Polyglycol-based lubricant compositions

Abstract

The invention relates to a lubricant composition comprising a) a base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 wt.% to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer.

Description

[0001] Lubricant compositions based on polyglycol

[0002] The invention relates to a lubricant composition with good tribological properties and its use for lubricating tribological systems, in particular gears and / or bearings. The invention further relates to a tribological system containing the lubricant composition.

[0003] State of the art

[0004] Lubricants are essential components of many industrial processes in which two or more surfaces move in close contact. The range of applications for lubricants is very broad and encompasses a wide variety of tribological systems.

[0005] Lubricants can be formulated as lubricating oils or lubricating greases. In addition to the lubricating oil, lubricating greases also contain one or more thickeners. Both lubricating oils and lubricating greases typically contain a variety of substances (e.g., additives, oils, auxiliary materials, polymers, thickeners in the case of lubricating greases) to regulate the lubricating grease properties and adjust the lubricating effect on the component.

[0006] Lubricating greases can be used to lubricate bearings.

[0007] Bearings are machine elements for guiding components that move relative to one another. Machine elements are components that fulfil the same or similar functions in different machines and devices and are therefore always present in the same or a similar form. Bearings can be differentiated according to the degree of freedom of possible movement, namely radial bearings, axial bearings, radial axis bearings and linear bearings. Bearings can also be differentiated according to their operating principle. In linear bearings, the components moving relative to one another are in direct contact, whereas in rolling bearings the moving components do not touch directly but are separated by rolling elements. Rolling bearings can be roller bearings or ball bearings. Roller bearings can be needle bearings, cylindrical roller bearings, tapered roller bearings and spherical roller bearings. Bearings are usually filled with lubricating grease during production, which is then sealed by suitable sealing elements in the bearing or housing.is kept in the lead.

[0008] Industrial gearboxes are transmission systems specifically designed for industrial applications. They play a crucial role in manufacturing, mining, power plants, and other sectors. Some important aspects of industrial gearboxes include power and torque transmission. Industrial gearboxes are designed to transmit high power. They can be coupled with large motors and handle enormous torques. Preferred gearbox types are spur gears, bevel gears, and / or planetary gears. Spur gears are robust and well-suited for high torques. They are commonly used in conveyor belts, mills, and cranes. Bevel gears transmit rotary motion between off-axis shafts. They are found in pumps, fans, and mixers. Planetary gearboxes are compact gearboxes. They offer a high gear ratio and are used in robotic arms, wind turbines, and printing presses.

[0009] WO2017210388 (A1) describes a lubricant composition comprising a polyalkylene glycol-based oil component in an amount of at least about 60 parts by weight, based on 100 parts by weight of the lubricant composition. The polyalkylene glycol-based oil component contains two polyalkylene glycols of different viscosities. The polyalkylene glycols are EO / PO copolymers.

[0010] US 6436883 B1 describes a liquid composition consisting essentially of: a) a water-soluble polyoxyalkylene glycol monobutyl ether having a molecular weight between 450 and 5000, wherein the polyoxyalkylene glycol monobutyl ether is derived from n-butanol and a gaseous mixture of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, and wherein the viscosity of the polyoxyalkylene glycol monobutyl ether is between 100 and 4000 in Saybolt Universal Seconds at 38°C; b) a carboxylic acid having between 6 and 18 carbon atoms per carboxylic acid molecule; and c) an amine. The composition can be used as a hydraulic fluid or gear oil.

[0011] CN 109181836 A describes water-based hydraulic fluids that may contain 29 to 50% by weight of an antifreeze agent. The antifreeze agent is selected from ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, glycerin, and butylene glycol.

[0012] WO 2015 / 191421 A1 describes a lubricant composition comprising a synthetic base oil, additives, and a compatibilizer. Branched, primary, saturated alcohols can be used as compatibilizers. API Group IV oils, especially PAO, are preferred as base oils.

[0013] EP 4386070 A1 describes a lubricant composition comprising one or more base oils of lubricating viscosity and about 0.01 to about 3.5 weight percent of a C2 to C3 diol or triol compound, or a mixture thereof. With increasing demands, there is a constant need for new lubricants with good tribological properties. The new lubricants should be characterized in particular by a low coefficient of friction and a low traction coefficient.

[0014] Surprisingly, it has now been found that this task is solved by the use of special base oils containing a combination of selected polyglycols and alkanediols as base oils for lubricant compositions.

[0015] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0016] A first aspect of the invention is a lubricant composition comprising a) a base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0017] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer.

[0018] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains at least one base oil a3 different from a1) and a2), at least one additive b) and / or at least one thickener c).

[0019] In a specific embodiment, a lubricant composition according to the invention contains: a) a base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0020] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0021] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) and / or 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener c).

[0022] Furthermore, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0023] A lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains a) 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 98 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 70 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0024] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0025] The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.% and / or the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0026] The proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0027] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) and / or 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener.

[0028] A preferred embodiment of the invention is a lubricant composition, designed as a lubricating oil, comprising a) a base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0029] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0030] The proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0031] Optionally, the lubricant composition designed as a lubricating oil contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0032] A lubricant composition according to the invention designed as a lubricating oil preferably contains: a) 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 85 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 90 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0033] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0034] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0035] The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.% and / or the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0036] Furthermore, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0037] A further embodiment of the invention is a lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating grease. Lubricating greases contain at least one thickener c). Optionally, the lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating grease contains at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0038] Preferably, a lubricant composition designed as a lubricating grease contains: a) a base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-Ce alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0039] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive, c) 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener.

[0040] The proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0041] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0042] More preferably, a lubricant composition according to the invention designed as a lubricating grease contains: a) 50 wt.% to 97 wt.%, preferably 60 wt.% to 95 wt.%, even more preferably 70 wt.% to 93 wt.%, in particular 80 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, even more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-Ce alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, even more preferably

[0043] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive, c) 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener.

[0044] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil different from a1) and a2).

[0045] The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol a1), based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.% and / or the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0046] Furthermore, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%. The invention further relates to the use of a lubricant composition according to one or more of the embodiments described above and below for lubricating tribological systems, preferably selected from gears, preferably closed gears, in particular industrial gears, gears in electric vehicles, gears that are components of power tools, large gears, for example a) gears for heavy industry, in particular gears in cement production plants, gears in steel production plants,Gears in plants for the extraction of raw materials, preferably mineral raw materials, gears in plants for the processing of highly viscous raw materials, such as elastomers b) gears in conveyor systems, in particular for the transport of bulk material, c) ship propulsion systems, d) wind turbines and / or gears of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed and / or selected from bearings, in particular bearings in industrial plants, bearings in vehicles, such as automobiles, bearings which are components of power tools and / or bearings of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0047] A further subject matter of the invention is a tribological system, preferably selected from gears and / or bearings, which contains a lubricant composition according to one or more of the embodiments described above and below.

[0048] DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0049] The present invention relates to a lubricant composition comprising a) a base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-Ce alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0050] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer.

[0051] The lubricant composition is suitable for lubricating tribological systems.

[0052] A tribological system is, in general terms, a technical system that enables, influences, or prevents movement through contact. Its essential components are the pairs of active surfaces involved in a tribological load and the load collective acting on them. Typically, a tribological system comprises at least one base body that is in contact and moving relative to at least one counter-body. The load collective includes the load applied to the bodies as well as the movement conditions, the friction state, and the temperature. An intermediate substance is often located between the two bodies; this can be lubricants specifically introduced to reduce wear.

[0053] In the context of the invention, a tribological system specifically refers to a system in which friction arises as a result of the relative movement of interacting surfaces. Lubricants are used to minimize wear caused by the stress on the surfaces resulting from friction. Lubricants reduce wear and ensure the function of parts subject to frictional forces. Preferred tribological systems for use with the lubricant compositions according to the invention are gears and / or bearings.Preferred gearboxes are industrial gearboxes, gearboxes in electric vehicles, gearboxes that are components of power tools, large gearboxes, for example a) gearboxes for heavy industry, in particular gearboxes in cement production plants, gearboxes in steel production plants, gearboxes in plants for the extraction of raw materials, preferably mineral raw materials, gearboxes in plants for the processing of highly viscous raw materials such as elastomers b) gearboxes in conveyor systems, in particular for the transport of bulk material c) ship propulsion systems d) wind turbines and / or gearboxes of equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed. Preferred bearings are bearings in industrial plants, bearings in vehicles such as automobiles, bearings that are components of power tools and / or bearings of equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0054] The lubricant compositions according to the invention have the following advantages: They have very good tribological properties.

[0055] They have a very low coefficient of friction over a wide temperature range and a wide sliding and rolling component.

[0056] They have a low specific resistance.

[0057] Surprisingly, they have lower friction values ​​than lubricant compositions containing only EO / PO copolymers.

[0058] The lubricant compositions according to the invention comprise a base oil a) and optionally at least one additive b) and / or at least one thickener c). The base oil a) may contain at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0059] The base oil a) contains the at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2). The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol is 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition. Furthermore, the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer is 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, even more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0060] The C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) are preferably base oils. Base oils are liquid at room temperature (20°C) and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa. Therefore, the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) are preferably liquid at room temperature (20°C) and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa.

[0061] Preferably, the proportion of the at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together is at least 50 wt.%, for example 50 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 60 wt.% to 99 wt.%, even more preferably 63 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0062] The at least one additive b) is preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors,

[0063] Antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers,

[0064] Wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives to improve high-pressure properties, adhesion promoters, defoamers, and mixtures thereof. a1) C2-C6 alkanediol a1)

[0065] The base oil of the lubricant composition according to the invention comprises at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1). Alkanediols have two hydroxy groups as substituents. The term "C2-C6" refers to the number of carbon atoms in the main carbon chain of the alkanediol. The main carbon chain is the longest carbon chain of the alkanediol containing the two hydroxy substituents. The main carbon chain preferably has 2 to 5 carbon atoms.

[0066] The C2-C6 alkanediol a1) can be unsubstituted. This means that the main carbon chain has no further substituents besides the two OH groups. The total number of carbon atoms in the unsubstituted C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is 2 to 6, preferably 2 to 5.

[0067] The C2-C6 alkanediol a1) can also be present as an alkyl-substituted C2-C6 alkanediol. The alkyl substituents are preferably C1-C3 alkyl radicals, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl radicals, in particular methyl and / or ethyl radicals. In one embodiment, the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) has at least one C1-C3 alkyl radical, preferably exactly one C1-C3 alkyl radical, more preferably at least one C1-C2 alkyl radical, preferably exactly one C1-C2 alkyl radical, in particular at least one methyl and / or ethyl radical, preferably exactly one methyl or ethyl radical, as substituents on the main carbon chain.In alkyl-substituted C2-C6 alkanediol, the main carbon chain is preferably substituted by at least one C1-C3 alkyl radical, preferably by exactly one C1-C3 alkyl radical, more preferably by at least one C1-C2 alkyl radical, preferably exactly one C1-C2 alkyl radical, in particular by at least one methyl and / or ethyl radical, preferably exactly one methyl or ethyl radical. This means that, in addition to the two OH groups, the main carbon chain has at least one C1-C3 alkyl radical, preferably exactly one C1-C3 alkyl radical, more preferably at least one C1-C2 alkyl radical, preferably exactly one C1-C2 alkyl radical, in particular at least one methyl and / or ethyl radical, preferably exactly one methyl or ethyl radical, as substituents.

[0068] Alkyl-substituted C2-C6 alkanediols have 2 to 6 carbon atoms in the main carbon chain, preferably 2 to 5 carbon atoms. The total number of carbon atoms in the alkyl-substituted C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is preferably 3 to 9, more preferably 3 to 8, especially 3 to 6.

[0069] Among the alkyl-substituted C2-C6 alkanediols, C2-C6 alkanediols that have only one substituent selected from C1-C3 alkyl radicals, more preferably from C1-C2 alkyl radicals, in particular from methyl and ethyl radicals, on the main carbon chain have proven particularly advantageous. C2-C6 alkanediols that have only one substituent selected from methyl and ethyl radicals on the main carbon chain are particularly advantageous.

[0070] Practical tests have shown that unsubstituted or only one-substituted C2-C6 alkanediols can impart particularly good friction values ​​to the lubricant composition.

[0071] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the C2-C6 alkanediol is a C2-C6 alkanediol which has no substituent or only one substituent on the main carbon chain, wherein the only one substituent is selected from C1-C3 alkyl radicals, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl radicals, in particular methyl and ethyl radicals.

[0072] Particularly advantageous are C2-C6 alkanediols which have no or only one substituent on the main carbon chain, wherein the only one substituent is selected from methyl and ethyl radicals.

[0073] Preferably, the C2-C6 alkanediol is a 1,2-alkanediol, ie a vicinal diol or a 1,3-alkanediol.

[0074] Likewise, the C2-C6 alkanediol preferably has no further substituents besides the two hydroxyl substituents and any C1-C3 alkyl radicals present. In particular, the C2-C6 alkanediol preferably has no substituents selected from the group consisting of halogen, carboxy, alkyl groups with more than 3 carbon atoms, aryl, oxo groups, and combinations thereof. As explained above, alkanediols have two hydroxyl groups. Glycerin has three hydroxyl groups and is therefore not an alkanediol according to the invention.

[0075] In a preferred embodiment, the C2-C6 alkanediol is not ethylene glycol. This is advantageous because the flash point of ethylene glycol is below 120°C and it is not suitable for use in certain applications for toxicological reasons. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the C2-C6 alkanediol has the general

[0076] Formula 1:

[0077] HO-CH2-(CR 1 R 2 )n -C(OH)R 3 R 4 where n is an integer from 0 to 4, preferably from 0 to 3,

[0078] R 1 and R 2 are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, preferably from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl, particularly preferably from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl, and in particular from hydrogen and methyl,

[0079] R 3 and R 4 are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, preferably from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl, and in particular from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, in formula I at most one of the substituents R 1 , R 2 , R 3 and R 4 different from hydrogen.

[0081] In a preferred embodiment, in the general formula I: n is an integer from 0 to 3,

[0082] R 1 and R 2independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl, and in particular from hydrogen and methyl,

[0083] R 3 and R 4 independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl, and in particular from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl.

[0084] In a particularly preferred embodiment, in the general formula I: n is an integer from 0 to 3,

[0085] R 1 and R 2 independently selected from hydrogen and methyl,

[0086] R 3 and R 4 independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl. The C2-C6 alkanediol can also be present as a mixture of several compounds of the general formula I.

[0087] In a further particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is selected from the group consisting of propanediol, butanediol, methylbutanediol, pentanediol, methylpentanediol, ethylhexanediol and mixtures thereof.

[0088] In a very particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol and mixtures thereof.

[0089] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is liquid at room temperature (20°C) and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa.

[0090] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) has a molecular weight calculated from the molar masses of 76 g / mol to 161 g / mol, preferably from 76 g / mol to 146 g / mol. b1) Ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2)

[0091] The base oil of the lubricant composition according to the invention comprises at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2). The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is preferably a random copolymer.

[0092] The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can be prepared in various ways, for example starting from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide as monomers. Thus, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can be prepared in a known manner by an anionic polymerization process in which ethylene oxide and propylene oxide are reacted with an initiator compound and a strongly basic catalyst, such as potassium hydroxide or organic amines. The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can also be prepared in other ways. For example, instead of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, ethylene glycol and / or 1,2-propylene glycol can be used as monomers and polymerized with alkyl halides or alkyl sulfates under basic conditions. The initiator compound contains one or more etherifiable groups, such as hydroxyl or ether groups. The initiator compound can be monofunctional or polyfunctional.Preferably, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, C1-6 monoalcohols, preferably C« monoalcohols, for example methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, isobutanol, t-butanol, 1-t-butoxy-2-propanol, 2-methyl-2-propanol, and C1-10 polyols, preferably ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, in particular 1,2-propanediol, butanol, in particular 1,4-butanediol, glycerol, 1,1,1-trimethylolpropane, 1,1,1-trimethylolethane, 1,2,3-trihydroxybutane, pentaerythritol, xylitol, arabitol, mannitol, sucrose, sorbitol, alkylglucosides, such as methylglucoside, ethylglucoside and mixtures of this.

[0093] More preferably, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, C1-4 monoalcohols, for example methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol, n-butanol, isobutanol, t-butanol, 1-t-butoxy-2-propanol, 2-methyl-2-propanol and mixtures thereof.

[0094] The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is particularly preferably prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, C1-6 monoalcohols, in particular butanol, C2-4 dialcohols, in particular 1,2-propanediol, 1,2-ethanediol, butanol, in particular 1,4-butanediol, pentaerythritol, and mixtures thereof. The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is particularly preferably prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, butanol, 1,2-propanediol, 1,2-ethanediol, pentaerythritol, and mixtures thereof.

[0095] Further particularly preferably, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, butanol and mixtures thereof.

[0096] The initiator compound can determine the terminal groups of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2). The terminal groups can thus be introduced during the preparation of the ethylene oxide-propylene oxide copolymer. Alternatively or additionally, the terminal groups can be introduced by etherification reactions of ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers that have hydrogen as terminal groups.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is prepared starting from monomeric ethylene oxide and monomeric propylene oxide which has been reacted with an initiator compound selected from monofunctional initiator compounds, multifunctional initiator compounds or mixtures thereof.

[0098] When using a monofunctional initiator compound, an ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can be obtained that has only one chain of oxyalkylene groups. When using a multifunctional initiator compound, two or more chains of oxyalkylene groups of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can also be linked via a multifunctional initiator compound as a bridging group.

[0099] Multifunctional initiator compounds can thus determine bridging groups of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2). Alternatively or additionally, bridging groups can be introduced by etherification reactions starting from a hydrogen-terminated ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2).

[0100] When using a multifunctional initiator compound, an ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can be obtained which has several chains of oxyalkylene groups. The oxyalkylene groups are then linked to one another via a multifunctional initiator compound as a bridging group. In one embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has at least one bridging group selected from saturated hydrocarbon groups, for example alkylene groups. In a further embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has at least one bridging group selected from C2-4 alkanediyl, C3-6 alkanetriyl groups, and C8-salkanetetrayl groups. In a further embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has at least one bridging group selected from 1,2-propanediol, 1,2-ethanediol, butanol, in particular 1,4-butanediol, pentaerythritol, and mixtures thereof.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has terminal hydrogens, terminal C1-6 alkyl groups, preferably terminal C1-4 alkyl groups, bridging C2-4 alkanediyl groups, bridging C3-6 alkanetriyl groups and / or terminal Cs-s alkanetetrayl groups.

[0102] The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) particularly preferably has terminal hydrogens, terminal C1-4 alkyl groups, bridging C2-4 alkanediyl groups, and / or bridging C8-salkanetetrayl groups. In a very particularly preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has terminal hydrogens, terminal butyl groups, and / or terminal propanyl groups.

[0103] Preferably, at least 40 wt.%, for example 40 wt.% to 60 wt.%, of the terminal groups of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) are alkyl radicals, preferably C1-6 alkyl.

[0104] The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) can be an uncapped, monocapped, digecapped, tricapped, or tetracapped copolymer, or mixtures thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is an uncapped, monocapped, or digecapped copolymer, or mixtures thereof. Particularly preferably, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is an uncapped or monocapped copolymer, or mixtures thereof.

[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) comprises at least one structural group of the general formula (II) wherein

[0106] R is selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and C« alkyl, m = 3 to 20, n = 4 to 85 and wherein the order of the repeating units is arbitrary.

[0107] In the structural group of general formula (II), the order of the repeating units is random, so that this group is a statistical copolymer group. R is preferably selected from H and C—M alkyl.

[0108] The structural group of general formula (II) is linked to a terminal group or a bridging group via the serpentine bond. This terminal or bridging group is not shown above. The structural group of general formula (II) can be linked to further structural groups of general formula (II) via the bridging group. The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) preferably comprises 1 to 10, more preferably 1 to 4, structural groups of general formula (II).

[0109] Suitable terminal groups and bridging groups are described above and below.

[0110] In a preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is a compound of the general formula (III) wherein

[0111] R 1 and R 2 are independently selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and C1-4 alkyl, m = 3 to 20, preferably = 5 to 20, n = 4 to 85, preferably = 5 to 20, wherein the order of the repeating units is arbitrary; or a compound of the general formula (IV) wherein

[0112] R 1 and R 2 are independently selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and Ci-4 alkyl, R 3 and R 4are independently selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and C1-4 alkyl, in particular from H and methyl, each m is independently 3 to 20, each n is independently 4 to 85, wherein the order of the repeating units is arbitrary; or a compound of the general formula (V) wherein

[0113] R 1 , R 2 , R 3 and R 4 are independently selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and C1-4 alkyl, in particular H, each m is independently = 3 to 20, preferably = 4 to 20, each n is independently = 4 to 85, preferably = 4 to 50, wherein the order of the repeating units is arbitrary.

[0114] The order of the repeating units in the compounds of the general formulas (III), (IV) and (V) is arbitrary, so that these compounds are statistical copolymers.

[0115] For the purposes of the invention, the term "copolymer" refers to polymers composed of at least two different monomers, for example, two, three, four, or more different monomers (terpolymers, quaterpolymers, etc.). Preferably, however, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is composed of only two different monomers. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has only oxyethylene repeat units and oxymethylethylene repeat units. In a further preferred embodiment, the weight fraction of the oxyethylene repeat units in the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), based on the total weight of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), is at least 20 wt.%, for example 20 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably at least 30 wt.%, for example 30 wt.% to 80 wt.%, even more preferably at least 40 wt.%, for example 40 wt.% to 80 wt.%, in particular at least 50 wt.%, for example 50 wt% to 80 wt%.

[0116] In a further preferred embodiment, the weight fraction of the 1-oxymethylethylene repeat units in the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) based on the total weight of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is preferably at least 10 wt.%, for example 10 wt.% to 80 wt.%, more preferably at least 20 wt.%, for example 20 wt.% to 70 wt.%, more preferably 20 wt.% to 60 wt.%, in particular 20 wt.% to 50 wt.%.

[0117] In a further preferred embodiment, the weight fraction of the oxyethylene repeating units and oxymethylethylene repeating units taken together in the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) based on the total weight of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is preferably at least 90 wt.%, for example 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably at least 95 wt.%, for example 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%.

[0118] The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) may have repeating units other than oxyethylene repeating units and oxymethylethylene repeating units. However, the weight fraction of any repeating units other than oxyethylene repeating units and oxymethylethylene repeating units present, based on the total weight of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), is preferably less than 10 wt.%, more preferably less than 5 wt.%.

[0119] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) contains no repeating units other than oxyethylene repeating units and oxymethylethylene repeating units.

[0120] More preferably, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer has a molecular weight Mn, measured according to DIN 55672-1:2016-03 using THF as solvent and polystyrene as calibration standard, of 500 g / mol to 25,000 g / mol, preferably 1500 g / mol to 25,000 g / mol. Molecular weights of at least 1500 g / mol are particularly suitable for food products because of their favorable toxicological properties.

[0121] Preferably, the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer has a kinematic viscosity, determined according to ASTM-D-7042, September 2014 edition, at 40°C of 10 mm 2 / s up to 25000 mm 2 / s, preferably 15 mm 2 / s up to 17000 mm 2 / s, especially 40 mm 2 / s up to 20000 mm 2 / s, on.

[0122] The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer can, in principle, be prepared by organic chemistry synthesis methods known to those skilled in the art. Preparation starting from ethylene oxide and propylene oxide as monomers is preferred. Suitable solvents, temperatures, pressures, and other reaction conditions can be readily selected by a person skilled in the art. The starting materials are commercially available or can be readily prepared by a person skilled in the art.

[0123] Lubricant compositions

[0124] The invention relates to a lubricant composition comprising a) a base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-Ce alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0125] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive b). Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) and / or 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener c).

[0126] In a further embodiment, the lubricant composition contains 0 wt.% to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) and / or 0 wt.% to 45 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener c).

[0127] The term "base oil" or "base oil" corresponds to the usual meaning in the field of lubricants. Base oils or base oils contained in lubricant compositions that are liquid at room temperature (20°C) and standard pressure of 1013 hPa are preferred. Base oils or base oils can be assigned to Groups I, II, II+, III, IV or V according to the classification of the American Petroleum Institute (API) [(API 1509, Appendix E, September 2011)] or mixtures thereof. API Group I are mineral oils that consist, for example, of naphthenic or paraffin-based oils. If these mineral oils are chemically modified compared to API Group I oils, low in aromatics, low in sulfur and have a low proportion of saturates and thus improved viscosity / temperature behavior, the oils are classified according to API Group II and III.API Group III also includes so-called gas-to-liquid oils, which are not produced from the refining of crude oil, but rather through the chemical conversion of natural gas. Group IV oils are polyalphaolefins. Base oils that are not classified in Groups I-IV are assigned to Group V. The ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) belongs to Group V. Water is not a preferred base oil according to the invention.

[0128] According to the invention, a linguistic distinction is made between "base oil" and "base oil" to clarify that the "base oil" according to the invention can contain several base oils and thus different chemical compound classes. According to the invention, the base oil contains components a1) and a2) as base oils and, if appropriate, additionally base oils a3) different from a1) and a2). The proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0129] More preferably, the lubricant composition contains at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) in combination with at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) having a molecular weight Mn measured according to DIN 55672-1:2016-03 with THF as solvent and polystyrene as calibration standard of 1500 g / mol to 25 000 g / mol.

[0130] Polymers with a high molecular weight of 1500 g / mol to 25 000 g / mol are particularly suitable for use in lubricating equipment for the processing of food, beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed, as they have favorable toxicological properties.

[0131] The lubricant composition also preferably contains at least one C2-C5 alkanediol a1) in combination with at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) having a molecular weight Mn measured according to DIN 55672-1:2016-03 with THF as solvent and polystyrene as calibration standard of 1500 g / mol to 25 000 g / mol.

[0132] As explained above, the at least one additive b) is preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof.

[0133] In a preferred embodiment, the base oil consists of a1) at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, a3) optionally at least one base oil different from a1) and a2), wherein the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%. If present, the proportion of the base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) is preferably 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, even more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the base oil.

[0134] In a further preferred embodiment, the lubricant composition according to the invention consists of a) a base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0135] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, a3) optionally at least one base oil different from a1) and a2), b) optionally at least one additive, c) optionally at least one thickener.

[0136] In a further preferred embodiment, the proportion of the base oil, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, is 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 98 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 70 wt.% to 98 wt.%.

[0137] Likewise preferably, the proportion of the at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) based on the total weight of the base oil is from 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably from 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular from 18 wt.% to 35 wt.%. Likewise preferably, the proportion of the at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) based on the total weight of the base oil is from 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably from 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular from 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0138] If present, the proportion of base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) is preferably 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the base oil.

[0139] Likewise preferably, the proportion of the optionally present base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) is 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0140] In a preferred embodiment, the lubricant composition contains at least one additive b). The at least one additive b) preferably meets at least one of the following conditions: the additive is solid in the undissolved state at room temperature (20°C) and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa, and the proportion of the additive is less than 1 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0141] Additive b) also preferably has a solubility in the base oil (20°C) of at least 0.1 wt.%. Solubility is present when the additive forms a homogeneous phase with the base oil. To determine solubility, the mixture of base oil and additive b) is preferably first heated to 100°C while stirring, followed by cooling. The test for the formation of a homogeneous phase is carried out after cooling to 20°C.

[0142] Preferably, the additive b) is selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof.

[0143] Likewise preferably, the proportion of the optionally present at least one additive b) is 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0144] TI In a further embodiment of the invention, the proportion of the at least one additive b) is 0 wt.% to 15 wt.% based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment, the lubricant composition according to the invention contains no water or water only in a proportion of less than 10 wt.%, for example from 0 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably from 0.1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably from 0.1 wt.% to 6 wt.%, in particular from 0.1 wt.% to less than 3 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, wherein the proportion of water is determined coulometrically according to Karl Fischer in accordance with DIN 51777:2016-08.

[0146] In addition to the at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), the lubricant composition may contain at least one base oil a3) different therefrom.

[0147] If present, the proportion of the base oil other than a1) and a2), based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, is preferably 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%.

[0148] Preferably, however, in addition to the at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), the lubricant composition contains no base oil different therefrom and / or a base oil different therefrom a3) only in a proportion of less than 15% by weight, more preferably less than 8% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight, more preferably less than 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the base oil and / or a base oil different therefrom a3) only in a proportion of less than 15% by weight, more preferably less than 8% by weight, more preferably less than 5% by weight, more preferably less than 3% by weight, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0149] A special lubricant composition therefore contains a) a base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-Ce alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably 55

[0150] Wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, a3) 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably

[0151] 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil different from a1) and a2), b) optionally at least one additive, preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction value modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof, c) optionally at least one thickener.

[0152] If present, the lubricant composition according to the invention contains the at least one further base oil a3) different from the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), preferably in an amount of 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the base oil.

[0153] If the lubricant composition contains at least one base oil a3) different from the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), this is preferably selected from esters, ethers, with the exception of ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2), with ethylene oxide homopolymers and 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers being preferred ethers, linear or branched perfluoropolyether oils (PFPE oils), synthetic hydrocarbons, mineral oils, untreated and chemically modified vegetable oils, Group III oils, gas to liquid (GTL) oils, reraffinates and recyclates, polyalphaolefins (PAO), silicone oils, polyisobutenes and mixtures thereof.

[0154] Preferably, the base oil a3) different from the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is selected from esters, ethers, excluding ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2), with ethylene oxide homopolymers and 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers being preferred ethers, linear or branched perfluoropolyether oils (PFPE oils), synthetic hydrocarbons, untreated and chemically modified vegetable oils, Group III oils, gas to liquid (GTL) oils, reraffinates and recyclates, polyalphaolefins (PAO), silicone oils, polyisobutenes and mixtures thereof.

[0155] Preferably, the base oil other than the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is not water.

[0156] Preferably, the base oil a3) different from the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is selected from esters, ethers, with the exception of ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2), with ethylene oxide homopolymers and 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers being preferred ethers, and mixtures thereof.

[0157] Particularly preferably, the base oil a3) is selected from polyglycols, excluding ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2), ethylene oxide homopolymers and 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers being preferred polyglycols, and mixtures thereof.

[0158] Most preferably, the base oil a3) is selected from ethylene oxide homopolymers, 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers and mixtures thereof.

[0159] Preferred esters for the base oil a3) are selected from an aliphatic or aromatic di-, tri- or tetracarboxylic acid with one or more Cybis 022 alcohols present in admixture, esters of trimethylolpropane, pentaerythritol or dipentaerythritol with aliphatic Cybis 022 carboxylic acids, cis-dimer acid esters with Cybis 022 alcohols, as well as complex esters and estolides and mixtures thereof.

[0160] Particularly preferred esters for the base oil a3) are selected from pentaerythritol esters, dipentaerythritol esters, trimellitic acid esters, hemimellitic acid esters, pyromellitic acid esters, estolides, dimer acid esters, trimer acid esters, trimethylolpropane esters (TMP esters), neopentyl glycol esters, dicarboxylic acid esters and mixtures thereof.

[0161] Ethers for the base oil a3) do not include ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2). Preferred ethers for the base oil a3) are selected from polyphenyl ether, diaryl ether, triaryl ether, tetrahydrofuran (THF) polymers, polyglycols, excluding ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers, and mixtures thereof.

[0162] Particularly preferred ethers for the base oil a3) are polyglycols, excluding ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2). Preferred polyglycols are polyglycol homopolymers, copolymers of ethylene oxide, excluding ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers, and mixtures thereof. For the purposes of the invention, the term "copolymer" also refers to polymers composed of three, four, or more different monomers (terpolymers, quaterpolymers, etc.).

[0163] Suitable polyglycol homopolymers include polypropylene glycols, polybutylene glycols, polytetrahydrofurans, and mixtures thereof. Suitable copolymers include ethylene oxide / butylene oxide copolymers and propylene oxide / butylene oxide copolymers. The copolymers can be block copolymers or random copolymers.

[0164] Particularly preferred polyglycol homopolymers are propylene oxide homopolymers. Particularly preferred copolymers are propylene oxide / butylene oxide copolymers, preferably initiated with monoalcohols, especially C4-C12 alcohols.

[0165] Linear or branched perfluoropolyether oils (PFPE oils) are also possible as base oils a3). Suitable perfluoropolyether oils are, for example, selected from perfluoropolyethers (PFPE) of the formula:

[0166] R A -(O-CF2)v-(O-C2F4)w-(O-C3F6)x-(O-CFCF3)y-(O-CF2CF(CF3))zOR B where R A and R Bare identical or different, and are selected from -CF3, -C2F5 and -C3F7, and v, w, x, y, z are integers from > 0 to 500. PFPE oils are marketed, for example, under the brand names Aflunox®, Krytox®, Fomblin® and Demnum®.

[0167] Synthetic hydrocarbons, mineral oils, and mixtures thereof are also possible as base oils a3). Group III oils are also possible as base oils a3). Group III oils (hydrocracked synthetic oils) are synthetic hydrocarbons derived from petroleum base oils, produced entirely by hydrocracking, hydroisomerization, and hydrodesulfurization. They have a minimum of 90 percent saturates and a maximum of 0.03 percent sulfur, as well as a viscosity index of at least 120.

[0168] GTL oils (gas-to-liquids oils) are also advantageous as base oils a3). GTL oils are based on synthesis gas consisting of hydrogen and carbon monoxide, from which longer-chain hydrocarbons are produced using Fischer-Tropsch synthesis.

[0169] Polyalphaolefins (PAO) are also advantageously suitable as base oils a3). Polyalphaolefins are also referred to as Group IV oils and generally have a viscosity index in the range of 125 to 200. Polyalphaolefins can be produced catalytically from ethylene using known processes, initially yielding alphaolefins with longer chain lengths as intermediates. From these, the polyalphaolefins are essentially synthesized by oligomerization, generally resulting in isoparaffins with a varying number of equally long side chains. The synthesis can be carried out by acid-catalyzed (conventional) or metallocene-catalyzed olefin polymerization (mPAO). Conventional PAOs exhibit a high degree of isomerization, whereas metallocene oligomerization results in products that are essentially free of isomerization. Suitable polyalphaolefins include:the oligomers, preferably the dimers, trimers, tetramers, pentamers, and higher oligomers with more than 5 repeating units of alpha-olefins, and mixtures of these oligomers. The alpha-olefins used to produce the polyalphaolefins are preferably selected from C18-C14 alpha-olefins, in particular 1-octene, 1-decene, 1-dodecene, and mixtures thereof.

[0170] Silicone oils are also conceivable as base oils a3). Dimethyl silicone oils can be used as base oils a3).

[0171] In a further preferred embodiment, the base oil a3) has a kinematic viscosity, determined according to ASTM-D-7042, September 2014 edition, at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 6000 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 1500 mm 2 / s, especially at 40°C of 45 mm 2 / s up to 700 mm 2 / s. In a further preferred embodiment, the base oil a) has a kinematic viscosity, determined according to ASTM-D-7042, September 2014 edition, at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 6000 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 1500 mm 2 / s, especially at 40°C of 45 mm 2 / s up to 700 mm 2 / s on.

[0172] In a preferred embodiment, the proportion of additive b) based on the total weight of the lubricant composition is 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%.

[0173] The proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0174] A preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a lubricant composition comprising: a) 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 98 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 70 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0175] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive. The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.% and / or the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0176] The proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0177] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) and / or 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener.

[0178] A further preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a lubricant composition comprising: a) 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 98 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 70 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, wherein the proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol based on the total weight of the base oil is 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.%, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0179] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, wherein the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, based on the total weight of the base oil, is 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%, c) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0180] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) and / or 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener.

[0181] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricant composition contains 6 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of mineral oil and 55 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2).

[0182] A further preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a lubricant composition containing: a) 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, based on the total weight of the

[0183] Lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, wherein the C2-C6 alkanediol is preferably a C2-C6 alkanediol which has no substituent or has only one substituent on the main carbon chain, wherein the only one substituent is selected from C1-C3 alkyl radicals, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl radicals, in particular methyl and ethyl radicals, a2) 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, wherein the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) preferably has at least one structural group of the general formula (II) includes, wherein

[0184] R is selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and C1-4 alkyl, m = 3 to 20, n = 4 to 85 and wherein the order of the repeating units is arbitrary, wherein the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, a3) optionally 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one base oil different from a1) and a2), preferably selected from esters, ethers, with the exception of ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2), wherein ethylene oxide homopolymers and 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers are preferred ethers, linear or branched perfluoropolyether oils (PFPE oils), synthetic hydrocarbons, mineral oils, untreated and chemically modified vegetable oils, Group III oils, gas to liquid (GTL) oils, reraffinates and recyclates, polyalphaolefins (PAO), silicone oils, polyisobutenes and mixtures thereof, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one additive, preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction value modifiers, additives for improving the.

[0185] High pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof, c) optionally 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one thickener, preferably selected from metal simple soaps of elements of the first main group, metal simple soaps of elements of the second main group, aluminum simple soaps, metal complex soaps of elements of the first main group, metal complex soaps of elements of the second main group, aluminum complex soaps, urea thickeners, metal sulfonate thickeners, inorganic or organic solid lubricants, preferably wax, in particular native wax, polyethylene wax, polypropylene wax, paraffin wax, montan wax, microcrystalline wax, polyamide wax, polyester wax, metal phosphates, metal oxides, metal carbonates, boron nitride, carbon black, graphite, metal chalcogenides, fully fluorinated polymeric substances, fluorine-free polymers, silicon-containing oxides and mixtures of two or more of these thickeners.

[0186] A further preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a lubricant composition containing: a) 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, based on the total weight of the

[0187] Lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, wherein the C2-C6 alkanediol is preferably a C2-C6 alkanediol which has no substituent or has only one substituent on the main carbon chain, wherein the only one substituent is selected from C1-C3 alkyl radicals, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl radicals, in particular methyl and ethyl radicals, a2) 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, wherein the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) preferably has at least one structural group of the general formula (II) includes, wherein

[0188] R is selected from H and C1-6 alkyl, preferably from H and C1-4 alkyl, m = 3 to 20, n = 4 to 85 and wherein the order of the repeating units is arbitrary, wherein the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is 80 wt.% to 100 wt.% a3) 0 wt.% to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one base oil different from a1) and a2), preferably selected from esters, ethers, excluding ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymers a2), wherein ethylene oxide homopolymers and 1,2-propylene oxide homopolymers are preferred ethers, linear or branched perfluoropolyether oils (PFPE oils), synthetic hydrocarbons, mineral oils, untreated and chemically modified vegetable oils, Group III oils, gas to liquid (GTL) oils, reraffinates and recyclates, polyalphaolefins (PAO), silicone oils, polyisobutenes and mixtures thereof, b) 0 wt.% to 15 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive, preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction value modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof, c) 0 wt.% to 45 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one thickener, preferably selected from metal simple soaps of elements of the first main group, metal simple soaps of elements of the second main group, aluminum simple soaps, metal complex soaps of elements of the first main group, metal complex soaps of elements of the second main group, aluminum complex soaps, urea thickeners, metal sulfonate thickeners, inorganic or organic solid lubricants, preferably wax, in particular native wax, polyethylene wax, polypropylene wax, paraffin wax, montan wax, microcrystalline wax, polyamide wax, polyester wax, metal phosphates, metal oxides, metal carbonates, boron nitride, carbon black, graphite, metal chalcogenides, fully fluorinated polymeric substances, fluorine-free polymers, silicon-containing oxides and mixtures of two or more of these thickeners.

[0189] Lubricating oils and greases

[0190] The lubricant compositions according to the invention can be designed either as a lubricating oil or as a lubricating grease. Lubricating greases are compositions that contain a liquid phase (at room temperature 20°C and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa) and solids. Thus, in contrast to lubricating oils, lubricating greases contain at least one thickener as an additive. Thickeners are solid substances that are almost or completely insoluble in the base oils (insoluble solids) and have a thickening effect. Thickener c) preferably has a solubility in the base oil at 20°C of less than 0.1% by weight, more preferably less than 0.05% by weight. No solubility is present if thickener c) does not form a homogeneous phase with the base oil. To determine solubility, the mixture of base oil and thickener c) is preferably heated to 100°C while simultaneously stirring, followed by cooling. The test to determine whether a homogeneous phase is formed is carried out after cooling to 20°C.

[0191] In lubricating greases, the proportion of thickener c) is preferably at least 3 wt.%. Thickeners can also influence friction and wear. A special embodiment of such thickeners are inorganic and organic solid lubricants.

[0192] Lubricating oils can also be distinguished from lubricating greases by various phenomenological characteristics. One phenomenological difference is that, at least at low shear rates (especially in the range of 10 s -1 up to 100 s' 1 ) Lubricating oils exhibit Newtonian flow behavior, while lubricating greases also exhibit low shear rates (especially in the range of 10 s -1 up to 100 s -1 ) show a deviation from Newtonian flow behavior.

[0193] To check whether Newtonian flow behaviour is present, the shear viscosity can be measured at 2 (preferably at 10 s -1 and at 100 s -1) different shear rates. The shear viscosity can be measured according to the standard DIN 51810 (April 2017, Sheet 1: Shear viscosity with rotational viscometer and the cone / plate measuring system) with the deviation that the shear rate is limited to the values ​​tested (10 s -1 ;100 s' 1 ). The temperature during measurement is 25°C.

[0194] If the shear viscosity is the same at both different shear rates, the fluid exhibits Newtonian behavior and is a lubricating oil. If the shear viscosity is different at the two different shear rates, the fluid does not exhibit Newtonian flow behavior and is therefore a lubricating grease. If individual lubricants that contain a liquid phase and solids (at room temperature of 20°C and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa) exceptionally behave phenomenologically like lubricating oils, they are still considered lubricating greases.

[0195] The consistency of lubricating greases can be determined using a standardized measurement method in the form of worked penetration according to DIN ISO 2137, December 2016 edition. The worked penetration is measured after the lubricating grease has been worked in a grease kneader or lubricating grease walker using a penetrometer as the penetration depth of a standard cone under defined conditions. The measured cone penetration is then assigned to a defined NLGI class (NLGI = National Lubricating Grease Institute) according to DIN 51818 DIN 51818-2024-02. When measured according to DIN ISO 2137, December 2016 edition, lubricating greases according to the invention preferably exhibit a worked penetration of 85 to 475, more preferably 220 to 340 cone penetration in 0.1 mm.

[0196] The lubricant composition according to the invention is preferably in the form of a lubricating oil. The combination of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is particularly suitable for this purpose, since a1) and a2) exhibit particularly good friction values ​​for transmission applications, where lubricating oils are generally used.

[0197] If a component used in the lubricant compositions according to the invention has multiple effects, e.g., as a thickener and friction modifier, it is only considered once in terms of quantity. Lubricating oil

[0198] A preferred embodiment of the invention is a lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating oil.

[0199] A particularly preferred embodiment of the invention is a lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating oil, comprising a) a base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0200] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0201] For the lubricant compositions in the form of a lubricating oil, the embodiments of the lubricant composition according to the invention described above and below apply mutatis mutandis.

[0202] For example, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%. Optionally, the lubricant composition designed as a lubricating oil contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, even more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0203] In a further preferred embodiment, the lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating oil contains the base oil in an amount of 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 85 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 90 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0204] In a further preferred embodiment, the additive (b) is selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof.

[0205] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricant composition according to the invention, when formed as a lubricating oil, has a kinematic viscosity, determined according to ASTM-D-7042, September 2014 edition, at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 6000 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 1500 mm 2 / s, especially at 40°C of 45 mm 2 / s up to 700 mm 2 / s on.

[0206] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricant composition according to the invention, in the form of a lubricating oil, has a kinematic viscosity, determined according to ASTM-D-7042, September 2014 edition, at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 100 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 68 mm 2 / s, especially at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 46 mm 2 / s. These viscosities are particularly suitable for lubricating transmissions in electric vehicles, especially wet or dry electric axles.

[0207] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the lubricant composition according to the invention, when formed as a lubricating oil, has a kinematic viscosity, determined according to ASTM-D-7042, September 2014 edition, at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 25,000 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 3200 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 20 mm 2 / s up to 1500 mm 2 / s, more preferably at 40°C of 68 mm 2 / s up to 680 mm 2 / s, especially at 40°C of 100 mm 2 / s up to 460 mm 2 / s. These viscosities are particularly suitable for lubricating gears of equipment used in the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed, as they have favorable toxicological properties. A preferred embodiment of the invention is a lubricant composition in

[0208] Form of a lubricating oil, containing a) 80 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 85 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 90 wt.% to 98 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0209] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive.

[0210] Optionally, the lubricant composition formed as a lubricating oil contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0211] The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.% and / or the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0212] Furthermore, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to

[0213] 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0214] As explained above, the at least one additive b) is preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof.

[0215] Grease

[0216] In a further embodiment of the invention, a lubricant composition is in the form of a lubricating grease.

[0217] In a preferred embodiment, the lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating grease contains a) a base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-Ce alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably

[0218] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive, c) 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener. For lubricant compositions in the form of a lubricating grease, the embodiments of the lubricant composition according to the invention described above and below apply mutatis mutandis.

[0219] Thus, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0220] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2).

[0221] In a further preferred embodiment, the lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating grease contains the base oil in an amount of 50 wt.% to 97 wt.%, preferably 60 wt.% to 95 wt.%, more preferably 70 wt.% to 93 wt.%, in particular 80 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0222] More preferably, a lubricant composition according to the invention designed as a lubricating grease contains: a) 50 wt.% to 97 wt.%, preferably 60 wt.% to 95 wt.%, even more preferably 70 wt.% to 93 wt.%, in particular 80 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, base oil containing a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, even more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, even more preferably

[0223] 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer, b) optionally 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one additive, c) 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one thickener.

[0224] Optionally, the lubricant composition contains 1 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, more preferably 2.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one base oil different from a1) and a2).

[0225] The proportion of the C2-C6 alkanediol based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 10 wt.% to 40 wt.%, preferably 15 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 18 wt.% to 35 wt.% and / or the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer based on the total weight of the base oil is preferably 46 wt.% to 90 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 85 wt.%, in particular 65 wt.% to 82 wt.%.

[0226] Furthermore, the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is preferably at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

[0227] In a further preferred embodiment, the additive b) is selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof.

[0228] Thickener c) The lubricant composition in the form of a lubricating grease contains at least one thickener c). The thickener c) preferably has a solubility in the base oil a) at 20°C of less than 0.1 wt.%, more preferably less than 0.05 wt.%. Solubility is present when the thickener c) forms a homogeneous phase with the base oil a). To determine solubility, the mixture of base oil and thickener c) is preferably heated to 120°C while stirring, followed by cooling. The test for whether a homogeneous phase is formed is carried out after cooling to 20°C.

[0229] The proportion of the at least one thickener c) is preferably 3 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 4 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 5 wt.% to 25 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0230] Preferably, the thickener c) is selected from metal simple soaps of elements of the first main group, metal simple soaps of elements of the second main group, aluminum simple soaps, metal complex soaps of elements of the first main group, metal complex soaps of elements of the second main group, aluminum complex soaps, urea thickeners, metal sulfonate thickeners, inorganic or organic solid lubricants, preferably wax, in particular native wax, polyethylene wax, polypropylene wax, paraffin wax, montan wax, microcrystalline wax, polyamide wax, polyester wax, metal phosphates, metal oxides, metal carbonates, boron nitride, carbon black, graphite, metal chalcogenides, fully fluorinated polymeric substances, fluorine-free polymers, silicon-containing oxides and mixtures of two or more of these thickeners.

[0231] Metal monosoaps suitable as thickeners c) are preferably metal monosoaps of the elements of the first and second main groups of the Periodic Table, especially lithium soaps. The metal monosoaps are preferably derived from at least one saturated or unsaturated C5-22 fatty acid, preferably at least one C14-20 fatty acid, or a derivative thereof. This includes, for example, hydrogenated castor oil, i.e., the glyceride of 12-hydroxystearic acid. In a preferred embodiment, the thickener c) comprises at least one lithium soap. Particularly preferred lithium soaps are lithium salts of stearic acid.

[0232] Metal complex soaps suitable as thickeners c) are preferably metal complex soaps of the elements of the first and second main groups of the periodic table, such as lithium complex soaps, sodium complex soaps, calcium complex soaps, and aluminum complex soaps. Lithium complex soaps are preferred.

[0233] Suitable metal complex soaps can be obtained by reacting a metal base (such as a hydroxide, oxide or carbonate) with c1) at least one carboxylic acid component having 10 to 32 carbon atoms, preferably selected from unsaturated or saturated C10-C32 monocarboxylic acids or unsaturated or saturated C10-C32 hydroxy monocarboxylic acids and derivatives of said C10-C32 monocarboxylic acids and C10-C32 hydroxy monocarboxylic acids and c2) at least one complexing agent.

[0234] Component c1) is preferably selected from saturated or unsaturated C12-C22 monocarboxylic acids, saturated or unsaturated C12-C22 hydroxymonocarboxylic acids, and their esters and mixtures. In particular, the monocarboxylic acids and hydroxymonocarboxylic acids c1) are selected from lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, arachidic acid, myristoleic acid, palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, behenic acid, 12-hydroxystearic acid, 17-hydroxystearic acid, 2-hydroxytetradecanoic acid, 3-hydroxytetradecanoic acid, 2-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid, 3-hydroxyhexadecanoic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0235] The complexing agent c2) is preferably selected from saturated or unsaturated C2-C16 dicarboxylic acids, saturated or unsaturated C2-C5 hydroxymonocarboxylic acids, derivatives, and mixtures thereof. Particularly suitable dicarboxylic acids b2) are adipic acid, sebacic acid, azelaic acid, 3-tert-butyladipic acid, and their esters and mixtures. Hydroxybenzoic acids, e.g., salicylic acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, 2-hydroxy-4-hexylbenzoic acid, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 2,6-dihydroxybenzoic acid, 4-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzoic acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0236] Most preferably, the lithium complex soap comprises lithium salts of 12-hydroxystearic acid combined with azelaic acid or sebacic acid, in particular 12-hydroxystearic acid combined with azelaic acid.

[0237] In a preferred embodiment, the thickener c) is a urea thickener, in particular an alkylated and / or arylated (oligo)urea. Preferred urea thickeners are the reaction products of at least one diisocyanate with at least one amine selected from monoamines, polyamines, and mixtures thereof. The diisocyanate is preferably selected from 2,4-diisocyanatotoluene, 2,6-diisocyanatotoluene, 4,4'-diisocyanatodiphenylmethane, 2,4'-diisocyanatophenylmethane, 4,4'-diisocyanatodiphenyl, 4,4'-diisocyanato-3,3'-dimethylphenyl, 4,4'-diisocyanato-3,3'-dimethylphenylmethane, and mixtures thereof.

[0238] Preferably, the amine is selected from monoamines of the formula R a 2N-R b , diamines of the formula R a 2N-R c -NR a 2 and mixtures thereof, wherein

[0239] R a is independently selected from hydrogen, linear or branched Ci-C 22 -alkyl and C6-Ci4-aryl,

[0240] R b is independently selected from linear or branched Ci-C 22 -alkyl and C6-C14-aryl radicals,

[0241] R c a divalent bridging group, preferably consisting of Ci-C 22 -alkylene and Ce-Ci4-arylene.

[0242] Metal sulfonate thickeners suitable as thickeners c) are, in particular, calcium sulfonate thickeners. Calcium sulfonate thickeners specifically contain crystalline calcium carbonate in the form of calcite and calcium salts of acids, especially aromatic sulfonic acids, most preferably alkylbenzenesulfonic acids, carboxylic acids, especially stearic acid, 12-hydroxystearic acid, acetic acid, boric acid, and mixtures thereof.

[0243] Waxes suitable as thickeners c) include, in particular, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyamide (PA) wax. The wax preferably has a melting or decomposition point, measured according to DIN EN ISO 11357-1, edition 2008.04, of greater than 100°C.

[0244] Metal chalcogenides suitable as thickeners c) are in particular molybdenum disulfide, tungsten disulfide and metal selenides.

[0245] Highly fluorinated polymeric substances suitable as thickeners c) include, in particular, PTFE. However, this is not a preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0246] Further suitable thickeners c) are fluorine-free components that differ from the previously mentioned thickeners b1). The fluorine-free components preferably have an average particle size (D50) of less than 80 pm, for example 1 pm to 80 pm, more preferably from 1 pm to 50 pm, even more preferably from 1 pm to 20 pm, in particular from 1 pm to 15 pm, each measured according to ISO 13320-1, edition 2020-01. Preferred further fluorine-free components are boron nitride, carbon black, graphite, graphene, tin(IV) sulfide, zinc(II) sulfide, and tungsten sulfide. Preferred further fluorine-free components are talc, bentonite, mica, and fumed silicon dioxide, which may be functionalized with organic groups. A special type of bentonite is montmorillonite, whose sodium ions may be partially or completely exchanged for ammonium ions. Other suitable fluorine-free thickeners b1) are aluminosilicates, aluminum oxide and silica (e.g. Aerosil).Other suitable fluorine-free thickeners c) include nanoparticulate silicon dioxide functionalized with organic groups, zinc pyrophosphate, calcium (pyro)phosphate, and zirconium hydrogen phosphate. Other suitable fluorine-free thickeners c) include melamine derivatives selected from melamine cyanurate, melamine phosphate, and 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6 (1H,3H,5H)-trithione.

[0247] In a further preferred embodiment, the thickener c) is a combination of two or more of the aforementioned further thickeners.

[0248] Additives b:

[0249] The lubricant composition according to the invention may comprise at least one additive b). The at least one additive b) is preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, free radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction modifiers, additives for improving high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers, and mixtures thereof.

[0250] The lubricant composition contains the at least one additive b) preferably in an amount of 0.3 wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0251] Corrosion inhibitors

[0252] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one corrosion inhibitor as additive b).

[0253] Corrosion inhibitors neutralize acidic reaction products, e.g., from the oxidation of the base oil or additive degradation. This reduces or prevents corrosive attack. Suitable corrosion inhibitors are the salts of various acids, such as sulfonates, naphthenates, carboxylates, amine phosphates, succinic acid monoesters, or partial polyol esters. The corrosion inhibitor is preferably selected from calcium sulfonates, preferably overbased calcium sulfonates with a base number (TBN) of 100 to 500 mg KOH / g, phosphates (partially) neutralized with amines, alkylated calcium naphthalenesulfonates, compounds containing oxazoline groups and / or compounds containing imidazole groups, succinic acid monoesters, benzotriazole, N-alkylated benzotriazoles, and mixtures thereof.

[0254] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one corrosion inhibitor in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably of at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably of 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular of at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0255] Antioxidants

[0256] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one antioxidant as an additive.

[0257] Antioxidants increase resistance to aging caused by oxidative and / or thermal stress at the lubrication point. Oxidation can produce acids and oil-insoluble components, which form contaminants that can settle on the lubrication point.

[0258] Suitable antioxidants are aromatic amine antioxidants such as alkylated phenyl-alpha-naphthylamine, dialkyldiphenylamine, aralkylated diphenylamine, sterically hindered phenols such as butylhydroxytoluene (BHT), bis-2,6-di-t-butylphenol derivatives, sulfur-containing hindered phenols, sulfur-containing hindered bisphenol, and mixtures thereof.

[0259] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one antioxidant in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably from at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably from 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular from at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition. Metal deactivators

[0260] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one metal deactivator (additive for protection against metal influences) as an additive.

[0261] Various metals, such as copper and its compounds, are catalysts for the formation of peroxides and thus contribute to oxidation. Suitable metal deactivators are chelating agents that passivate the metal surface. Non-limiting examples of metal deactivators are triazoles or thiadiazoles, especially aryltriazoles such as benzotriazole and tolyltriazole, alkyl derivatives of such triazoles, and benzothiadiazoles such as R(CeH3)N2S, where R is H or C1- to C8-alkyl.

[0262] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one metal deactivator in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably of at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably of 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular of at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0263] Wear protection agents

[0264] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one wear protection agent as an additive.

[0265] Wear protection agents are used to prevent wear caused by tribological processes, such as fluid and mixed friction

[0266] The antiwear agent is preferably selected from amine-neutralized phosphates, alkylated and non-alkylated triaryl phosphates, alkylated and non-alkylated triaryl thiophosphates, Zn, Mo or W dialkyldithiophosphates, Zn, Mo or W diaryldithiophosphates, carbamates, thiocarbamates, Zn, Mo or W dithiocarbamates, dimercaptothiadiazoles, organoborates, organophosphites and mixtures thereof.

[0267] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one wear protection agent in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably from at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably from 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular from at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition. Viscosity index improver

[0268] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one viscosity index improver (VI improver) as an additive.

[0269] Examples of VI improvers are olefin copolymers, polyalkyl methacrylates and dispersing olefin copolymers.

[0270] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one VI improver in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably of at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably of 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular of at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0271] Extreme pressure additives

[0272] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one extreme pressure additive as an additive.

[0273] High-pressure additives act as topcoating agents and / or surface-active substances.

[0274] Preferred extreme pressure additives are selected from thiophosphates such as zinc dithiophosphate, molybdenum oxide sulfide dithiophosphate, molybdenum amine compounds, sulfur compounds such as sulfurized oils and fats, sulfurized fatty acids, sulfurized fatty acid esters, alkylated polysulfides and mixtures thereof.

[0275] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one high-pressure additive in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably of at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably of 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular of at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0276] Pour point improvers

[0277] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one pour point depressant as an additive. Preferred additives for improving the pour point are selected from linear or branched, alkylated, acrylated, and / or aliphatic polymers and copolymers, which can be used individually or in combination. A specific example of a pour point depressant is polyalkyl methacrylate.

[0278] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one pour point improver in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably of at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably of 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular of at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0279] Adhesion improver

[0280] The lubricant composition according to the invention may contain at least one adhesion improver as an additive.

[0281] Preferred additives to improve adhesion are selected from long-chain polar polymers that give the oil or grease increased adhesion to the surface to be lubricated.

[0282] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one adhesion improver in an amount of at least 0.1 wt.%, for example from 0.1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, more preferably of at least 0.5 wt.%, even more preferably of 0.5 wt.% to 5 wt.%, in particular of at least 1.0 wt.%, for example from 1 wt.% to 5 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0283] Defoamers

[0284] The lubricant composition according to the invention preferably contains at least one defoamer in an amount of at least 0.01 wt.%, preferably from 0.01 wt.% to 0.1 wt.%, particularly preferably from 0.01 wt.% to 0.05 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

[0285] Preferred defoamers are selected from silicon dioxide, silicone oils, (poly)acrylates, and mixtures thereof. Uses

[0286] A further subject of the invention is the use of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) in combination with at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), where a1) and a2) are as defined above and below, optionally in combination with at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2), as a base oil of a lubricant composition for lubricating tribological systems, preferably selected from gears, in particular industrial gears, gears in electric vehicles, gears that are components of power tools, large gears, for example a) gears for heavy industry, in particular gears in plants for the production of cement, gears in plants for the production of steel, gears in plants for the extraction of raw materials, preferably mineral raw materials, gears in plants for the processing of highly viscous raw materials, such as elastomers, b) gears in conveyor systems, in particular for the transport of bulk material,c) ship propulsion systems, d) wind turbines and / or gearboxes of working equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed and / or selected from warehouses, in particular warehouses in industrial plants, warehouses in vehicles such as automobiles, warehouses that are components of power tools and / or warehouses of working equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0287] Particularly preferably, at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) in combination with at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), where a1) and a2) are as defined above and below, optionally in combination with at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2), is used as base oil of a lubricant composition for lubricating closed gears, preferably gears of power tools, gears of wind turbines, gears of electric vehicles and / or closed gears of work equipment for processing food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0288] Power tools are tools that are powered by electricity, batteries, or compressed air, in contrast to manual tools that require physical effort to operate. Preferred power tools include drills, saws, grinders, nail pliers, and impact wrenches. They are frequently used in construction, woodworking, metalworking, and other industries, as well as for DIY projects around the home. Large gears are gears that contain an oil volume of at least 200 l at room temperature (20°C) and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa. The invention further relates to the use of a lubricant composition according to the invention according to one or more of the embodiments described above and below for lubricating tribological systems, preferably selected from gears, in particular industrial gears, gears in electric vehicles, gears that are components of power tools, large gears,for example a) gearboxes for heavy industry, in particular gearboxes in cement production plants, gearboxes in steel production plants, gearboxes in raw material extraction plants, preferably mineral raw materials, gearboxes in plants for processing highly viscous raw materials such as elastomers, b) gearboxes in conveyor systems, in particular for transporting bulk materials, c) ship propulsion systems, d) wind turbines and / or gearboxes of work equipment for processing food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed and / or selected from bearings, in particular bearings in industrial plants, bearings in vehicles such as automobiles, bearings that are components of power tools and / or bearings of work equipment for processing food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0289] A lubricant composition according to the invention according to one or more of the embodiments described above and below is particularly preferably used for lubricating closed gears, preferably gears of power tools, gears of wind turbines, gears of electric vehicles and / or closed gears of work equipment for processing food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0290] A further subject matter of the invention is the use of a lubricant composition according to the invention according to one or more of the embodiments described above and below, designed as a lubricating oil, which contains at least one C2-C6 alkanediol a1) in combination with at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2), where a1) and a2) are as defined above and below, optionally in combination with at least one base oil a3) different from a1) and a2) as base oil, optionally in combination with at least one additive b) and / or at least one thickener c), for lubricating tribological systems, preferably selected from gears, in particular industrial gears, gears in electric vehicles, gears that are components of power tools, large gears, for example a) gears for heavy industry, in particular gears in plants for the production of cement, gears in plants for steel production,Gears in plants for the extraction of raw materials, preferably mineral raw materials, gears in plants for the processing of highly viscous raw materials, such as elastomers, b) gears in conveyor systems, in particular for the transport of bulk material, c) ship propulsion systems, d) wind turbines and / or gears of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed and / or selected from bearings, in particular bearings in industrial plants, bearings in vehicles, such as automobiles, bearings that are components of power tools and / or bearings of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

[0291] Preferred uses include gears that are components of power tools and / or industrial gears. Particularly preferred is the lubrication of equipment used in the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and / or animal feed.

[0292] Open and closed gears can be lubricated. In a preferred embodiment, closed gears are lubricated, as the system's properties can be maintained particularly well.

[0293] A further subject matter of the invention is a tribological system, preferably selected from gears, preferably closed gears and / or bearings, which contains a lubricant composition according to one or more of the embodiments described above and below.

[0294] The tribological system is preferably selected from gears, in particular industrial gears, gears in electric vehicles, gears which are components of power tools, large gears, for example a) gears for heavy industry, in particular gears in plants for the production of cement, gears in plants for steel production, gears in plants for the extraction of raw materials, preferably mineral raw materials, gears in plants for the processing of highly viscous raw materials, such as elastomers b) gears in conveyor systems, in particular for the transport of bulk material, c) ship propulsion systems, d) wind turbines and / or gears of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed and / or selected from bearings, in particular bearings in industrial plants, bearings in vehicles, such as automobiles, bearings,which are components of power tools and / or storage of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or,

[0295] Animal feed. The aforementioned transmissions are preferably enclosed transmissions.

[0296] Preferred tribological systems are gears that are components of power tools and / or gears in electric vehicles, particularly wet or dry electric axles. Particularly preferred tribological systems are tools for processing food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and / or animal feed. Particularly preferred gears are enclosed gears.

[0297] Character description

[0298] Figure 1: Stribeck curves at 40°C of compositions according to the invention and

[0299] Comparative compositions

[0300] Figure 2: Traction curves at 40°C of compositions according to the invention and

[0301] Comparative compositions

[0302] Figure 3: Stribeck curves at 40°C of compositions according to the invention and

[0303] Comparative compositions

[0304] Figure 4: Traction curves at 40°C of compositions according to the invention and

[0305] Comparative compositions

[0306] Figure 5: Stribeck curves at 40°C of Example 9 according to the invention and of

[0307] Comparison example 4

[0308] Figure 6 Traction curves at 40°C of Example 9 according to the invention and Comparative Example 4

[0309] The following examples serve to illustrate the invention without limiting it in any way.

[0310] EXAMPLES

[0311] I. Application examples In the following application examples, all kinematic viscosities are given in mm 2 / s. All tests are conducted with one batch per material. The EO / PO copolymers used are random copolymers, not block copolymers. The EO / PO copolymers are OH-terminated.

[0312] The following polymers are used:

[0313] EO / PO Copolymer 1: Ethanediol started, molecular weight 3400 g / mol, mass ratio EO to PO approx. 60 to 40, viscosity at 40°C approx. 460 mm 2 / s. The EO / PO copolymer 1 is purchased as Breox™ 60 D 460 from BASF.

[0314] EO / PO copolymer 2, butanol initiated, molecular weight 1600 g / mol, mass ratio EO to PO approx. 45 to 55, viscosity at 40°C approx. 100 mm 2 / s. The EO / PO copolymer 2 is purchased as POLYGLYKOL B 11 / 70™ from Clariant.

[0315] EO / PO copolymer 3, ethanediol initiated, molecular weight 2700 g / mol, mass ratio EO to PO approx. 60 to 40, viscosity at 40°C approx. 220 mm 2 / s. The EO / PO copolymer 3 is purchased as POLYGLYKOL D 21 / 150™ from Clariant.

[0316] EO / PO Copolymer 4: Ethanediol started, molecular weight 12000 g / mol, mass ratio EO to PO approx. 60 to 40, viscosity at 40°C approx. 18000 mm 2 / s. The EO / PO copolymer 4 is supplied as UCON™ LUBRICANT 75-H-90.000 from Dow Chemicals.

[0317] EO / PO Copolymer 5: Dipentaerythritol started, molecular weight 5000 g / mol, mass ratio EO to PO approx. 80 to 20, viscosity at 40°C approx. 460 mm 2 / s. The EO / PO copolymer 5 is purchased as POLYGYLKOL P 41 / 300™ from Clariant.

[0318] EO homopolymer 1: OH-terminated. Kinematic viscosity at 40°C approx. 22 mm 2 / s. Molar mass 190-200 g / mol. The EO homopolymer 4 is supplied as POLYGLYCOL 200™ from Clariant.

[0319] To prepare the mixtures, the respective components are weighed into a beaker and stirred at a maximum of 100°C for a maximum of 1 hour until a clear, homogeneous mixture is obtained.

[0320] Example A: Different mixtures are produced.

[0321] Figure 1 shows the Stribeck curves (friction coefficient / rolling speed) (40°C) of the inventive examples 1 to 4, example 5 and comparative examples 1 and 2. It is shown that the addition of C2-Ce-alkanediol to ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer leads to lubricant compositions with significantly lower friction coefficients.

[0322] Figure 2 shows the traction curves (traction coefficient / slip-roll ratio) (40°C) of inventive examples 1 to 4, example 5, and comparative examples 1 and 2. Significant reductions in the traction coefficients are evident through the addition of C2-Ce-alkanediol to ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer. Figure 3 shows the Stribeck curves (friction coefficient / rolling speed) (40°C) of inventive examples 6 to 8 and comparative example 3. It can be seen that the addition of C2-Ce-alkanediol to ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer leads to lubricant compositions with significantly lower friction coefficients.

[0323] Figure 4 shows the traction curves (traction coefficient / sliding-roll ratio) (40°C) of the inventive examples 6 to 8 and the comparative examples 1 to 3. Significant reductions in the traction coefficients are shown by admixing C2-C6 alkanediol to ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer.

[0324] Figure 5 shows the Stribeck curves (friction coefficient / rolling speed) (40°C) of Example 9 according to the invention and Comparative Example 4. It is shown that the addition of C2-Ce-alkanediol to ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer leads to lubricant compositions with significantly lower friction coefficients.

[0325] Figure 6 shows the traction curves (traction coefficient / sliding-roll ratio) (40°C) of Example 9 according to the invention and Comparative Example 4. Significant reductions in the traction coefficients are observed by admixing C2-Ce-alkanediol to ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer.

[0326] In the preparation of Comparative Examples 5 and 6, the respective components are weighed into a beaker and stirred for 1 hour at a maximum temperature of 100°C. Even at elevated temperatures, the mixture remains heterogeneous, and separation occurs. Comparative Examples 5 and 6 therefore demonstrate that the triol glycerol is unsuitable.

[0327] The specific resistance of EO / PO copolymer 1 is 400 Mohm*cm. The specific resistance of inventive examples 10 (* kinematic viscosity at 40°C = 263 [mm 2 / s]; specific electrical resistance 3 [Mohm*cm]) and 11 (specific electrical resistance 1.8 [Mohm*cm]) is significantly lower. This is particularly advantageous for applications where electrical potentials must be dissipated.

[0328] Examples 1 to 4 and 6 to 11 according to the invention show a film thickness (40°C) in the range of 800 to 1000 nm. In contrast, non-inventive example 5 shows a film thickness (40°C) of 500 nm. Such a low film thickness leads to increased wear in the mixed friction range.

[0329] Measurement methods Molecular weight Mn,

[0330] It is measured according to DIN 55672-1:2016-03, for all PG.

[0331] Percentage of water

[0332] The water content is measured according to Karl Fischer in accordance with DIN 51777:2016-08.

[0333] Viscosity index

[0334] The viscosity index (VI) can be calculated from the kinematic viscosity, as specified in DIN ISO 2909:2004-08.

[0335] solubility

[0336] The solubility of a substance in the base oil is determined when the substance under investigation forms a homogeneous phase with the base oil. To determine solubility, the mixture of base oil and substance is preferably first heated to 100°C while stirring, followed by cooling. The test for the formation of a homogeneous phase is performed after cooling to 20°C.

[0337] Stribeck curves and traction curves

[0338] Stribeck curves and traction curves were created with the EHD2 tribometer from PCS-Instruments.

[0339] Film thickness (40°C) The film thickness (40°C) is also determined using the EHD2, but with a sapphire disk instead of the 100Cr6 disk. Parameters: velocity 3.5 m / s, load 50 N, sphere as above.

[0340] Liquids

[0341] ASTM D4359-90(2019) describes a method for separating solids from liquids.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Lubricant composition comprising a) a base oil comprising a1) 6 wt.% to 45 wt.%, preferably 8 wt.% to 40 wt.%, more preferably 10 wt.% to 35 wt.%, in particular 13 wt.% to 35 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one C2-C6 alkanediol, a2) 44 to 93 wt.%, preferably 52 wt.% to 92 wt.%, more preferably 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, in particular 60 wt.% to 85 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, of at least one ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer.

2. Lubricant composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer is 55 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

3. Lubricant composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the proportion of the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer is 60 wt.% to 90 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition.

4. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, C1-4 monoalcohols and mixtures thereof.

5. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) is prepared starting from an initiator compound selected from water, butanol and mixtures thereof.

6. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lubricant composition contains 0.3 Wt.% to 15 wt.%, preferably 0.3 wt.% to 10 wt.%, in particular 0.5 wt.% to 8 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, at least one additive b), preferably selected from corrosion inhibitors, antioxidants, metal deactivators, viscosity index improvers, wear protection additives, radical scavengers, UV stabilizers, pour point improvers, friction value modifiers, additives for improving the high-pressure properties, adhesion improvers, defoamers and mixtures thereof.

7. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proportion of the base oil, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, is 50 wt.% to 99 wt.%, preferably 50 wt.% to 98 wt.%, more preferably 60 wt.% to 98 wt.%, in particular 70 wt.% to 98 wt.%.

8. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proportion of C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) taken together, based on the total weight of the base oil, is at least 80 wt.%, for example 80 wt.% to 100 wt.%, preferably 90 wt.% to 100 wt.%, more preferably 95 wt.% to 100 wt.%, even more preferably 97 wt.% to 100 wt.%, in particular about 100 wt.%.

9. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) and the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) are liquid at room temperature (20°C) and atmospheric pressure of 1013 hPa.

10. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is unsubstituted and the total number of carbon atoms in the unsubstituted C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is 2 to 6, preferably 2 to 5, or the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) has at least one, preferably exactly one, C1-C3 alkyl radical, more preferably at least one Ci-C2 alkyl radical, in particular at least one methyl and / or ethyl radical on the main carbon chain and the total number of carbon atoms is 3 to 9, preferably 3 to 8, in particular 3 to 6.

11. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is a C2-C6 alkanediol which has no substituent or only one substituent on the main carbon chain, wherein the only one substituent is selected from C1-C3 alkyl radicals, more preferably C1-C2 alkyl radicals, in particular methyl and ethyl radicals.

12. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) has the general formula I: HO-CH2-(CR 1 R 2 ) n -C(OH)R 3 R 4 wherein n is an integer from 0 to 4, preferably from 0 to 3, R 1 and R 2are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, preferably from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl, particularly preferably from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl, and in particular from hydrogen and methyl. R 3 and R 4 are independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, preferably from hydrogen and C1-C3 alkyl, and in particular from hydrogen and C1-C2 alkyl.

13. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that in formula I at most one of the substituents R 1 , R 2 , R 3 and R 4 different from hydrogen.

14. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is not ethylene glycol.

15. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the C2-C6 alkanediol a1) is selected from the group consisting of 1,2-propanediol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4- Butanediol, 3-methyl-1,3-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 3-methyl-1,5-pentanediol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol and mixtures thereof.

16. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the ethylene oxide / propylene oxide copolymer a2) has a molecular weight Mn measured according to DIN 55672-1:2016-03 with THF as solvent and polystyrene as calibration standard of 1500 g / mol to 25 000 g / mol.

17. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lubricant composition is in the form of a lubricating oil.

18. Lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lubricant composition contains no water or water only in a proportion of less than 10 wt.%, for example from 0 wt.% to 10 wt.%, preferably from 0.1 wt.% to 8 wt.%, in particular from 0.1 wt.% to 6 wt.%, based on the total weight of the lubricant composition, wherein the proportion of water is determined coulometrically according to Karl Fischer in accordance with DIN 51777:2016-08.

19. Use of a lubricant composition according to one or more of the preceding claims for lubricating tribological systems, preferably selected from gears, preferably closed gears, in particular industrial gears, gears in electric vehicles, gears which are components of power tools, large gears, for example a) gears for heavy industry, in particular gears in plants for the production of cement, gears in plants for steel production, gears in plants for the extraction of raw materials, preferably mineral raw materials, gears in plants for the processing of highly viscous raw materials, such as elastomers b) gears in conveyor systems, in particular for the transport of bulk material, c) ship propulsion systems, d) wind turbines and / or gears of working equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed and / or selected from bearings,in particular warehouses in industrial plants, warehouses in vehicles such as automobiles, warehouses that are components of power tools and / or warehouses of work equipment for the processing of food, luxury goods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and / or animal feed.

20. Use according to claim 19, characterized in that the tribological system is a closed gear.

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