Polyalphaolefin (PAO) is the most widely - used synthetic base oil in industrial and automotive lubricants. It is a synthetic hydrocarbon produced through the oligomerization of linear alpha - olefins under the action of catalysts, followed by a hydrogenation process.

PAO is structurally distinct from mineral oils refined by physical distillation. It contains no double bonds, sulfur, nitrogen compounds, or waxy hydrocarbons. These structural characteristics endow it with outstanding properties, such as a high viscosity index, excellent low - temperature fluidity and a low pour point, as well as strong thermal and oxidative stability. Additionally, it has good compatibility with seals in mineral oil systems, coatings, and lubricating oil systems.

Nevertheless, PAO also has certain drawbacks. It has limited solubility for common oil additives and may cause seal shrinkage. To address these issues, it is often blended with organic ester synthetic base oils. Moreover, it has poor fire resistance and biodegradability.

Core Applications

Automotive Field: It is a key base oil for fully synthetic automotive engine oils, accounting for 70% - 90% of its total application. It can be formulated into oils like 0W/20 and 5W/30, which enhance fuel economy by 7% - 10% and extend the oil change interval from 5,000 kilometers to 50,000 kilometers. Besides, it is used to produce vehicle gear oils such as 75W - 90, improving the wear resistance and oxidation resistance of the oils.

Industrial Field: It is applied to produce industrial gear oils for reducers in wind power equipment and other heavy - duty devices. It is also an ideal base oil for hydraulic oils, air compressor oils and heat transfer oils. The excellent thermal stability of PAO ensures stable operation of industrial equipment under long - term high - temperature conditions and reduces the formation of oil sludge and deposits.

Aerospace and Military Fields: It is used to formulate high - temperature aviation lubricants and jet engine oils. These lubricants can maintain stable lubricating performance in extreme temperature environments ranging from - 60℃ to 200℃, which is crucial for safeguarding the reliable operation of aerospace engines and military equipment under harsh working conditions.

Other Fields: Due to its non - toxicity and good skin permeability, it is added to cosmetics and skincare products. It can also be made into lubricating oils for food and textile machinery. Meanwhile, it serves as a base fluid for wide - temperature - range lubricating greases, meeting the lubrication needs of various mechanical components in complex temperature environments.