F+L Webcast

As the global fuels and lubricants industry accelerates its transition toward sustainability, ASTM International's Committee D02 is at the centre of ensuring quality and performance standards keep pace. At the helm of this influential committee is Dr. James J. Simnick, chair of ASTM D02 and a veteran of the refining and fuels sector, who recently joined the F+L Webcast to discuss his four-decade journey and the future of fuels and lubricants standardisation.

The European Engine Lubricants Quality Management System (EELQMS) plays a crucial role in maintaining high-quality engine oils for European vehicles across global markets, including Asia and the Middle East. In a recent F+L Asia podcast, industry experts Mike Boyer, director of SAIL-Europe, and David Wright, chair of ATIEL's Quality Management System Committee, discussed the importance of quality standards, compliance monitoring, and the evolving role of EELQMS in the lubricants industry.

With more than 30 years of industry experience, Matthew (Matt) Joyce, Corporate Senior Vice President and President of HF Sinclair's Lubricants & Specialities, has focused on driving innovation, operational excellence, and environmental stewardship across HF Sinclair's operations. HF Sinclair, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, U.S.A., produces a wide range of high-value products, including renewable diesel, jet fuel, and speciality lubricants. Its Lubricants & Specialities segment is among North America's largest producers of white oils and Group III base oils, exporting to more than 80 countries and serving industries such as pharmaceuticals, personal care, construction, and mining. Notable brands under this segment include Sonneborn, Petro-Canada Lubricants, and Red Giant Oil. Sustainability is at the core of HF Sinclair's strategy. Products like SonneNatural, a 100% plant-based lubricant, exemplify the company's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and supporting renewable feedstocks. These solutions meet growing global demand for environmentally friendly products while ensuring high performance and reliability. The division also invests heavily in innovation, with advancements such as immersion cooling fluids for data centres and renewable lubricants. These efforts align with HF Sinclair's vision to be a trusted global partner for sustainable solutions, helping businesses navigate regulatory pressures and achieve their environmental goals. Looking ahead, HF Sinclair aims to expand its market presence in Asia and Africa while maintaining its leadership in innovation and sustainability. Joyce emphasises the company's mission: “Our focus is on delivering innovative, sustainable solutions that create value for our customers while making a positive environmental impact.”

In the male-dominated world of lubricants, Daiane Spadari has emerged as a trailblazer. Currently, the research and development executive manager at Iconic Lubrificantes, a joint venture between Chevron and Ipiranga, Spadari oversees the innovation pipeline for Texaco and Ipiranga lubricants in Brazil. With more than 17 years of industry experience, she is driving advancements that position Iconic as a leader in Brazil's USD1.3 billion lubricant market. Spadari's journey began humbly at Brazil's first biodiesel company, where she gained her first exposure to innovation and leadership. “It was my first chance to lead, and it taught me the importance of being a good leader,” she shared in a recent podcast. Her early career inspired her to pursue advanced education, including a Master's in Chemistry and an MBA in Personnel Management, paving the way for her leadership in R&D. Returning to the industry in 2010, Spadari joined Ipiranga and later transitioned to Iconic Lubrificantes, where she played a pivotal role in its formation in 2018. Today, Iconic is the largest lubricant supplier in Brazil, holding over a quarter of the market share.  Ipiranga is Brazil's second-largest fuel retailer. Under Spadari's leadership, Iconic has achieved several milestones, including the establishment of Latin America's largest private R&D lab. The facility boasts more than 300 state-of-the-art lab equipment and more than 50 professionals dedicated to developing cutting-edge solutions. Spadari believes in tailoring products for regional needs. “Brazil's unique conditions, such as high biodiesel and ethanol content, require robust formulations to handle oxidation and corrosion challenges,” she explained. Her team's solutions not only meet international standards but are also optimised for local markets, ensuring better performance and sustainability. While Spadari acknowledges the historical challenges women face in technical fields, she notes progress within Iconic. “Three of our four managers are women. In my team, the sole man is the ‘diversity' member,” she jokes, highlighting a significant shift in gender dynamics. She encourages more women to pursue careers in R&D and views diversity as a driver of innovation. Sustainability is a cornerstone of Iconic's strategy under Spadari's guidance. From exploring bio-lubricants made from renewable sources to evaluating circularity in used oils, her team is pushing boundaries. “We're committed to not just creating better products but also reducing emissions and extending machinery life,” she said. As the Brazilian lubricant market grows, Iconic and Spadari are positioned to shape its future. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and diversity, Spadari exemplifies leadership that inspires. “Innovation and sustainability are at the core of everything we do,” she said. Spadari's journey from a budding chemist to a leader at the forefront of Brazil's lubricant industry underscores the impact of resilience, education, and vision. As she continues to challenge norms and drive change, the industry will undoubtedly benefit from her fearless approach to innovation.

In a recent interview on F+L Webcast, Michael Holloway, president of Fifth Order Industry, highlighted the importance of global collaboration in developing and applying industry standards on fuels and lubricants. Holloway is recognised as a subject-matter expert in failure analysis, reliability engineering, and designed experiments, holding 16 professional certifications and a patent. He has a Master's degree in Polymer Engineering and a Bachelor's degree in both Chemistry and Philosophy. Over his 40-year career, he has held roles in research and product development with companies such as Olin Chemical, WR Grace, Rohm & Haas, and GE Plastics. Additionally, he has specialised in reliability engineering and failure analysis for companies like NCH, ALS, and SGS. Fifth Order Industry, based in Houston, Texas, U.S.A., provides training and consultancy. Holloway discussed how international standards, such as those established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), create a shared foundation for industries worldwide. “Standards allow industries to speak a common language,” he explained. “They are essential not only for compliance but for creating opportunities for innovation and collaborative problem-solving.” Holloway believes that this unified approach enhances safety, quality, and environmental practices, benefiting industries and consumers alike. Holloway further underscored the need for flexibility in implementing these standards. He noted that while standards offer a foundational framework, they must be adapted to meet regional and operational specifics, ensuring that they are effectively applied rather than serving as mere compliance checklists. This adaptable approach, he argued, is crucial to fostering genuine operational improvements and advancing innovation. With industries becoming increasingly interconnected, Holloway sees global standards as the key to meeting today's challenges and paving the way for future sustainable practices. As companies adopt and refine these collaborative standards, Holloway envisions a future where international partnerships drive the next wave of industrial growth and innovation.

In Episode 41 of F+L Webcast, Ping Zhu, vice president of Technology at Lubrizol Additives, shared insights into the company's forward-thinking approach to sustainability and innovation in the lubricant industry. Zhu, who has dedicated 30 years to the company, highlighted the critical role of chemistry in creating solutions that balance performance and sustainability. Zhu emphasised the importance of collaboration within the industry, pointing out that advancements in technology, particularly in hybridisation, electrification, and hydrogen fuels, have transformed the landscape. Lubrizol is at the forefront of this change, working closely with suppliers and OEMs to ensure their chemistry supports the latest hardware innovations while reducing carbon footprints. A key takeaway from the interview is Lubrizol's commitment to sustainability as an integrated part of its strategy, not just a separate initiative. The company is focused on lifecycle analysis, aiming to minimise carbon emissions from cradle to gate. Lubrizol's efforts extend beyond lubricants to include innovations in other divisions, such as cooling and refrigeration solutions and bio-based polymers. As the industry continues to evolve, Zhu believes that Asia-Pacific is at the cutting edge of these changes. The region's diverse market needs, combined with rapid innovation, make it a challenging yet exciting landscape for Lubrizol to navigate. Zhu's message is clear: the lubricant industry must embrace a circular economy and work together across the value chain to achieve sustainability goals.

In Episode 40 of F+L Webcast, Uday Kumar, the industrial managing director of PETRONAS Lubricants International, shared his extensive journey and insights into the evolving world of industrial lubricants. The conversation with F&L Asia Editor-in-Chief Vicky Villena-Denton unfolded like a narrative of passion, expertise, and vision, shedding light on the intricate role of lubrication in industrial machinery and its future trajectory. Kumar's story began in Bangalore, India, where he pursued a Bachelor of Engineering degree in Mechanical Engineering His interest in tribology, the study of friction, wear, and lubrication, was ignited by a meeting with Professor S.K. Biswas, a renowned expert in the field. "Talking to Professor Biswas, I was amazed by how lubrication plays an important role between friction and wear," Uday reminisced. This fascination led him to join Castrol India as a sales engineer, where his deep understanding of tribology set him apart. Kumar's career trajectory saw him taking on various roles across India, South Asia, and China, ultimately managing BP's industrial lubricant business in Shanghai. His expertise was further recognised when he became the Global Key Account Director, managing relationships with key clients like Tata Group. In 2020, he joined PETRONAS Lubricants International, bringing more than three decades of experience to the table. Tribology, often a lesser-known field, became Kumar's specialty. He explained how tribology's principles are crucial in maintaining industrial machinery. "Most industrial machinery is always under maintenance and breakdown, often due to inadequate lubrication," he noted. Engineers, with their technical background, are best suited to diagnose these issues and recommend solutions that improve machinery performance and longevity. The conversation then shifted to the differences between industrial and automotive lubricants. Kumar highlighted how industrial lubricants are closely tied to OEM specifications to ensure machinery runs smoothly, especially during the warranty period. This precision contrasts with the broader industry standards often seen in the automotive sector. One of the significant advancements in the industry is the adoption of Industry 4.0. Kumar discussed how modern factories, especially in China and India, are embracing smart manufacturing. "Modern machinery operates at higher speeds and with greater precision, demanding continuous lubrication monitoring," he said. This technological shift is transforming how maintenance is conducted, with real-time monitoring and predictive analysis becoming standard practices. Discussing current trends, Kumar emphasised the growing focus on sustainability. Companies are increasingly looking for lubricants that are renewable, biodegradable, and have a lower carbon footprint. "Energy transition is a big topic now, with a shift towards wind and solar energy," he remarked, highlighting how lubricants also play a crucial role in these renewable energy sectors. Automation, Kumar explained, is reducing the quantity of lubricants required, though the demand for high-quality, specialised lubricants is rising. This trend is seen in robotic manufacturing, which uses advanced synthetic greases, compared to older, more lubricant-intensive machinery. Looking ahead, Uday sees a future where the focus will be on integrating services with products. "The future is about helping our customers reduce downtime and maintenance costs by incorporating the service element with the product," he predicted. This shift from product-centric to service-centric solutions will be pivotal in meeting the evolving needs of the industry. Uday's insights painted a vivid picture of an industry in transition, driven by technological advancements and a commitment to sustainability. His journey from an engineering student fascinated by tribology to a leader in the lubricant industry serves as an inspiration for those looking to make a meaningful impact in this field. In closing, Kumar reflected on the enduring importance of lubricants. "From a pin to an aircraft, lubrication plays an essential role. This industry offers a vast scope, and it's here to stay for a long time," he concluded, leaving the audience with a sense of optimism about the future of industrial lubricants. The importance of tribologyEmbracing Industry 4.0The future of industrial lubricants

In an exclusive interview with F+L Webcast, Adnaan Emeran, marketing and business development manager for Commercial Fuels and Lubricants at Engen Petroleum, shared insights into the company's strategy to strengthen its brand positioning in South Africa. Engen Petroleum is a major South African oil company that focuses on the downstream refined petroleum products market and related businesses. Emeran, who has over three decades of experience in the industry, highlighted the importance of understanding the unique pain points faced by key customers in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and manufacturing. "By conducting research into the challenges our customers face, we are better equipped to tailor our offerings and improve our brand positioning," he explained. One of the significant challenges discussed was the requirement for local partnerships in various sectors due to South African legislation. While these sectors share common pain points, Emeran noted that each industry also faces unique obstacles. For example, in mining, incorporating local communities into the supply chain is a significant hurdle, while in agriculture, unpredictable weather patterns and inadequate transportation infrastructure pose significant challenges. Emeran, who holds a background in chemistry, emphasised his role in marketing and business development, ensuring that products reach their destinations safely and efficiently. He also highlighted the need for accessible and secure facilities for truck drivers, a crucial aspect of the company's operations. Engen Petroleum, a subsidiary of PETRONAS, has a strong presence in the South African retail market, with a market share of around 27%. The company aims to enable sectors like transport and agriculture to overcome common pain points and keep businesses moving. Its new B2B tagline is 'Always Moving'. Engen Petroleum has six affiliates across Africa, including South Africa, Botswana, Mauritius, and Swaziland, and exports lubricants to various markets, working with distributors to reach a wider audience. Engen is currently majority owned by Malaysian state-owned oil and gas company PETRONAS (74%), with the remaining equity held by the Phembani Group (20%) and a Phembani-led consortium (6%). On April 25, 2024, South Africa's Competition Tribunal gave the greenlight for Vitol to acquire PETRONAS' stake. The deal was originally announced in February 2023. The acquisition will result in a change of control from PETRONAS to Vivo Energy, a joint venture between Vitol, Helios Investment Partners, and Shell, created in 2011. As Engen Petroleum continues to navigate the evolving fuel and lubricants industry in South Africa, its focus on understanding customer pain points, localising partnerships, and leveraging its strong brand positioning will be crucial in driving growth and maintaining its position as a leading player in the market.

Vincent Minard is a seasoned veteran with two decades of experience within TotalEnergies' Marketing & Services. His journey with TotalEnergies has taken him across continents, from the bustling cities of Europe to the dynamic markets of Asia, shaping his expertise in lubricants, OEM partnerships, and retail management. He is currently vice president of Lubricants, Specialties & BtoB, responsible for Asia Pacific and the Middle East based in Singapore. One of the crown jewels in TotalEnergies' portfolio is their state-of-the-art lubricant blending plant in Singapore. As the largest of its kind within the company, this facility serves as a central hub for the Asia Pacific and Middle Eastern markets. The strategic choice of Singapore as its location was influenced by the city-state's existing infrastructure and its pivotal position for accessing surrounding markets. The COVID-19 pandemic tested the resilience of industries worldwide, and the lubricants sector was no exception. Minard recounts the challenges faced during this period, from supply chain disruptions to demand fluctuations. However, TotalEnergies' centralized production in Singapore proved to be a competitive advantage, allowing them to maintain a steady supply to their customers despite global uncertainties. In the global arena, TotalEnergies holds the fourth position among lubricant players, with leadership in regions such as Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The company's brand strategy has been a key factor in this success. By leveraging its Total and Elf brands, TotalEnergies continues to cater to a wide range of market needs, from high-end automotive products to specialized industrial applications. The Asian market, with its contrasting mature and rapidly developing economies, presents unique challenges and opportunities. Minard observes a trend towards premiumization, as consumers gradually recognize the value of higher-quality lubricants. Minard emphasizes the importance of innovation, customer education, and sustainability in driving TotalEnergies' success in the lubricants market. Despite the challenges posed by market dynamics and the shift towards electric vehicles, the company remains committed to delivering high-quality products and services while contributing to a greener future.

Flavio Kliger, who was appointed president of Lubrizol Additives in January 2023, reflects on his first year at the helm of one of the leading global additive suppliers to the fuels and lubricants industry. Born and raised in Brazil, Kliger's fascination with economics and an unexpected love for the lubricants industry led him to a pivotal role at Lubrizol, a company he admires for its industry leadership and innovation. In a recent conversation on F+L Webcast, Kliger shared insights into his personal journey, Lubrizol's strategic direction, and the future of the additives industry. His leadership is characterized by a strategic approach that is not just reactive but anticipatory, readying Lubrizol Additives for the next wave of industry evolution. As the automotive world stands on the brink of a technological revolution, his insights provide a valuable perspective on what lies ahead. A Journey from Economics to Lubricants Kliger's career trajectory is a testament to his belief in the power of serendipity and passion. Initially drawn to economics due to Brazil's hyperinflation, his career took a significant turn when he was "chosen" by the lubricants sector. His journey with Lubrizol started in 2017, and he credits the company for its role in fostering his growth, culminating in his role as president of Lubrizol Additives in January 2023. Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities Reflecting on his first year as president, Kliger highlighted the unforeseen challenges, such as market de-stocking, that tested the company's resilience. Yet, it's Lubrizol's response—focusing on what can be controlled and ensuring customer needs are met—that underscores the company's adaptability and forward-thinking approach. He observed that, following the Covid-19 pandemic and the Texas freeze, the industry at large has significantly enhanced the resilience of its global supply chain. The Global Landscape and Local Solutions With a global footprint that includes significant operations in China and collaborative relationships with OEMs worldwide, Lubrizol is poised to meet regional demands with localized solutions. Kliger emphasized the importance of understanding and adapting to diverse market needs, a strategy that has become even more relevant amid shifting trade relations and the push for sustainability. Sustainability: Transforming the Industry Sustainability is not just a goal but a transformative force at Lubrizol, he said. Kliger passionately discussed how the additives industry is uniquely positioned to address the evolving demands of fuel efficiency, electrification, and reduced emissions. For Lubrizol, this era represents an opportunity to leverage its technological prowess and deep understanding of complex customer needs to drive innovation and sustainability forward. Looking Ahead: Innovation, Agility, and Customer Focus As for the future, Kliger envisions a Lubrizol that remains at the forefront of addressing the industry's most pressing challenges through innovation, agility, and a relentless focus on customer needs. The company's commitment to advancing mobility, improving well-being, and enhancing modern life remains steadfast, driven by a global team that values diversity, expertise, and a shared vision for a sustainable future.

Joseph Star, business development manager for Product Solutions at ExxonMobil, based in London, UK, discusses the emerging field of liquid cooling, particularly in data centres, and the role of fluids in this space. He explains that the need for processing power and the rise of AI are driving the growth of data centers. Immersion fluids, including full immersion and other liquid cooling technologies, are gaining traction due to the increasing processing power and the need to dissipate more heat within the same space. Star's insights shed light on the evolving landscape of data centre cooling solutions and the role of immersion fluids in addressing the industry's growing demands for efficient and effective cooling technologies. His discussion provided valuable perspectives on the future of immersion fluids and their potential impact on the data centre industry's sustainability and operational efficiency. Star sees the development of immersion fluids in the future as a rapidly growing and evolving space with several key characteristics and challenges. Here are the key insights from the interview: Fluid Characteristics: Star emphasises the importance of dielectric properties in immersion fluids, as the fluid circulates around and goes through all components. He mentions that the majority of hydrocarbon-based fluids inherently possess this property. He also discusses the use of synthetic fluids, such as poly alpha olefins, which provide stability and a relatively high flashpoint, which is crucial for safety. Fluid Selection: Star highlights the significance of fluid viscosity, particularly in single-phase immersion cooling, where lower viscosity fluids are preferred as they require less energy to circulate through the system. He mentions that ExxonMobil has launched a broad portfolio of fluids to cater to different operational needs. Fluid Formulation and Lifespan: When discussing the composition of the finished product, Star mentions that the formulation is proprietary and involves considering material compatibility and the lifespan of the fluid. He expects the fluid to last around 10 years without the need for top-ups due to its single-phase nature. Technical Challenges: Star addresses technical challenges, including material compatibility, maintenance of equipment, and the need to develop and adjust immersion fluids based on the evolving needs of the industry. When asked about the future of immersion fluids, Star acknowledges the rapidly evolving nature of the space and the need to adapt to the changing needs of the industry. He mentions that the current portfolio of immersion fluids is just the beginning and that they will continue to develop and adjust their offerings based on industry requirements.

In a revealing interview, Jason Wells, now at the helm of Novvi LLC, sheds light on the company's on-going restructuring and its new strategic direction. Wells' transparent discussion about Novvi's strategic direction and challenges paints a vivid picture of resilience and innovation in the base oil industry. 2023 marked a transformative year for Novvi. Beginning in August, the company underwent a major restructuring, leading to the departure of former President Jeff Brown. Wells, previously the Chief Technology Officer, stepped up as President, steering Novvi through this crucial phase. This restructuring process culminated in a Chapter 11 filing in Bankruptcy Court in the U.S. District & Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas, on December 1, 2023. Novvi's headquarters is in Alameda, California, U.S.A., but its plant is located in La Porte, Texas. This strategic move is part of a broader plan to streamline operations, optimise shareholder structure, and introduce new capital. Wells also touched on the sensitive topic of Novvi's Chapter 11 filing, explaining it as the final stage in a restructuring process that started in August 2023. This filing, while drastic, was part of a broader strategy to streamline shareholder structure and bring in new capital. The goal is a swift exit from Chapter 11, expected by the end of January 2024. Addressing the leadership change, Wells pointed out that the shift in strategy from focusing on scale and capital projects to prioritising profitability and commercial success in the current footprint necessitated new leadership. The future strategy involves a more customer and market-driven approach, emphasising sustainability not just in feedstock but also in application performance.

Shell is not just an energy giant; it's a pioneer steering the helm of the sustainability journey. Mansi Madan Tripathy, Shell Lubricants' VP for Asia-Pacific, underscores this ethos. In a candid conversation with F+L Webcast, Tripathy unveils the intricate dance of intent, effort, and investment that defines Shell's green trajectory. Tripathy's narrative is rich, woven from her diverse experiences, including a stint at Procter & Gamble and her current role at Shell. She's not just a business leader; she's a witness to Shell Lubricant's 35% carbon intensity reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions in Asia-Pacific vs baseline year of 2016. But how does a behemoth like Shell navigate the complex waters of sustainability? It's a mix of strong intent, concerted effort, and strategic investments. The company is not just looking inward but is also focusing on the pivotal role of lubricants in amplifying efficiency. Tripathy is candid about the challenges. The journey is peppered with tough investment choices and the need for experimentation. There's a balance to strike, especially when the last sustainability mile demands higher investment for lesser immediate return. Yet, Shell is undeterred. The company recently amplified the capacity of its Marunda Lubricants Oil Blending Plant in Indonesia, integrating sustainability features like solar power and a rainwater harvesting system. It's a testament to Shell's commitment to reducing its manufacturing carbon footprint consistently. But the journey is collective. Tripathy emphasises the synergy of lubricant manufacturers, the government, OEMs, and consumers to fast-track progress. It's a narrative that extends beyond the confines of business strategy, echoing the universal call for a sustainable future. Lubricants, though often overlooked, are the silent enablers of a modern, efficient world. Tripathy underscores the need to elevate the relevance of this category, aligning product performance with sustainability credentials. In the Asia-Pacific landscape, opportunities and challenges coexist. The cost-conscious nature of consumers, especially in Asia, is a significant hurdle. Yet, the gap between OEM recommendations and actual lubricant usage unveils a window of opportunity. Electric vehicles (EVs) loom on the horizon, yet Tripathy is optimistic. With 60% of the category rooted in manufacturing and commercial vehicles, the immediate impact of electrification is muted. Shell is already ahead, with a portfolio of electric vehicle lubricants and a focus shift from mere lubricants to comprehensive friction reduction solutions. In the dynamic narrative of sustainability, Shell emerges not just as a participant but as a storyteller, weaving a future where business strategy and ecological responsibility converge seamlessly.

Good morning, and welcome to another episode of the F+L podcast. I'm your host, Vicky Denton, and today we're joined by Jeff Harmening, a senior program manager for the American Petroleum Institute (API). This is Jeff's second time on our show, and we're thrilled to have him back. Jeff is part of API's global industry services group and has been instrumental in the creation of a technical report that API recently released. This report, known as TR 1533, focuses on the life cycle assessment for lubricants, a topic of growing importance in our industry. The journey to TR 1533 began in June 2021 when API's lubricants group established a sustainability work group. This group was tasked with gathering subject matter experts from all stakeholders in the lubricants value chain. These experts, from oil marketers, base oil manufacturers, re-refiners, and lubricant additive companies, worked tirelessly to assemble the framework for TR 1533. Their hard work and dedication, coupled with a rigorous meeting cadence, allowed the group to prepare a draft for ballot with the API lubricants group in just over a year. The result was the publication of TR 1533 in May 2023. The report is available on the API website, accessible free of charge. The full title of the report is "Lubricants Life Cycle Assessment and Carbon Footprinting Methodology and Best Practice." To download the report, click here: https://www.api.org/-/media/Files/Certification/Engine-Oil-Diesel/Publications/API%20TR%201533.pdf

Researchers are looking to create new lubricants and fluids for electric vehicles (EVs) that consider issues such as materials compatibility, electrical conductivity, and thermal management. Lithium batteries are currently the most efficient, and companies are working to create more effective additives and coatings to increase wear resistance and reduce weight. There is a focus on recycling and reusing lithium batteries in order to reduce environmental impact and create a circular economy. Dr. Ali Erdemir, professor of Mechanical Engineering and Halliburton Chair in Engineering at Texas A&M University, discussed the development of electric vehicle lubricants that have high thermal conductivity, electrical breakdown resistance, and lubricating properties, while also minimising the carbon footprint. He noted that lithium batteries are currently the most efficient and available, but research is being done to find other more efficient and available batteries. Dr. Erdemir also discussed the importance of recycling and reusing lithium, as the increasing population and demands for electric vehicles could lead to a shortage of lithium. Prior to joining Texas A&M, Dr. Erdemir worked at Argonne National Laboratory. In recognition of his research accomplishments, Dr. Erdemir has received numerous coveted awards and has been elected to the U.S. National Academy of Engineering, European Academy of Sciences and Arts, World Academy of Ceramics, The Science Academy of Turkey, and the presidency of the International Tribology Council and the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE). He is also a Fellow of NAI, AAAS, ASME, STLE, AVS, and ASM-International.  Dr. Erdemir has authored and co-authored more than 300 research articles and 18 book/handbook chapters, co-edited four books, presented more than 200 invited/keynote/plenary talks, and holds 34 U.S. patents. His current research focuses on bridging scientific principles with engineering innovations towards the development of new materials, coatings, and lubricants for a broad range of cross-cutting applications in manufacturing, transportation and other energy conversion and utilisation systems. 

Mario Majic, head of Strategic Business Development, Marketing & Corporate Governance at Avista Oil AG, says that with today's re-refining technology, base oils produced from spent lubricants can compete head on with “virgin” base oils. Speaking with F&L Asia  in Episode 31 of the F+L Webcast, Majic said re-refined base oils from Avista can achieve up to 90% CO2 emissions savings from cradle to gate compared to primary refined base oils. Historically, buyers expect a discount when they purchase re-refined base oils. However, that's starting to change, says Majic. “A couple of years ago, we were not able to achieve premium prices for our products, but the market is changing. If demand for something is rising and supply is limited, we know what is going to happen,” he says. Avista is a German re-refiner with about 300,000 tons per year of combined base oil production footprint in Germany, Denmark and the United States. The company produces Group II in the United States and is upgrading its facility in Germany to produce Group III. Majic says that “Oil can be green, oil can be clean and oil can be sustainable.” His wish list is to see carbon footprint included in future base oil specifications. In Europe, as well as the rest of the world, the industry uses the base oil classification contained in Annex E of API 1509. API 1509 describes the voluntary Engine Oil Licensing and Certification System (EOLCS) of the American Petroleum Institute (API). All base stocks are divided into five categories. Groups I to III are classified according to their saturates, sulfur and viscosity index (VI). Group IV base stocks are polyalphaolefins (PAOs) and Group V are all other base stocks that are not Groups I-IV. 

In 2019, Sofia Öberg established 2Probity Registration, an independent third-party organization that provides product registrations of non-food compounds according to the regulations of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). With ​​her background in management systems, legal requirements and audits, Öberg was not daunted in competing with established organizations such as U.S.-based NSF International, which is a "giant" in this field. In this episode, Öberg discusses how third-party organizations like 2Probity help ensure that bakery goods and other food products are kept safe for human consumption. The U.S. FDA's Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21 governs food and drugs within the United States but in reality is used worldwide. Ingredients that can be used in lubricants and greases that may come into incidental contact with food are classified as H1. These are called food-grade lubricants. H2 products are lubricants and greases not suitable for food contact. However, the FDA does not approve or register lubricants. So it is up to third-party organizations like 2Probity and NSF to certify that your products are either H1 or H2. Öberg has a Master's degree with a focus in Environmental Science from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. One year after graduation, in 2002, she started a consulting firm, Öbergs miljö & kvalitetskonsult, which is involved in the following areas linked to standards and legal requirements: environment, quality, health & safety, traceability for wood, and sustainability. Öbergs miljö & kvalitetskonsult, based in Gothenburg, has more than 20 years of experience and more than 500 clients not only in Sweden, but Europe-wide. Since 2008, Öberg has been lead auditor for ISO 14001, which sets out the criteria for an environmental management system, ISO 9001, which sets out the criteria for a quality management system, as well as FSC (FSC-COC) and PEFC (PEFC-COC) Chain-of-Custody certification. She also conducts training in the fields of environment, quality, health & safety, traceability and management systems as well as internal audits. She is a member of the European Lubricating Grease Institute's (ELGI) Task Force on Regulations and Communication for Sustainability (ELGISTC) and chair of ELGI's Food, Greases and Lubricant Working Group (FGLWG).

In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Afyren started construction of a unique, low-carbon, zero-waste biorefinery to produce bio-based acids in Carling Saint-Avold in France's Moselle region. The plant, called Afyren Neoxy, is a greenfield biorefinery in a brownfield chemical complex called Chemesis in eastern France. It is also located in an area surrounded by sugar beet production basins. Afyren uses co-products of sugar beets to produce its bio-based acids. The plant Afyren Neoxy, was inaugurated in September 2022 and is in the start-up process. Afyren Neoxy is 51% owned by Afyren and 49% by the Société de Projets Industriels (SPI), a fund managed by Bpifrance. Investment in Afyren Neoxy was EUR80 million (USD84 million). In October 2021, the company launched an initial public offering (IPO) in Euronext Paris, raising EUR66 million (USD69 million), which it now plans to deploy to build a second and third plant somewhere in Southeast Asia and North America, and to conduct further research and development. The company believes it can fill a void in the lubricant industry by supplying bio-based acids where traditionally fossil-based products are being used to produce esters, one of several synthetic base stocks that are used in the formulation of industrial, and to a certain extent, automotive products.

Anne-Gaelle Morin is an R&D and technical strategy leader with 25 years of international scientific, regulatory and industrial experience building up to a strong expertise in all chemistry for mobility. For the last 10 + years, she has been in directorial roles outreaching into technical and sales fields, skilled into transforming new technology needs into precise technical roadmaps for portfolio management, transformation and consolidation. Anne joined VeryOne, a EURENCO company, focused on the development, production and sales of 2-EHN cetane improver and fuel additives based in Sorgues, France,. in 2015 as product manager, Additives. In 2017, she was promoted R&D director. VeryOne has the world's largest production capacity for 2-ethylhexyl nitrate (2-EHN)—80,000 metric tons per annum—one of the main cetane improver additives manufactured today. EURENCO is the European leader in military explosives, propellants and fuels, EURENCO also supplies explosives for the civil sector such as oil and gas drilling and mining. In this podcast, Anne talks about the role of cetane improvers in diesel fuel and its future role in renewable diesel. She also explains how the upcoming Euro 7 regulations are going to be complex and expensive. She believes that the diesel engine will not disappear by 2035, despite the impending ban in the European Union, because in certain applications, there are no better alternatives. “There is no perfect solution to replace diesel,” she says. With regards to renewable diesel, there will be stiff competition for feedstocks, which she believes will mostly go to the aviation sector, where sustainable aviation fuel is currently the only viable option to fossil-based jet fuel.

Selim Erhan has a Ph.D. in Organic-Polymer Chemistry from Western Michigan University. He started his career as a research scientist at the National Center for Agricultural Research Service of the U.S, Department of Agriculture (USDA). At USDA, he worked on finding industrial applications for vegetable oils in areas such as rubber, paper, agricultural sprays, pharmaceuticals, food, lubricant, and oil field applications. Later, he moved into industry and worked as a research scientist formulating lubricants at D. A. Stuart Company, Georgia Pacific, Polartech, Afton, Elevance Renewable Sciences and worked on finished metalworking formulations, additive packages for metalworking fluids, oil field drilling products, cleaners, and lubricant formulations. Then, he worked at Archer Daniels Midland Company, following market development for vegetable oils as the global commercial development manager for Industrial Oils. Currently, Dr. Erhan is the director of Technical Business Development at Process Oils Inc., an Ergon company, focusing on using the advantages of vegetable oils and derivatives in industrial applications. In this episode of F+L Webcast, Dr. Erhan discusses growth areas for vegetable oil-based process oils, which are being driven by society's desire for more sustainable products.

In Episode 26 of F+L Webcast, David Barned, senior vice president and general manager of the North American Business Unit of Master Fluid Solutions based in Perrysburg, Ohio, U.S.A., discusses supply chain issues during the Covid-19 pandemic and post-covid challenges. David became senior vice president and general manager of the North American Business Unit of Master Fluid Solutions in October 2021. He began his career with Master Fluid Solutions in 1992 as a training specialist, helping implement the company's pioneering fluid management protocols. After a decade as a district manager in both Indiana and Texas, David was promoted to director of Business Development, where he used his unique insight into the industry to drive growth. In 2008, after two years working with the research and development team to transform Master Fluid's metalworking fluid product line, David transitioned to global marketing, where he became instrumental in shaping the Master Fluid Solutions brand into a worldwide leader. Later on, he held positions as vice president of Global Marketing, global vice president of Operations and Supply Chain, and general manager of the North American Business Unit. As senior vice president and general manager of the North American Business Unit, David will continue shaping and executing strategies to further solidify Master Fluid Solutions' position as a global leader in metalworking fluid quality and innovation. David was active in the Asian Lubricants Industry Association (ALIA), where he served a two-year term as chairman of the Professional Development Subcommittee until 2022, when he had a global role at Master Fluid Solutions.

Hind Abi-Akar recently retired from Caterpillar, the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines and diesel-electric locomotives. While at Caterpillar, Hind, who has a PhD in Materials Science, worked in the Fluids Group where she was involved in the development of Caterpillar lubricants. She also represented the company in external organizations such as The Engine and Truck Manufacturers Association (EMA), ASTM International, the American Petroleum Institute (API) and others, with a focus on the development of new categories, new products and industry specifications. Hind was also very active in fuels and alternative fuels. In Episode 25 of F+L Webcast, Hind provides insights on the current heavy duty engine oil (HDEO) category development process and why she believes the current process works. She also discusses the challenges of working in a traditionally male-dominated industry in a career spanning more than two decades. Watch the video of this interview on our website: https://www.fuelsandlubes.com/podcasts/caterpillars-hind-abi-akar-on-why-the-current-hdeo-process-works/

Episode 24 of F+L Webcast features Anand Bhargav, global segment manager for main-tier PCMO [passenger car motor oil] and small engines segments at Chevron Oronite Pte Ltd based in Singapore. Bhargav discusses a new JASO motorcycle engine oil specification which is set to be released in early 2023. This update will allow for the use of lower viscosity oils, providing better lubrication and protection for motorcycle engines. Watch the video on Youtube: https://youtu.be/n5yh4ZdMQbs

Jeffrey (Jeff) Brown has extensive experience bringing new technologies to market and is a pioneer in the field of renewable chemicals. Prior to co-founding and becoming president and CEO of Novvi, he was a vice president at Amyris, a synthetic biotechnology and renewable chemical company headquartered in Emeryville, California, U.S.A., developing new products from synthetic biology. During F+L Week 2022 in Bangkok, Thailand, I spoke with Jeff about how he became part of the lubricants industry after graduating from Stanford University with an MS in Mechanical Engineering and working in Silicon Valley. Jeff talks about how he moved Novvi from his garage in Silicon Valley to one of the most successful producers of renewable base oils today, with investors that include U.S. energy major Chevron Corp. “Very early on, we made a strategic decision to make a hydrocarbon” from renewable materials, he said. “We moved from synthesizing esters to looking at how do we make a hydrocarbon.” Listen to episode 23 to find out more about Novvi.

Eric G. Holthusen, group chief technology officer at Petronas Lubricants International Sdn. Bhd. (PLI), has a wealth of experience in the lubricants industry and has forged a distinguished career since joining Shell in Hamburg, Germany in 1989. During his time at Shell, Eric held a variety of roles in lubricants and fuels technology, testing, and marketing. In 2001, he took up the role of managing director of Shell Research Eastern in Singapore and as fuels technology manager for the region. In 2004, Eric moved to Shell's Asia Pacific Service Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to lead the regional fuel technology group with responsibility for managing the technical implementation of retail fuels globally from 2010. In 2011, he joined Saudi Aramco as an advisor to their R&D organisation, developing their downstream technology strategy and implementing a global R&D network with laboratories in Europe, America and Asia. In 2013, he moved to Petronas Lubricants International where he was chief operating officer until August 2018. As group chief technology officer, Eric oversees business technology, R&D, innovation and technology commercialisation at the Malaysian company.

In this episode, Dr. Nuwong Chollacoop, Renewable Energy Research Team Leader at the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) in Thailand, shares the latest biodiesel and electric vehicle (EV) trends in Thailand. Thailand currently mandates all petroleum diesel being sold in Thailand to be blended with 7% biodiesel. Thailand is the world's third largest producer of palm oil, but a distant third from Indonesia and Malaysia. Majority of its palm oil is produced by small-scale farmers, unlike in Indonesia and Malaysia. To protect its local industry, it restricts palm oil imports, a good thing for Thailand, as Indonesia has recently announced that it will ban exports of both crude palm oil and its refined products, sending palm oil futures prices on the Malaysian exchange surging nearly 10% after the announcement at the end of April. The export ban will be reviewed monthly, according to a Reuters report. In 2024, Thailand will mandate Euro V emission standards, “we have to make sure we can co-exist between helping air pollution emission not increasing too much and at the same time, we satisfy domestic demand for palm oil.” In Thailand, 50% of palm oil production is used by the transport sector. Dr. Nuwong also discussed electric vehicle trends in Thailand. He believes that EV is good in the personal car sector, but for truck and long-range transportation, diesel will continue to play a role. Fuel cell can be a solution to replace diesel, he suggests.

An OEM-led consortium is trying to transform how global vehicle fluid specifications are being defined today to meet society's carbon neutrality goals by 2035 and 2050. Carbon neutrality goals are definitely going to drive the performance standards and specifications coming out of the International Fluids Consortium (IFC), said Mike Kunselman, business development manager of Michigan, U.S.A.-based Center for Quality Assurance (CQA). CQA is the administrator of the IFC program. “Obviously this is an OEM-specific goal, but when you look at many of the governments around the world, the target of carbon neutral by 2050, and 50% carbon reduction by 2035 will drive what IFC is doing,” said Kunselman. The International Fluids Consortium is a not-for-profit legal entity based in the U.S. currently consisting of 11 OEMs and an equal number of industry affiliate members. One part of its mission is to make IFC a sustainable program through trademark licensing and ultimately move things forward for the industry, said Kunselman. IFC currently has two technical committees focused on specifications and standards. One is focused on engine oils used in internal combustion engines (ICE), while the second is focused on fluids for electrified vehicles or electrified powertrains. Kunselman said that the IFC is taking the approach to involve not only vehicle OEMs, but also OEMs providing the hardware for the electrification of the powertrain or so-called Tier 1 OEMs, in the EV fluids technical committee. This is where IFC really does have a head start on the industry in general, said Kunselman. IFC is bringing together a collective voice on the practical application of fluid technology and what the standards and specifications will be for fluids for electrified powertrains. A prelude to 2035 and 2050 The process for defining fluid quality through standards and specifications is so critical, he said. “When you go back to the Ford Model T, the first mass-produced vehicle, that was only 115 years ago, in the 1910s. “We look at the technology then, even just making the model T go down the road and how to switch gears, it was a deadly process. People would get injured doing that. Now we are at this point saying we are completely changing the powertrain to something that requires combustion to something that requires electricity. We are talking about kilowatt-hours per kilometer driven. It is a total change. The process behind defining what is needed, if that is very clear what is the goal, if the process is such that it brings the industry together and builds consensus and does not lose sight of the vehicle owner ultimately benefiting, that's what drives me. How do we make this better, how do we make it more efficient? It all comes back to quality, cost and time,” Kunselman said.

Indian Oil Corp. (IndianOil), a Fortune 500 company, remains a clear lubricants market leader in India, three decades after India deregulated its lubricants market. In this interview, Dr. SSV Ramakumar describes his journey from a young chemist fresh from obtaining his doctorate in chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology-Roorkee to becoming the esteemed director of R&D, as well as Planning & Business Development, at IndianOil. In 1992, IndianOil had to protect its market share from private players and multinational oil companies who re-entered the Indian lubricants market following deregulation. “Everybody's gain was our loss. They were eating from our pie. Our pie was being sliced up. It was almost a monopoly at that time and we were enjoying a market share of tending 60%,” he recalled. Deregulation changed IndianOIl's R&D's focus to developing “customer centric, cost-efficient products, products with differentiation." Ramakumar also narrates India's recent transition from Bharat Stage IV to Bharat Stage VI, skipping altogether the intermediate stage, the equivalent of Euro V, in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. Without fanfare, Ramakumar said, IndianOil successfully switched all of its refineries, pipelines, terminals, oil depots and retail outlets, to producing and distributing BS-VI compliant petrol and diesel fuels at the stroke of midnight on April 1, 2020. To illustrate how huge this undertaking was, IndianOil owns 11 of India's 23 refineries, with a total capacity of 80 million metric tons per annum. IndianOil also owns 15,000 kilometers (km) of the total 23,000 km pipeline in the country. Additionally, the state-owned oil company owns 35,000 out of the 60,000 retail outlets in the country. Ramakumar, who was recently conferred a Fellowship by the National Academy of Engineering, is the recipient of numerous awards. Besides serving on the board of IndianOil, Ramakumar is also on the boards of Lanzatech, USA; Green Gas Ltd.; IndianOil Total Pvt. Ltd.; IOT Biogas Pvt. Ltd.; IndOil Montney Ltd., Canada, etc. He also presides over several national scientific societies, including the International Council of Internal Combustion Engines, India Chapter; Indian Society of Fuels and Lubricants; National Lubricating Grease Institute, Indian Chapter; and the Tribology Society of India. He also spearheads Start-Up initiatives of IndianOil. Learn about IndianOil's journey, especially its efforts to decarbonize, by listening to this podcast.

Monica Johansson has been on a running streak for 1,170 days. Her goal is to take 20,000 steps a day. She runs about 20 minutes every day. She also runs four to five ultramarathons a year. An ultramarathon is anything above a regular marathon, which is 42.195 kilometers. Johansson has worked for Volvo Cars since June 2011 as fuels engineer and then with Volvo Group since March 2019. She received her Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH) in Stockholm, Sweden, in 2004 and her PhD in Internal Combustion Engines with Alternative Fuels as subject, from Chalmers Technical University in Gothenburg, Sweden, in 2012. Her PhD thesis was entitled “Fischer-Tropsch and FAME Fuels as Alternatives for Diesel Engines; an Experimental Study.” Volvo Group, which is headquartered in Gothenburg, is one of the world's leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment and marine and industrial engines. It has set a target to reduce CO2 emissions by 40% by 2030. In October 2021, it earned the distinction of having produced the world's first fossil-free steel vehicle, in collaboration with SSAB. “I can relate my ultramarathon to my work,” says Johansson. “It's taking small steps at a time and looking at the finish line. Everybody is so motivated to get these sustainable vehicles on the road,” she adds. “There are many challenges but I like to see them as challenges and not disadvantages. I think we should work together. This collaboration is very important.” The Volvo Group's brand portfolio consists of several distinct brands, targeting different customers, stakeholders, segments and markets, including Volvo, Volvo Penta, Terex Trucks, Renault Trucks, Prevost, Nova Bus, Mack, and Arquus. Its joint ventures include Shandong Lingong Construction Machinery Co (SDLG) in China, which is focused on reliable and competitive equipment primarily in China and other emerging markets; Eicher, one of the largest players in the Indian mainstream commercial vehicle market; DongFeng Trucks, which manufactures heavy and medium duty trucks, for demanding operations in long haul, regional and local distribution and for tough construction, mining and off-road operations in China; and, Cellcentric, a 50-50 joint venture between Daimler Truck AG and the Volvo Group, which is responsible for all activities along the entire value chain for fuel cell systems. In her role as a fuel and energy analyst for a global company, Johansson says: "We need to develop engines and drivelines for the world. There are some places in Asia where renewable electricity and renewable hydrogen is not the biggest part of electricity production.There will be a lot of these hubs where you will be able to do this, but it is very important to look at the well to wheel to reduce emissions. It is not only CO2 emissions. We have to look at the entire lifecycle." “We will not phase out the combustion engine. There will be applications where we need it. But of course, with combustion engines, you need to have renewable fuels. It can be electric fuels, it can be biofuels, and of course, we have our LNG engines that can operate on liquid biogas. So we will have the combustion engine, the battery electric vehicle and fuel cell electric vehicle operating on hydrogen.”

Dr. Boris Zhmud, born in Russia, now based in Stockholm, Sweden, has more than 20 years of professional experience in lubricants and lubrication engineering. He has authored or co-authored more than 80 peer-reviewed publications and has several patents. He currently consults on tribological problems for companies in Europe, including in Germany and in the UK. He is also a member of the British Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), and the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE). In tribology, theory is good to explain observations in retrospect. But the predictive power of tribology is rather limited, he says. "Tribology is very much an empirical science. In empirical science, you have a huge amount of data, but what is usually published is only positive results." However, he believes that negative results are as valuable as positive results. "That's really what can be done by using big data analysis and artificial intelligence (AI). You can accumulate all your previous test information. You can get much more reliable information for your next step." Artificial intelligence is a very important area for the development of tribology, he says. "It is really remarkable what you can achieve." In this episode of F+L Webcast, Dr. Zhmud discusses the beauty of tribology, the new tribological challenges of electrical vehicles, and why the energy transition should be an evolution, not a revolution.

In today's environment, it is no longer politically correct to espouse the importance of the internal combustion engine in light of the climate change movement. Episode 16 of F+L Webcast with Eugene Tan takes a different perspective on the role of lubricants in the context of climate change. Tan, senior advisor of GXS Partners, a consulting company focused on strategic advisory and business operational solutions that work in Asia, has over 30 years of Industry experience before retiring as BP's director of Global Supply Chain for Asia & Pacific, leading the development of bulk and packed supply chain strategy and execution for the Asia and Pacific regions, including the Middle East. Scope 3 is a particularly challenging measure, because it measures use and the consequence of use, says Tan. Scope 3 contributes to the highest percentage of an oil companies' carbon footprint, some would argue as much as 90%. Because the purpose of lubricants is to reduce friction and improve the performance of engines, therefore lubricants in itself actually reduces carbon emissions, he argues. There will be challenges with regards to packaging and how spent lubricants are managed, he admitted. “But we believe this can be handled.” In this episode, Tan explains why multinational corporations (MNCs) should pivot their lubricant businesses' focus to Asia. In addition, he says “we believe that independent lubricant companies and Asian national oil companies would have a higher likelihood of accepting that the internal combustion engine supports the development of mobility in Asia at the lowest environmental impact,” due to the fact that the use of coal in power generation is more polluting. In this deep-dive into the future of the lubricants industry in Asia, Tan expects the internal combustion engine in transport is going to be around much longer than most people have projected. As we drive for greater efficiencies, the quality of lubricants in Asia is going to improve dramatically, he says. “It will be a quality game. It will be a value game. Asia will be the center of the lubricants industry globally.”

In this episode, Rebecca Warden discusses the work of the Advanced Fluids for Electrified Vehicles (AFEV) consortium at Southwest Research Institute (SwRI). Warden, who is the manager of the Fleet and Driveline Fluids Evaluation Section at SwRI, is co-project manager of the AFEV consortium. During her 12-year career at SwRI, Warden has been involved with projects ranging from test stand design and development, standardized lubricants testing, and next-generation research and development. With the rapidly growing and changing electric vehicle (EV) market, there is so much we don't know, she says. The purpose of the consortium is to find the tools to enable the traditional oil and additive companies to develop the best lubricants for electric vehicles. High-speed durability, materials compatibility, and electrical conductivity are the focus areas of the consortium during its first year. Not only is there a wide variety of hardware types available globally today, but they are also changing rapidly, she notes. “We are trying to anticipate what the industry is going to look like in five or 10 years and enable the studies that we are doing to be generic enough so that next-generation fluids can be developed for next-generation hardware,” says Warden.

We interview Keith Howard of Lubrizol about China VI, China VIb and the general China vehicle parc.

The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA) published the latest ACEA European Engine Oil Sequences on April 30, 2021, with first allowable use commencing on 1 May 2021. For the first time, ACEA has split the light- and heavy-duty specifications, with only the light-duty standards updated. The heavy-duty and passenger car efforts are moving at different speeds and some tests for the heavy-duty specification are not ready. During the latest episode of F+L Podcast, F+L Asia Ltd Editor-in-Chief, Vicky Villena-Denton, had a conversation with Chevron Oronite's Richard van den Bulk, to understand Europe's new engine oil requirements. Van den Bulk is managing the Global OEM Liaison Team within Chevron Oronite, a position he assumed in 2018. He is responsible for guiding the long-range strategies for automotive engine oil additive packages as well as lubricant technology for the newest engine technologies for the U.S.-based additive company. He is based in Rotterdam, The Netherlands. The two new ACEA Light Duty Engine Oil Sequences categories are A7/B7-21 for High Sulphated Ash, Phosphorous and Sulphur (SAPS), and the Lower SAPS, C6-21. One of the interesting aspects of the latest update is the inclusion of tests developed by ASTM International for the American Petroleum Institute (API) engine oil specifications and a JASO fuel economy test. In the past, different tests in Europe and the United States have examined the same type of parameters. ACEA has taken the pragmatic approach of seeking global alignment and cost reduction. An increasing number of countries are banning the internal combustion engine (ICE). Van den Bulk suggests politicians are being wooed by zero tank-to-wheel emissions and are not accounting for the full lifecycle impact of electric vehicles (EV)—particularly the energy-intensive battery manufacturing process. With the increasing politicisation of the ICE, and the increasing uptake of electric vehicles, will these be the last of the ACEA Engine Oil Sequences? It is incredibly challenging for OEMs to meet carbon dioxide limits and with future bans on ICE, investment in new technology is challenging. At this point, there has been no dialogue from ACEA on the development of specifications for EVs. ACEA specifications continue to focus purely on combustion engines.

Diego Brodoni, vice president/general manager for Valvoline Europe, discusses the dramatic changes in the lubricants market in Europe over the past 20 years, from product technology to supply chain, from sales channels to consumer behavior. The market is moving fast, says Mario Montuori, regional technology manager, Europe, for Valvoline International. The need to get higher fuel efficiency, rather than lowering the emissions. This is what we see mainly in Europe, he says, considering how governments are focused on reducing the emissions of carbon dioxide, rather than nitrogen oxide. There is quite a fast change in technologies, he adds, to adopt to the new requirements.

Multi-awarded tribologist Ashlie Martini, a professor of mechanical engineering at University of California, Merced, discusses the future of tribology and why a tribologist will always have a job. Tribology is an enabling or supporting technology, says Martini, who traces back tribology to ancient Egypt, although the term was coined only in the 1960s by Professor Peter Jost. Quantitative studies of friction can be traced as far back as 1493 though, when Leonardo da Vinci first noted the two fundamental 'laws' of friction. As tribology is a supporting technology, its future will depend on the future of other technologies, Martini says. "Tribology will evolve with them." Although she says the field of tribology is "competing with sexy science."

Infineum expects to publish its first sustainability report sometime in April 2021, says Maurizio Abbondanza, technology & sustainability director at Infineum UK Ltd. The upcoming report signals a transition towards greater sustainability. The Infineum representative believes such a stance is unavoidable for any company. Our businesses could be disrupted tomorrow by climate change as much as they have been disrupted today by Covid-19.

Downstream set to play a larger role for oil and gas companies Not too long ago, the only way to develop a wind or solar energy business was with the support of the government. Economics did not support a viable entry into these renewable energy markets. It is only in the last five to 10 years that companies could operate wind and solar from an economic perspective, says business strategist, Rob van Zwieteren.

ALMU Executive Director discusses his 35+ year career with Mobil, BP and Lubrizol, including 19 of those years in China. Now, he has taken on a new challenge since retiring in July 2018 from The Lubrizol Corporation, where he was Asia-Pacific region head based in China. Bernard will play a key role in guiding ALMU members through a period of transformation for the lubricants industry while meeting the organisation's ambitious growth targets. “My role is a new role. This role is to really drive and execute the over-arching mission ALMU has. To do this, I will need to provide the leadership to the ALMU Team. Delivering events, services, to all our members. I believe if we do it properly, and I believe we will, this will ensure that ALMU's growth and success will continue which will benefit all the members in ALMU. What's important over the next two years, the four priorities have already been set by ALMU. What I need to do is to be able to work very closely with our Chairman Pai Kok Tan, the ALMU Council and also the subcommittee leaders to help them make sure we deliver all the projects and initiatives that have been set up.”

Biosynthetic® Technologies recently announced the global launch of their new product line of novel additives for metalworking fluids (MWF) called Biocea™. These novel sustainable additives use the patented estolide technology. These MWF additives are biobased, biodegradable, non-bioaccumulative, and non-toxic. Biocea additives leverage Biosynthetic Technologies' proprietary estolide technology for high demanding water soluble, synthetic, and conventional oil additive applications. Biocea additives, which are produced from castor oil derivatives in India, enhance the lubricity, polarity, film strength, biostability, hydrolytic stability, and oxidative stability of the base fluid. In this podcast, Mark Miller, CEO of Biosynthetic Technologies, talks about this unique biodegradable MWF additive, plus the company's plan in the engine oil space, as it pursues its ILSAC GF-6 certification from the American Petroleum Institute (API) for its estolide base fluids.

By the end of September, there were 33 million cases of Covid-19, and more than one million deaths, worldwide. With the U.S. President, his wife and his close aide, contracting the virus themselves in early October, Covid-19 once again occupied the headlines throughout the world. Dr. Frederick Passman, one of a few industry experts on industrial microbial ecology, discusses how people can return to work safely in the industrial setting, where social distancing could be challenging. The greatest risk of exposure to airborne viruses occurs in enclosed spaces. Passman discusses the measures that can be taken to minimise the risks, and explains how it is not as simple as following general health guidance.

Top 5 Auto Trends: “Just-in-Time” being replaced by “Just-in Case” In our September 2020 edition of F+L Webcast, Michael Dunne, president of ZoZo Go, discusses the Top 5 Auto Trends and the Asian automobile market post Covid-19. Investment sentiment is swinging back to Southeast Asia, the darling of the 1990s, as the relationship between the U.S. and China continues to deteriorate. The principle of “Just-in-Time” or lean manufacturing is being replaced by “Just-in-Case,” as automakers move to diversify their production centres to Southeast Asia. ZoZo Go is an investment advisory firm that advises automakers, suppliers and investors on how to win in Asia.

Recorded on July 31, 2020 - In the latest episode of F+L Webcast, we speak with Trevor Gauntlett, an independent industry consultant with over 25 years' experience in Blue Chip Chemicals and Oil companies, including 18 years as the technical expert on Shell's Lubricant Additives procurement team. During the podcast, we delve into a variety of topics including the UK's upcoming withdrawal from the European Union and the likely impact on the lubricants industry. We discuss the effect on industry bodies such as the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) and the voluntary environmental certification EcoLabel; as well as concerns around what divergence in legislation could mean for the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) in the UK. We also consider how the Covid-19 pandemic has sharpened issues for both UK manufacturers and companies that rely on UK suppliers as part of integrated supply chains. Edits have been made for factual accuracy.

STLE turns 75 in 2020, but has had to cancel celebrations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. STLE President, Paul Hetherington, talks about how the organization is evolving to adapt to the unprecedented circumstances of 2020, Paul tells us a little about where STLE has come from, and where it is heading as a result of its Emerging Trends Report.

F&L Asia's Editor-in-Chief, Vicky Denton, interviews Tim Nadasdi, Product Development Advisor, Basestocks and Specialties at ExxonMobil Fuels and Lubricants discuss the future of Group I and Group II base oils in Asia, Europe and the Americas, as well as the effect that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on base oil and lubricant manufacturers large and small.

We interview Jeff Harmening, Manager of the Engine Oil Licensing Certification System (EOLCS) of the American Petroleum Institute (API) about GF-6, and their recent decision to open emergency provisional licensing for oils during the COVID-19 pandemic.