United States demand for lubricant additives is forecast to increase 4.3 percent annually to nearly $3.9 billion in 2017.  A recovery in volume demand combined with a continued shift toward new, high performance (and more expensive) additive products will support growth in market value.  Key drivers for change will be the industry’s response to OEM performance requirements, fuel efficiency concerns, and emissions regulations. These and other trends are presented in Lubricant Additives, a new study from The Freedonia Group, Inc., a Cleveland-based industry market research firm.  

Environmental concerns will continue to play a major role in lubricant formulation and use.  Reduction in use of elements such as chlorine, phosphorus, sulfur, and metals has proceeded at a rapid pace over the past decade, particularly in automotive lubricants.  Although there is no immediate regulatory push for further reduction in use of these chemicals in automotive lubricants, end users in all markets will increasingly demand lubricants perceived to be less harmful to equipment, worker health, and the environment.  Use of more environmentally friendly fuels, including renewable fuels, in both automotive and industrial engines will also drive changes in lubricant formulation and additive demand -- with varied effects.  While the expansion of biodiesel in the motor vehicle fuel pool will require additives in diesel engine oils to provide better oxidation and corrosion protection, widening restrictions on sulfur in marine fuel oil may reduce the need for detergents in marine engine lubricants.

Lubricant Additives (published 04/2013, 212 pages) is available for $4900 from The Freedonia Group, Inc., 767 Beta Drive, Cleveland, OH  44143-2326.  For further details, please contact Corinne Gangloff by phone 440.684.9600, fax 440.646.0484 or e-mail pr@freedoniagroup.com. Information may also be obtained through www.freedoniagroup.com.