Amine-Functionalized Polymer Additive for EGR Engine Oil Viscosity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internal combustion engines with Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems face challenges with soot-mediated oil thickening and sludge formation, leading to increased viscosity and reduced lubricant performance, which existing dispersant viscosity modifiers have not adequately addressed.
Innovation Solution
A lubricating composition comprising an oil of lubricating viscosity and an amine-functionalised additive derived from an amine with at least 3 aromatic groups, at least one -NH2 functional group, and at least 2 secondary or tertiary amino groups, which provides dispersant and viscosity modifying properties to control viscosity and prevent soot-mediated oil thickening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If EGR systems are used to reduce emissions, then emissions of pollutants are reduced, but soot-mediated oil thickening and sludge formation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of soot particles into a beneficial dispersing action. The amine-functionalized polymer additive adsorbs onto soot particles, utilizing their presence to enhance dispersion throughout the lubricant, thereby preventing aggregation and viscosity increase while maintaining the EGR system's emission reduction benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The amine-functionalized polymer acts as an intermediary substance between soot particles and the base oil. It mediates the interaction by providing steric and electrostatic repulsion between soot aggregates, preventing them from causing oil thickening while allowing the EGR system to continue operating for emission control
2Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional dispersant viscosity modifiers are used, then some soot control is achieved, but adequate prevention of soot-mediated oil thickening is not attained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite additive structure combining a polymeric backbone with amine functional groups. This composite design provides both dispersant properties for soot control and viscosity modifier characteristics, achieving simultaneous protection against soot-mediated thickening and sludge formation that traditional single-function additives cannot provide
Solution Approach 2:
The amine-functionalized polymer performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a dispersant for soot particles, a viscosity modifier to maintain oil flow characteristics, and a sludge preventer. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by providing comprehensive protection against all soot-related degradation mechanisms with a single additive package
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a lubricating composition comprising an oil of lubricating viscosity and an amine-functionalised additive, wherein the amine-functionalised additive is derived from an amine having at least 3 aromatic groups, at least one -NH2 functional group, and at least 2 secondary or tertiary amino groups. The invention further provides for the additive to have dispersant and/or dispersant viscosity modifying properties. The lubricating composition is suitable for lubricating an internal combustion engine.