Polysiloxanes and Their Blends as Antifoam Agents in Lubricant Production

Document Type : compile

Authors

1 PhD candidate/ University of Isfahan

2 Product Engineering and Development Unit, Sepahan Oil Company, Isfahan, 8143864755, Iran

10.22063/basparesh.2025.35723.1744

Abstract

Foam formation in lubricants is a major challenge affecting the performance of industrial lubrication systems. It results from the accumulation and stabilization of air bubbles within the lubricant. This phenomenon not only reduces lubrication efficiency and increases equipment wear and operating temperature, but can also lead to serious problems such as diminished corrosion protection, accelerated oil oxidation, air lock, and even safety hazards such as leakage and fire. Foam formation and stability are influenced by various factors, including the chemical and physical properties of the lubricant, operating conditions, type and concentration of additives, and environmental contaminants. This review discusses the mechanisms of foam formation, the factors affecting foam stability, and the role of polymers as antifoaming agents. Polymeric antifoams suppress foam by reducing surface tension, destabilizing foam films, and facilitating air release from the lubricant. Studies show that the selection of an appropriate antifoam depends on the base oil, additive package, and operating conditions. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), due to its low surface tension and high thermal stability is the most widely used silicone-based antifoam. In contrast, polyacrylate-based antifoams (such as T911 and T912) offer better compatibility with certain mineral oils and represent suitable alternatives. Furthermore, hybrid systems combining silicone and polyacrylate antifoams, or modifying formulations with nanoparticles such as silica or graphene improves the antifoaming performance. Ultimately, the selection of polymeric antifoams should be based on experimental evaluation and tailored to the specific characteristics of the lubrication system. This article can help to understand the mechanism of foam formation and current strategies for foam control in lubricants.

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