Authors:
V. K. Anand, R. Saranya, Oday Mohammad Ahmad Khamaysa, Mohammad Ayaz Ahmad, Nagham Qasim Kadhim, Muhammad Fasehullah

Addresses:
Department of Biotechnology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Ramapuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Department of Biochemistry and Organic Laboratory, Modern University College, Ramallah, West Bank, Palestine. Department of Mathematics, Physics and Statistics, University of Guyana, Georgetown, Guyana, South America. Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, Tikrit University, Tikrit, Saladin Governorate, Iraq. College of Engineering and Technology, Southwest University, Beibei, Chongqing, China.

Abstract:

This review examines recent advancements in biolubricant technology, emphasising their potential as sustainable alternatives to conventional mineral-based lubricants. Derived from renewable sources such as vegetable oils, animal fats, and microalgae, biolubricants are increasingly valued for their biodegradability, renewability, and reduced ecological impact. However, limitations such as low thermal stability, oxidative susceptibility, and variable feedstock quality challenge widespread commercial adoption. Recent innovations have focused on enhancing biolubricant performance by incorporating nanoparticles (NP), including copper, titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and silicon dioxide (SiO₂). These additives significantly improve tribological properties, reducing friction by up to 30% and enhancing wear resistance by forming protective films on contact surfaces. This review details the physical properties of bio-lubricants, such as viscosity, flash point, and oxidative stability. For instance, vegetable oils exhibit a range of viscosities at 40°C, with olive oil esters achieving up to 93.08 cSt. In comparison, flash points can reach 283°C in macadamia oil biolubricants modified with NPs, enhancing their suitability for high-temperature applications. Additionally, molecular modifications such as esterification and hydrogenation further optimize properties, enhancing thermal stability and oxidative resistance. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of these physical enhancements and addresses the environmental and economic implications of nanoparticle-enhanced biolubricants. Insights into future research directions underscore biolubricants' potential to meet the dual objectives of environmental sustainability and industrial performance across diverse applications.

Keywords: Thermal Stability; Environmental Sustainability; Titanium Dioxide; Silicon Dioxide; Biolubricant Technology; Lubricant Life; Environmental Footprint; Greenhouse Gases; Carbon Dioxide.

Received on: 08/10/2024, Revised on: 03/01/2025, Accepted on: 06/05/2025, Published on: 15/09/2026

DOI: 10.69888/FTSASS.2026.000769

FMDB Transactions on Sustainable Applied Sciences, 2026 Vol. 3 No. 2, Pages: 74-88

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