Engine oil is a precision blend of base oils and additives that work together to protect critical engine parts. One key category of additives are dispersants, which help control harmful contaminants. Dispersants prevent soot, sludge, and other byproducts of combustion from coagulating in the oil.
Most dispersants work by attaching to particulates and keeping them finely suspended in the oil, preventing clumping. They disperse contaminants throughout the oil so they can be filtered out or removed when the oil is changed. Dispersants also help to neutralize acids and prevent deposits on surfaces like piston skirts.
Modern dispersants are long hydrocarbon chains with polar heads that adsorb onto particulates. Polymeric succinimide molecules are one type of popular ashless dispersant additive, as they effectively maintain cleanliness without contributing to metallic ash content. Detergent-inhibitors are another dispersant additive that cleans, suspends contaminants, and acts as corrosion inhibitors.
Dispersants are crucial for keeping modern high-performance engines clean, especially diesel engines which produce significant soot. Properly dispersed contaminants dramatically reduce wear and oil thickening. Dispersant technology continues advancing to meet newer engine demands.
At Valorem Chemicals, we offer a wide range of dispersant chemistries.
Menu