Physicochemical and tribological properties of epoxidized Jatropha curcas L. oil

Abstract

The aim of this paper wasto chemically modify the vegetable oil of Jatropha curcas L. through the epoxidation reaction and to compare its physicochemical properties with those of refined Jatropha curcas L. oil and a hydraulic mineral oil of the same viscosity. The tribological properties of epoxidizedJatropha curcas L. oil and hydraulic mineral oil were also compared. During the development of the work, the standard norms ASTM, AOCS and COVENIN were used to determine the physicochemical and tribological properties. It was concluded that the epoxidized Jatropha curcas L. oil has an ISO VG 100 viscosity grade, practically three times higher compared to refined Jatropha curcas oil L.with 83,4% of the double bonds occupied by oxygen. Physicochemical properties such as viscosity index and flash point of epoxidizedJatropha curcas L. oil are more suitable for the function as lubricants in relation to hydraulic mineral oil. The pour point of epoxidizedJatropha curcas L. oil guarantees its use in tropical regions. The coefficient of friction for the epoxidizedJatropha curcas L. oil is lower than mineral hydraulic oil, although the wear scardiameter of the balls is greater; however, this problem could be solved by adding an additive package similar to that of that hydraulic mineral oil has, so it could become an excellent biolubricant.