DEVELOPMENT OF FORMULATIONS FOR ALUMINUM COMPLEX THICKENER SYSTEMS.

The purpose of this paper is to provide information on the development of starting formulations for the primary thickener systems for aluminum complex greases. Four primary raw materials are needed: an aluminum source, benzoic acid, a fatty acid, and a hydroxyl source. The most practical method of preparing and isolating the soap and then dispersing it in the oil involves the use of an aluminum alkoxide in an in situ preparation, and the alkoxide of choice is the isopropoxide. An example is given which shows the steps used in deriving a weight formulation from a molar ratio starting point.