4776 (RP-1211) - Mechanism for Reaction Between Polyolester Lubricant and Ferrous Metals, Part I: Literature Search PDF

This paper summarizes the results of a literature search performed to gain an understanding of the reaction mechanism( s) responsible for the catalytic effects of ferrous metals on the thermal degradation of polyolesters. The referenced papers indicate that the reaction is highly temperature dependent and may be initiated by the presence of dissolved iron species. Reaction mechanism candidates based on iron catalyzed thermal degradation and hydrolysis/dehydration of polyolesters are proposed to explain the reported experimental results of the cited researchers. The effects of temperature on the degradation reactions appear to be dependent on the decomposition temperatures of the produced iron carboxylate and polyolester reaction products. The proposed reaction mechanisms will be tested and finalized in the second part of the planned research program.

Units: Dual