Synthesis and Characterization of Polymyristyl Acrylate as a Potential Additive for Lubricating Oil

Homopolymer of myristyl acrylate was synthesized by two different ways; microwave (MW) assisted method and thermal method using benzoyl peroxide (BZP) as initiator. The polymers were characterized by spectroscopic (NMR, IR) and viscometric analysis. Additive performances of each of them [pour point depressant (PPD) and viscosity modifier (VM)] for lubricating oil (lube oil) were also evaluated by standard ASTM methods. Oil thickening property of the polymer has also been investigated and reported here. Thermal stability of the polymer was determined by thermo gravimetric analysis. A comparison of their performances has also been reported. The MW assisted method has appeared to be a cost effective greener approach.