What chemicals are in generic 2 cycle motor oil?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the chemical composition of generic 2-cycle motor oils, highlighting that approximately 90% of the formulation consists of base oil, primarily mineral oil derived from hydrocarbon fractions of crude. The remaining 10% comprises various additives, including anti-oxidants, viscosity improvers, anti-wear compounds, corrosion inhibitors, anti-foaming agents, detergents, ZDDP, and emulsifiers. The specific composition can vary based on the intended application, such as for small engines or larger marine units. Accurate information regarding the exact chemical makeup is typically only available from the API or the refinery.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 2-cycle engine mechanics
  • Familiarity with chemical additives in lubricants
  • Knowledge of base oil types (mineral, synthetic, vegetable)
  • Awareness of the role of additives in motor oil performance
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specific chemical properties of ZDDP in motor oils
  • Explore the differences between mineral oil and synthetic oil formulations
  • Learn about the impact of various additives on engine performance
  • Investigate the regulations and standards for motor oil composition
USEFUL FOR

Engine mechanics, automotive engineers, lubricant formulators, and anyone involved in the maintenance or production of 2-cycle engines will benefit from this discussion.

manhattan1nyc
Does anyone have a list of the specific chemicals that are in off the shelf generic 2 cycle oils? Much appriciation if someone can give me an accurate list. Willing to compensate for an accurate list of chemicals and their chemical formulas.
 
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Firstly, the only place you'll get accurate information is the API or the refinery themselves. Both unlikely to give out complete compositions.

Typically, 90% of the make-up is base oil. This is generally mineral oil; hydrocarbon fractions of crude, for bog-standard off-the-shelf variants. Some oils will use vegetable oils or synthetic compounds (esters, polyolefins, fluorocarbons) for the base oil.

The remaining 10% is made up of additives. This is mostly where oil differs in composition depending on the designated application. Additives will include anti-oxidants, viscosity improvers, anti-wear compounds, corrosion inhibitors, anti-foaming agents, detergents, ZDDP, and emulsifiers. Ash will be added for sooty burning engines. Diesel and 2-stroke oils have a high ash content to 'mop up' the soot.


Now, when you ask about 2 stroke oils, do you mean the sort used in little whizz-bang engines (garden strimmers, lawnmowers etc) or large power generation/marine units?
 
Thanks

Thanks brewnog you've actually been very helpful and pointed me in the right direction.
 

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