Project Aim

For the production of biolubricants, additivated fatty acid esters based on vegetable oil are currently used almost exclusively. Despite their comparatively poor environmental impact, palm oil, palm kernel oil and coconut oil are important base oils. The environmental impact of biolubricants made from insect fat, for the production of which residual and waste materials are used, would be comparatively better. Furthermore, biolubricants made from insect fat could represent a higher-quality alternative to fossil lubricants with better lubricant properties such as low-temperature suitability and evaporation tendency if comprehensive and cost-effective refinement of the insect fat is successful. The use of biolubricants leads to additional benefits for the user, e.g. in the form of energy and cost savings through easier machine running, reduction of maintenance, repair and downtimes, increased safety in the event of accidents and a sustainability advantage over competitors.