Introduction to Polybutene
Polybutenes (also called Polybutylenes or Polyisobutylenes) are hydrocarbon synthetic fluids produced by the co-polymerisation of butenes and isobutenes. Polybutenes differ from most other oils by decomposing at temperatures of 250°C to 275°C through a depolymerisation or unzipping mechanism. Polybutene summary:
- Temperature range of 0 to 120°C
- Very high viscosity oils available
- Relatively low cost
- Very good level of tack/stickiness or anti-throw properties
- Poor lower temp capabilities
Typically we blend polybutenes with Polyalphaolefin (PAO). Keep in mind that when Polybutene is used as the base oil for a grease, the thickener and additives also used in the formula will have an influence on the final characteristics and performance of the finished grease/lubricant.
An example of a use for a polybutene based grease? Take a look at our Photo Scanner Feed Table Damping Grease case study.
Take a look at our typical thickener systems characteristics used to make a base oil into a grease.
