From Fossil to Biobased: A Life Cycle Assessment of Commercial-Scale Polyol Ester Lubricant Base Oils

Key Points

• The aim is to evaluate the environmental impacts of biobased lubricant base oils compared to petroleum-based options.
• Conducted a life cycle assessment of commercial-scale lubricant production.
• Compared biobased polyol esters to traditional petroleum-based lubricants.
• Analyzed various environmental impact categories.
• Biobased alternatives significantly reduce fossil fuel dependency.
• Lower carbon emissions associated with biobased lubricants compared to petroleum-based ones.
• Environmental benefits vary depending on production processes.