Cleveland, Ohio - February 27, 2023- As the price of lithium continues to rise, Lubrizol is committed to providing global grease producers with high-performance, cost-effective alternative industrial grease thickening solutions. As part of this commitment, Lubrizol has opened a new grease laboratory in Navi Mumbai, India, to support the testing and development of calcium sulfonate based grease with great potential in the industrial grease market.

Lithium soap has long been widely used as a thickener in lubricating grease applications, but in recent years, the electrification of automobiles has led to a sharp increase in demand for lithium. In the long run, due to the bias of lithium supply towards battery manufacturers, grease manufacturers will face supply restrictions. The formula based on calcium sulfonate composite lubricating grease can effectively replace lithium soap. OBCS (highly alkaline calcium sulfonate) has reliable thickening performance and good compatibility with base oils and additives, making it suitable for long-term use. Lubrizol's newly opened Indian laboratory will support the rigorous testing required for OBCS formulations to demonstrate their full potential.

"India is a market with unique needs," said Sanjeev Kaul, Chairman and Managing Director of Lubrizol Additives India Branch, However, the support provided by third-party testing laboratories in India that specialize in lubricating greases is limited. With this laboratory, we can provide grease development and testing services and support to local small and medium-sized grease manufacturers to promote the development of calcium sulfonate based greases and increase their sales.

The laboratory will provide lubricant manufacturers with:

Performance testing, enabling manufacturers to measure actual performance. Benchmarking enables manufacturers to compare product performance with industry standards. Training to help manufacturers' formula teams master knowledge of lubricant selection, testing, and application.

With the continuous growth of lithium demand, grease manufacturers will soon need a reliable thickening alternative. "Kaul said," We hope to help manufacturers in the entire region maintain a leading position and enhance their competitive advantage through possible alternative solutions. "Through technical training, product testing, and guidance on preparing finished grease solutions, Lubrizol provides end-to-end solutions for manufacturers. This includes Lubrizol ® GR9251, a precursor of calcium sulfonate, has high water resistance and can reduce the consumption of lubricating grease. It also has excellent cold flow characteristics and a manufacturing process that makes lubricating grease easier to produce.