Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology
Vol 2 No 3 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology

Low-Temperature Chemical Modification Challenges of Tallow, Butter, Palm Oil, and Palm-Based Biolubricants as Alternative Substitutes for Fossil Oils

Nuhu Buhari Lenfa (Unknown)
A. Anterinwa (Unknown)
B. A. Aliyu (Unknown)
A. Yakubu (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 Nov 2025

Abstract

Plant-derived oils such as Shea butter and palm kernel oil—abundant in African countries, particularly Nigeria—exhibit significant potential for use in lubrication, industrial processes, and transportation applications. Similarly, animal fats including butter and tallow may serve as viable alternatives for biolubricant production. This study investigates the low-temperature performance—specifically the cloud and pour points—of biolubricant oils synthesized from palm oil, Shea butter, butter, and tallow using various laboratory-based methods, including methanolic solvent extraction. The research addresses the environmental impact of conventional lubricants, which often contain harmful substances such as heavy metals and are frequently disposed of indiscriminately. Experimental results demonstrate that the pour point of palm oil modified with polymethacrylate (TPMA) improved to –9.5 °C, compared to –5 °C without additives. The Shea butter–polymethacrylate blend (SBPMA) exhibited a pour point of –3.5 °C, while modified palm oil (POPMA) improved from 7.2 °C to –5 °C. Butter oil derived from milk (BOPPG) showed a cloud point of –5 °C, whereas the Shea butter–polypropylene glycol blend (SBPPG) had a pour point of –6 °C. Notably, the tallow oil–polypropylene glycol blend (TOPPG) exhibited the lowest cloud point at –8 °C. These improvements are attributed to the inclusion of polymethacrylate and polypropylene glycols, which enhance the oils’ low-temperature properties. The findings highlight the significance of chemical modification in overcoming the limitations of biolubricants under cold conditions, positioning them as more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil-based lubricants.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

KIJST

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry Chemical Engineering, Chemistry & Bioengineering Environmental Science Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Kwaghe International Journal of Sciences and Technology aims to publish rigorous, peer-reviewed scholarship that advances natural sciences, agriculture, and technology through high-quality quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research. The journal prioritizes methodological transparency, ...