Formulation of Biogreases derived from Mahua and Karanja Oil

Abstract

The present study reports the parametric investigation conducted on the formulation of biofuels, biolubricant/ biogrease from Mahua (Madhuca Indica) oil and Karanja (Pongamia Pinnata) oil. Biogrease complex has been formulated in 90:10, 80:20 and 70:30 oil/soap ratios for thickness from the oils, their methyl esters and the tri-esters. The experimental results show that the biogrease prepared from Karanja TMP triester showed a drop point of 176 ℃ which was higher as compared to biogrease prepared from Mahua TMP triester which showed a drop point of 172 ℃. The water wash out resistance for both the biogreases was found to be 7%, which is comparable with conventional greases. Based on the cone penetration index, both the biogrease samples were found to fall in NLGI Grade 2 of greases, which is the most common grade of conventionally used greases. Such Biogreases can be effectively used in applications where these greases are directly released into the open atmosphere after their use like agriculture or marine machines and vehicles.