TRENDS IN THE PROCESS OF GREENING LUBRICANTS
In this article, the authors have characterized the main activities that reduce the impact of lubricants on the environment. To begin with, new solutions in the area of engine oils that reduce the emission of harmful substances in exhaust gases (“Low SAPS” oils) were discussed. Next, the activities concerning the improvement of biodegradability of lubricating oils used in devices in Nature Reserves, as well as in all of the “open lubrication systems” were characterized. Another problem was related to the non-toxicity (and other derivative features) of lubricants that may have incidental contact with a sensitive technological medium in production processes (in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetics industries). The last issue that was discussed concerns the compatibility of compressor oils with refrigerants in connection with the global exchange program of Freon for more environmentally friendly substances (currently, mainly affecting global warming to a lesser extent).