integer in the range of > 6 to < 90, k is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 25,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 6-18 carbon atoms,R? denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3denotes -CH3.

[0038] In another embodiment, the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) is formula (la)Formula (la) wherein n+n‘ = 35, m+m‘ = 20, and k = 14.

[0039] The kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at100 °C is at least 110 cSt.

[0040] hi one embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 111 cSt.

[0041] In another embodiment, kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 112 cSt.

[0042] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 113 cSt.

[0043] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 114 cSt.

[0044] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 115 cSt. |0045 | In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 116 cSt.

[0046] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 117 cSt.

[0047] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 118 cSt.

[0048] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 119 cSt.

[0049] hi another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 120 cSt.

[0050] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 121 cSt.

[0051] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is at least 121.5 cSt.

[0052] The kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is up to 125 cSt.

[0053] In one embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is up to 124 cSt.

[0054] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is up to 123 cSt.

[0055] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is up to 122 cSt.

[0056] The kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1000 cSt.

[0057] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1010 cSt.

[0058] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1020 cSt.

[0059] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1030 cSt.

[0060] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1035 cSt.

[0061] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (1) at 40 °C is at least 1040 cSt.

[0062] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1041 cSt.

[0063] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1042 cSt.

[0064] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is at least 1043 cSt.

[0065] The kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at40 °C is up to 1200 cSt.

[0066] In one embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1150 cSt.

[0067] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1100.

[0068] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1090.

[0069] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1080.

[0070] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1070.

[0071] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1060.

[0072] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1050.

[0073] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is up to 1045.

[0074] The kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 110 cSt to 125 cSt.

[0075] In one embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 111 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0076] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 112 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0077] hi another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (1) at 100 °C is in the range of 113 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0078] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 114 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0079] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 115 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0080] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 116 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0081] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 117 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0082] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 118 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0083] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 119 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0084] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 120 cSt to 124 cSt.

[0085] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 114 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0086] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 115 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0087] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 116 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0088] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 117 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0089] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 118 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0090] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 119 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0091] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 120 cSt to 123 cSt.

[0092] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 115 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0093] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (1) at 100 °C is in the range of from 116 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0094] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 117 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0095] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 118 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0096] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 119 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0097] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 120 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0098] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is in the range of from 121 cSt to 122 cSt.

[0099] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 100 °C is 121.9 cSt.

[0100] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is in the range of from 1000 cSt to 1200 cSt.

[0101] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is in the range of from 1000 cSt to 1150 cSt.

[0102] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is in the range of from 1000 cSt to 1100.

[0103] In another embodiment, the kinematic viscosity of the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) at 40 °C is 1043.6 cSt.

[0104] The alkoxylated polytetrahydrofuranes of formula (I) may be obtained by reacting at least one polytetrahydrofurane block polymer with at least one Cs-Cso epoxy alkane and optionally at least one epoxide selected from the group consisting of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and butylene oxide in the presence of at least one catalyst. In case at least one epoxide selected from the group consisting of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and butylene oxide is used, the at least one Cs-Cso epoxy alkane and the at least one epoxide selected from the group consisting of ethylene oxide, propylene oxide and butylene oxide can either be added as a mixture of epoxides to obtain a random copolymer or in portions, whereby each portion contains a different epoxide, to obtain a block copolymer. Processes for preparing the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofuranes of formula (I) are described in EP 2 997 118 Bl.

[0105] The kinematic viscosity of the lubricant composition at 100 °C may be in the range of from 11 cSt to 14 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 50 cSt to 110 cSt.

[0106] For the purpose of this disclosure, any reference to kinematic viscosity is the kinematic viscosity as measured in accordance with ASTM D445.

[0107] The kinematic viscosity of the lubricant composition at 100 °C is preferably in the range of from 12 cSt to 14 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 55 cSt to 100 cSt, more preferably the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant composition at 100 °C is in the range of from12.5 cSt to 13.6 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 60 cSt to 90 cSt, most preferably the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant composition at 100 °C is in the range of from 12.5 cSt to13.6 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 60 cSt to 80 cSt.

[0108] The lubricant composition may have a viscosity index in the range of from 181 to 200 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

[0109] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a viscosity index in the range of from 185 to 198 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

[0110] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a viscosity index in the range of from 190 to 195 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

[0111] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a viscosity index in the range of from 191 to 194 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

[0112] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a viscosity index in the range of from 191 to 193 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

[0113] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a viscosity index in the range of from 192 to 193 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

[0114] The lubricant composition may have a pour point at from -50°C to -65 °C.

[0115] For the purpose of this disclosure, any reference to pour point is the pour point as measured in accordance with ASTM D97.[001 16] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a pour point at from -57°C to - 60°C.

[0117] The lubricant composition may have a Brookfield viscosity at 40 °C in the range of from 20,000 cP to 35,000 cP.

[0118] For the purpose of this disclosure, any reference to Brookfield viscosity is the Brookfield viscosity as measured in accordance with ASTM D2983.

[0119] In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a Brookfield viscosity at 40 °C in the range of from 23,000 cP to 33,000 cP.|00120| In one embodiment, the lubricant composition has a Brookfield viscosity at 40 °C in the range of from 24,000 cP to 31,000 cP. The lubricant composition may further comprise additives selected from gear oil additive, antioxidant, dispersant, anti-foaming agent, ester, polymeric thickener other than the polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I), viscosity index improver, corrosion inhibitor, detergent, demulsifier, dye, wear protection additive, extreme pressure additive, anti-wear additive, pour point depressant, friction modifier, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0121] In one embodiment, the polymeric thickener other than polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) is selected from an olefin copolymer (OCP), polymethylacrylate (PMA), polyisobutene (PIB), high viscosity polyalphaolefin (PAO), or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0122] In one embodiment, the gear oil additive is selected from Anglamol 6004M, mixture of Sulfurized isobutylene (1-Propene, 2-methyl-, sulfurized) [CAS # 68511-50-2, >45- <55 %w / w], Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated heavy paraffinic [CAS # 64742-54-7, >25- <35 %w / w], dipentyl hydrogen phosphate [CAS # 3138-42-9, >1 - <3 %w / w], Amines, C12- Cu-tert-alkyl [CAS # 68955-53-3, >1 - <3 %w / w], and (Z)-octadec-9-enylamine [CAS # 112- 90-3, >1 - <2.5 %w / w], or mixtures thereof.

[0123] The gear oil may be included in an amount in the range of from 3 wt.% to 12 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0124] In one embodiment, the gear oil is included in an amount in the range of from 5 wt.% to 12 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0125] In one embodiment, the gear oil is included in an amount in the range of from 7 wt.% to 12 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0126] In one embodiment, the gear oil is included in an amount in the range of from 8 wt.% to 10 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0127] The antioxidant may be selected from alkylated monophenols, alkylthiomethylphenols, hydroquinones and alkylated hydroquinones, hydroxylated thiodiphenyl ethers, alkylidenebisphenols, O-, N- and S-benzyl compounds, hydroxybenzylated malonates, triazine compounds, aromatic hydroxybenzyl compounds, benzylphosphonates, acylaminophenols, esters of [3-(3,5-di-tert-butyl-4- hydroxyphenyl)propionic acid with mono- or polyhydric alcohols, esters of P-(5-tert-butyl-4- hydroxy-3-methylphenyl)-propionic acid with mono- or polyhydric alcohols, aminic antioxidants, aliphatic or aromatic phosphites, esters of thiodipropionic acid or of thiodiacetic acid, salts of dithiocarbamic or dithiophosphoric acid, 2 sulfurized fatty esters, sulfurized fats and sulfurized olefins, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0128] In one embodiment, the antioxidant is aminic antioxidant.

[0129] The aminic antioxidant may be selected from Benzenamine, N-Phenyl-, reaction products with 2,4,4-trimethylpentene (CAS # 68411-46-1), N-phenyl-1, 1,3,3- tetramethylbutylnaphthalen-1- amine, phenyl- 1 -naphthylamine, or mixtures thereof.

[0130] The antioxidant is typically included in an amount of 0 wt.% to 2 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0131] The dispersant may be derived from a substrate that included a succinimide dispersant, a Mannich dispersant, an ester-containing dispersant, a condensation product of a fatty hydrocarbyl monocarboxylic acylating agent with an amine or ammonia, an alkyl amino phenol dispersant, a hydrocarbyl-amine dispersant, a polyether dispersant, a polyetheramine dispersant, a viscosity modifier containing dispersant functionality, or mixtures thereof.

[0132] hi one embodiment, the dispersant is derived from a substrate that included a succinimide dispersant, an ester-containing dispersant or a Mannich dispersant.

[0133] The dispersant is typically included in an amount of 0 wt.% to 4 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0134] The anti-foaming agent may be selected from a silicon based anti-foaming agent, acrylate copolymer based anti-foaming agent, an ester based anti-foaming agent, or mixtures thereof.

[0135] In one embodiment, the anti-foaming agent is acrylate copolymer based antifoaming agent, or an ester based anti-foaming agent.

[0136] The anti-foaming agent is typically included in an amount of 0 wt.% to 4 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0137] The ester may be selected from an adipate ester, polyol ester, a trimethylolpropane ester, or mixtures thereof.

[0138] In one embodiment, the ester is an adipate ester.

[0139] In one embodiment, the adipate ester is dipropylheptanol diester of adipic acid.

[0140] The ester is typically included in an amount of 0 wt. % to 25 wt. % based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0141] In one embodiment, the ester is included in an amount of 0 wt.% to 15 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.|00142| The anti- wear additive may be selected from zinc dialkyl-dithio phosphate (“ZDDP”), sulfur- and / or phosphorus- and / or halogen-containing compounds, e.g. sulfurised olefins and vegetable oils, alkylated triphenyl phosphates, tritolyl phosphate, tricresyl phosphate, chlorinated paraffins, alkyl and aryl di- and trisulfides, amine salts of mono- and dialkyl phosphates, amine salts of methylphosphonic acid, diethanolaminomethyltolyltriazole, bis(2-ethylhexyl)aminomethyltolyltriazole, derivatives of 2,5-dimercapto-l,3,4-thiadiazole, ethyl 3-[(diisopropoxyphosphinothioyl)thio]propionate, triphenyl thiophosphate (triphenylphosphorothioate), tris(alkylphenyl) phosphorothioate and mixtures thereof (for example tris(isononylphenyl) phosphorothioate), diphenyl monononylphenyl phosphorothioate, isobutylphenyl diphenyl phosphorothioate, the dodecylamine salt of 3- hydroxy- 1,3 -thiaphosphetane 3-oxide, trithiophosphoric acid 5,5,5-tris[isooctyl 2-acetate], derivatives of 2-mercaptobenzothiazole such as l-[N,N-bis (2-ethylhexyl)aminomethyl]-2- mercapto-lH-l,3-benzothiazole, ethoxycarbonyl-5 -octyldithio carbamate, ashless anti- wear additives including phosphorous, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0143] In one embodiment, the anti-wear additive is zinc dialkyl-dithio phosphate.

[0144] The anti-wear additive is typically included in an amount in the range of from 0.1 wt.% to 15 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0145] In one embodiment, the anti- wear additive is included in an amount in the range of from 0.1 wt.% to 10 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0146] In one embodiment, the anti-wear additive is included in an amount in the range of from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0147] In one embodiment, the anti-wear additive is included in an amount in the range of from 0.1 wt.% to 2 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0148] In one embodiment, the anti-wear additive is included in an amount in the range of from 0. 1 wt.% to 0.5 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0149] The pour point depressant may be selected from polymethyacrylate and alkylated naphthalene derivatives, or mixutres thereof.

[0150] The pour point depressant is typically included in an amount in the range of from 0.001 wt.% to 1 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0151] The viscosity index improver may be selected from polyacrylates, polymethacrylates, vinylpyrrolidone / methacrylate copolymers, polyvinylpyrrolidones, polybutenes, olefin copolymers, styrene / acrylate copolymers and polyethers, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0152] The viscosity index improver is typically included in an amount in the range of from 0.01 wt.% to 20 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0153] In one embodiment, the viscosity index improver is included in an amount in the range of from 0.01 wt.% to 15 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0154] In one embodiment, the viscosity index improver is included in an amount in the range of from 0.01 wt.% to 10 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0155] In one embodiment, the viscosity index improver is included in an amount in the range of from 0.01 wt.% to 5 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0156] The lubricant composition of the present invention can be utilized in a variety of lubricating applications, and is especially useful as a lubricant for axles, transmissions (manual or automatic), transfer cases, power take off, transaxles, and bearings / wheels. That is, the lubricant composition can be used in both light-duty and heavy-duty axles.

[0157] The lubricant composition exhibits improved fuel efficiency in comparison to conventional lubricants. In addition, despite demonstrating increased fuel efficiency, the lubricant composition also has good shear stability, and oxidation / thermal stability among other properties.

[0158] The presently claimed invention offers one or more of the following advantages:The lubricant composition of the present invention increases fuel efficiency.The lubricant composition of the present invention, also has good shear stability, and oxidation / thermal stability among other properties

[0159] In another aspect, the present invention is directed to an axle lubricant comprising the lubricant composition as defined herein.

[0160] hi yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a use of the lubricant composition as defined herein for reducing friction between moving surfaces.

[0161] Tn yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of enhancing the friction modification properties of a lubricant composition in the lubrication of a mechanical device comprising formulating the lubricant composition with at least one alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined herein.

[0162] The term formulating typically means mixing of ingredients / components to homogeneitiy to obtain final product or composition. Mixing may be accomplished by turbulent mixing, such as by high- shear agitation, or laminar mixing.

[0163] In yet another aspect, the present invention is directed to a method of preparing the lubricant composition as defined herein, wherein the method comprising mixing of the polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component as defined herein, and the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined herein in a mixing vessel.

[0164] The polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component as defined herein, and the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined herein are mixed in a mixing vessel at a temperature of from 35 °C to about 50 °C.

[0165] The lubricant composition may further comprise additives selected from gear oil additive, antioxidant, dispersant, anti-foaming agent, ester, polymeric thickener other than the polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I), viscosity index improver, corrosion inhibitor, detergent, demulsifier, dye, wear protection additive, extreme pressure additive, anti- wear additive, pour point depressant, friction modifier, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

[0166] The additives are added in a mixing step along with the polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component as defined herein, and the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined herein.

[0167] The mixing vessel may be selected from metal or glass vessel. Mechanical agitation is supplied to promote mixing.

[0168] Sufficient mixing time is utilized to ensure that a homogeneous product is obtained. The mixing time may be in the range of from 15 minutes to 60 minutes.

[0169] The process for making the lubricant composition of the present invention should be known to and appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art given the present disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that this method of preparation is not limiting to the invention, and that one or more components may be modified in accordance with the teachings herein or that which is known in the art.

[0170] The following examples illustrate the invention in greater detail. All percentages and parts are by weight, unless stated otherwise.EXAMPLES:

[0171] Ingredients of the formulations mentioned in below table 1:

[0172] Base oil 1: Poly(l -decene) [polyalphaolefin 4]

[0173] Base oil 2: [polyalphaolefin 6] Highly branched isoparaffinic polyalphaolefin

[0174] Gear oil additive 1: Anglamol 6004M [Gear oil additive package from Lubrizol]

[0175] Gear oil additive 2: Mixture of Sulfurized isobutylene (1 -Propene, 2-methyl-, sulfurized) [CAS # 68511-50-2, >45 - <55 %w / w], Distillates (petroleum), hydrotreated heavy paraffinic |CAS # 64742-54-7, >25 - <35 %w / w|, dipentyl hydrogen phosphate |CAS # 3138- 42-9, >1 - <3 %w / w], Amines, Ci2-Ci4-tert-alkyl [CAS # 68955-53-3, >1 - <3 %w / w] , and (Z)-octadec-9-enylamine [CAS # 112-90-3, >1 - <2.5 %w / w]

[0176] Ester: diester of adipic acid (a dicarboxylic acid ester component)

[0177] Antioxidant 1: Benzenamine, N-Phenyl-, reaction products with 2,4,4- Trimethylpentene (Liquid octylated / butylated diphenylamine)

[0178] Antioxidant 2: N-phenyLl,l,3,3-tetramethylbutylnaphthalen-l-amine (alkylated phenyl alpha naphthylamine)

[0179] Antioxidant 3 : phenyl- 1 -naphthylamine

[0180] Dispersant 1: a tetraethylene pentamine Succinimide dispersant having a polyisobutenyl substituent formed from polyisobutene having an average molecular weight, as determined by gel permeation chromatography, of 1300

[0181] Dispersant 2: HiTEC® 643D dispersant is a 1300 MWN PIBSA (polyisobutylene succinic acid or anhydride) plus a polyamine wherein the dispersant was post treated with maleic anhydride and boric acid

[0182] Anti-foaming agent: Synative AC AMH-2 (a non-silicone anti-foam agent) commercially available from BASF

[0183] Thickener 1: an alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) (thickener fromBASF)Formula (la) wherein n+n‘ = 35, m+m‘ = 20, and k = 14

[0184] Thickener 2: metallocene polyalphaolefin

[0185] A lubricant composition within the scope of this disclosure is provided in Table 1 as Lubricant composition 1 , Lubricant composition 2, and Lubricant composition 3. Table 1 also provides one comparative lubricant as Comparative Lubricant A. Each individual component for each lubricant in Table 1 is provided in weight percent (wt.%) based on the total weight of the respective lubricant.Table 1:

[0186] Base oils are polyalphaolefin 4 [Base oil 1] and polyalphaolefin 6 [Base oil 2]. Of which, polyalphaolefin 4 has kinematic viscosity of 3.8 cSt at 100 °C and kinematic viscosity of 16.8 cSt at 40 °C. Polyalphaolefin 6 has kinematic viscosity of 5.9 cSt at 100 °C and kinematic viscosity of 30.8 cSt at 40 °C.

[0187] The physical properties of Lubricant composition 1, Lubricant composition 2, Lubricant composition 3, and Comparative lubricant A were measures and are also provided in Table 1. Lubricant composition 1, Lubricant composition 2, and Lubricant composition 3 were found to have excellent low temperature properties, shear stability, oxidation / thermal stability, and improved fuel saving benefits.

[0188] Achieving all of these properties with an appropriate kinematic viscosity is unpredictable. The combination of viscosity index, pour point, and kinematic viscosity achieved by Lubricant compositions 1-3 is therefore surprising.

[0189] It is evident from the Pour point and Viscosity index of Table 1 that Lubricant composition 1, Lubricant composition 2, and Lubricant composition 3 have excellent low temperature properties when thickener lis used.

[0190] The shear stability of Lubricant composition 1, Lubricant composition 2, and Lubricant composition 3 measured by KRL shear test at extended length (200 hours) is found to be comparable to that of commercially available Comparative lubricant A.

[0191] Fuel saving benefits of Lubricant composition 3 having thickener 1 were compared with commercially available Comparative lubricant A having metallocene polyalphaolefin. The EPA 75 / 25 fuel economy and European NEDC cycle tests were run on chassis dynamometer using a 2015 Dodge Ram truck (C 235 axle). The test results are shown in Figures la, lb, and 1c.

[0192] From Figures la, lb, and 1c it is evident that the Lubricant composition 3 having thickener 2 showed excellent fuel saving benefits compared to commercially available Comparative lubricant A having metallocene polyalphaolefin of similar viscosity.

[0193] The oxidation stability and thermal stability were measured using DKA oxidation test and oxidation / thermal test (L-60) in extended length (200-hour). From Table 1, it is evident that Lubricant composition 1 , Lubricant composition 2, and Lubricant composition 3 having thickener 1 provide performance equivalent to commercially available Comparative lubricant

Claims

A having metallocene polyalphaolefin. The gear cleanliness from the L-60 tests is shown in Figure 2.Claims:

1. A lubricant composition comprising: a polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component in an amount in the range of from 30 wt.% to 70 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition; and an alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) in an amount in the range of from 15 wt.% to 30 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant compositionwherein m is an integer in the range of > I to < 50, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 50,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 90, n is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, n’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, k is an integer in the range of > 2 to < 30,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear or branched, alkyl residue having 6-28 carbon atoms,R? denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3 denotes a hydrogen atom or -CH3, whereby the concatenations denoted by k are distributed to form a block polymeric structure and the concatenations denoted by p, p’, n, n’, m and m’ are distributed to form a block polymeric structure or a random polymeric structure, wherein the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant composition at 100 °C is in the range of from 11 cSt to 14 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 50 cSt to 110 cSt, as measured in accordance with ASTM D445.

2. The lubricant composition according to claim 1, wherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 50, n is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45, n’ is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45,(n+n’) is an integer in the range of > 6 to < 90, p is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, p’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 75, k is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 25,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 6-18 carbon atoms, R2 denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3 denotes -CH3.

3. The lubricant composition according to claim 1, wherein m is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30, m’ is an integer in the range of > 1 to < 30,(m+m’) is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 50, n is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 45, n’ is an integer in the range of > 0 to < 45, p is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45, p’ is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 45,(p+p’) is an integer in the range of > 6 to < 90, k is an integer in the range of > 3 to < 25,Ri denotes an unsubstituted, linear alkyl residue having 6-18 carbon atoms,R2 denotes -CH2-CH3, andR3 denotes -CH3.

4. The lubricant composition according to claim 1, wherein the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) is formula (la)Formule (la) wherein n+n‘ = 35, m+nT = 20, and k = 14.

5. The lubricant composition according to any of the claims 1 to 4, wherein the kinematic viscosity of the polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil at 100 °C is in the range of from 3.8 cSt to 4.1 cSt and at 40 °C is in the range of from 16 cSt to 18 cSt, as measured in accordance with ASTM D445.

6. The lubricant composition according to any of the claims 1 to 5, further comprising additives selected from gear oil additive, antioxidant, dispersant, anti-foaming agent, ester, polymeric thickener other than the polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I), viscosity index improver, corrosion inhibitor, detergent, demulsifier, dye, wear protection additive, extreme pressure additive, anti-wear additive, pour point depressant, friction modifier, or mixtures of two or more thereof.

7. The lubricant composition according to any of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the lubricant composition has a viscosity index in the range of from 181 to 200 as measured in accordance with ASTM D2270.

8. The lubricant composition according to any of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the lubricant composition has a pour point at from -50°C to -65 °C, as measured in accordance with ASTM D97.

9. The lubricant composition according to any of the claims 1 to 8, wherein the lubricant composition has a pour point at from -57°C to -60°C, as measured in accordance with ASTM D97.

10. An axle lubricant comprising the lubricant composition as claimed in claims 1 to 9.

11. Use of the lubricant composition as defined in any of claims 1 to 9 for reducing friction between moving surfaces.

12. A method of enhancing the friction modification properties of a lubricating composition in the lubrication of a mechanical device comprising formulating said lubricating composition with at least one alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined in any of claims 1 to 4.

13. A method of preparing the lubricant composition as defined in any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the method comprising mixing of the polyalphaolefin Type IV base oil component as defined in claims 1 and 6 and the alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula (I) as defined in any of claims 1 to 4 in a mixing vessel.

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