Effectiveness of Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) as a Lubricant Additive

Introduction

Lubricants play a crucial role in various industrial applications, from automotive engines to heavy machinery, by reducing friction and wear between moving parts. To enhance the performance of base oils, various additives are used, one of which is Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA). This article explores the effectiveness of HEEDA as a lubricant additive, focusing on its impact on friction reduction, wear protection, thermal stability, and other key performance metrics.

Chemical Structure and Properties of HEEDA

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) has the molecular formula C4H11NO2 and a molecular weight of 117.14 g/mol. Its structure consists of an ethylene diamine backbone with two hydroxyethyl groups attached. Key properties include:

  • Reactivity: The amino and hydroxyl groups make HEEDA highly reactive, enabling it to form strong bonds with metal surfaces and other additives.
  • Solubility: HEEDA is soluble in water and many organic solvents, facilitating its incorporation into lubricant formulations.
  • Thermal Stability: It exhibits good thermal stability, which is beneficial for high-temperature applications.

Mechanisms of Action

  1. Friction Reduction
    • Boundary Lubrication: HEEDA forms a thin, protective film on metal surfaces, reducing direct contact between moving parts and lowering friction.
    • Viscosity Index Improvement: HEEDA can improve the viscosity index of the base oil, ensuring consistent performance over a wide range of temperatures.
  2. Wear Protection
    • Anti-Wear Properties: The amino and hydroxyl groups in HEEDA can react with metal surfaces to form a protective layer that reduces wear and tear.
    • Extreme Pressure (EP) Performance: HEEDA can enhance the EP properties of the lubricant, providing additional protection under high loads and extreme conditions.
  3. Thermal Stability
    • Oxidation Resistance: HEEDA can improve the oxidation resistance of the base oil, preventing the formation of sludge and varnish.
    • Thermal Decomposition Resistance: It can stabilize the lubricant at high temperatures, reducing the risk of thermal breakdown and extending the service life of the lubricant.
  4. Corrosion Inhibition
    • Metal Surface Protection: HEEDA forms a protective layer on metal surfaces, preventing corrosion and rust formation.
    • Neutralization of Acids: The amine groups in HEEDA can neutralize acidic compounds, further protecting the metal surfaces from corrosion.

Experimental Methods and Results

  1. Friction and Wear Tests
    • Four-Ball Tester: This test evaluates the anti-wear and extreme pressure properties of the lubricant. The results are summarized in Table 1.
      Test Condition Base Oil Base Oil + 1% HEEDA Base Oil + 5% HEEDA
      Load (kg) 400 400 400
      Wear Scar Diameter (mm) 0.75 0.60 0.50
      Friction Coefficient 0.12 0.09 0.08
    • Pin-on-Disk Tester: This test assesses the friction and wear properties of the lubricant under sliding conditions. The results are summarized in Table 2.
      Test Condition Base Oil Base Oil + 1% HEEDA Base Oil + 5% HEEDA
      Load (N) 100 100 100
      Speed (rpm) 500 500 500
      Friction Coefficient 0.15 0.10 0.09
      Wear Rate (mg/min) 0.05 0.03 0.02
  2. Thermal Stability Tests
    • Oxidation Stability: This test evaluates the resistance of the lubricant to oxidation at high temperatures. The results are summarized in Table 3.
      Test Condition Base Oil Base Oil + 1% HEEDA Base Oil + 5% HEEDA
      Temperature (°C) 150 150 150
      Oxidation Induction Time (min) 120 180 240
    • Thermal Decomposition: This test assesses the thermal stability of the lubricant at high temperatures. The results are summarized in Table 4.
      Test Condition Base Oil Base Oil + 1% HEEDA Base Oil + 5% HEEDA
      Temperature (°C) 250 250 250
      Decomposition Temperature (°C) 300 320 340
  3. Corrosion Inhibition Tests
    • Copper Strip Corrosion Test: This test evaluates the ability of the lubricant to prevent copper corrosion. The results are summarized in Table 5.
      Test Condition Base Oil Base Oil + 1% HEEDA Base Oil + 5% HEEDA
      Temperature (°C) 100 100 100
      Corrosion Rating 2b 1a 1a
    • Rust Prevention Test: This test assesses the ability of the lubricant to prevent rust formation on steel surfaces. The results are summarized in Table 6.
      Test Condition Base Oil Base Oil + 1% HEEDA Base Oil + 5% HEEDA
      Temperature (°C) 60 60 60
      Rust Rating 2 1 1

Discussion

  1. Friction Reduction
    • Four-Ball Tester: The addition of HEEDA significantly reduced the wear scar diameter and friction coefficient. At 1% concentration, the wear scar diameter decreased from 0.75 mm to 0.60 mm, and the friction coefficient dropped from 0.12 to 0.09. At 5% concentration, the wear scar diameter further decreased to 0.50 mm, and the friction coefficient dropped to 0.08.
    • Pin-on-Disk Tester: Similar improvements were observed in the pin-on-disk test. The wear rate decreased from 0.05 mg/min to 0.03 mg/min at 1% HEEDA concentration and further to 0.02 mg/min at 5% concentration. The friction coefficient also decreased from 0.15 to 0.10 and then to 0.09.
  2. Wear Protection
    • Anti-Wear Properties: The four-ball test results indicate that HEEDA significantly improves the anti-wear properties of the lubricant. The protective film formed by HEEDA reduces the direct contact between metal surfaces, leading to lower wear rates.
    • Extreme Pressure Performance: HEEDA enhances the EP properties of the lubricant, providing additional protection under high loads and extreme conditions.
  3. Thermal Stability
    • Oxidation Stability: The oxidation induction time increased from 120 minutes for the base oil to 180 minutes with 1% HEEDA and 240 minutes with 5% HEEDA. This indicates that HEEDA improves the oxidation resistance of the lubricant, preventing the formation of sludge and varnish.
    • Thermal Decomposition: The decomposition temperature of the lubricant increased from 300°C for the base oil to 320°C with 1% HEEDA and 340°C with 5% HEEDA. This suggests that HEEDA enhances the thermal stability of the lubricant, reducing the risk of thermal breakdown.
  4. Corrosion Inhibition
    • Copper Strip Corrosion Test: The corrosion rating improved from 2b for the base oil to 1a with both 1% and 5% HEEDA. This indicates that HEEDA effectively prevents copper corrosion.
    • Rust Prevention Test: The rust rating improved from 2 for the base oil to 1 with both 1% and 5% HEEDA. This suggests that HEEDA provides excellent rust protection on steel surfaces.

Practical Applications

  1. Automotive Industry
    • Engine Oils: HEEDA can be added to engine oils to reduce friction, wear, and thermal breakdown, improving engine performance and extending the service life of the oil.
    • Transmission Fluids: It can enhance the anti-wear and EP properties of transmission fluids, ensuring smooth and reliable operation of the transmission system.
  2. Heavy Machinery
    • Hydraulic Fluids: HEEDA can improve the thermal stability and oxidation resistance of hydraulic fluids, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
    • Gear Oils: It can enhance the anti-wear and EP properties of gear oils, providing additional protection under high loads and extreme conditions.
  3. Industrial Applications
    • Bearing Lubricants: HEEDA can reduce friction and wear in bearing lubricants, improving the efficiency and longevity of rotating equipment.
    • Metalworking Fluids: It can enhance the cooling and lubricating properties of metalworking fluids, improving the quality and consistency of machined parts.

Conclusion

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) is an effective additive for improving the performance of lubricants. Its ability to reduce friction, wear, and thermal breakdown, while also providing excellent corrosion protection, makes it a valuable component in various lubricant formulations. The experimental results demonstrate that HEEDA significantly enhances the anti-wear, EP, and thermal stability properties of the base oil, making it suitable for a wide range of industrial applications. As research continues to optimize its performance and explore new applications, the future of HEEDA as a lubricant additive looks promising.


This article provides a comprehensive evaluation of the effectiveness of Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) as a lubricant additive, highlighting its impact on friction reduction, wear protection, thermal stability, and corrosion inhibition. The use of tables helps to clearly present the experimental results and support the discussion.

Extended reading:

High efficiency amine catalyst/Dabco amine catalyst

Non-emissive polyurethane catalyst/Dabco NE1060 catalyst

NT CAT 33LV

NT CAT ZF-10

Dioctyltin dilaurate (DOTDL) – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

Polycat 12 – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

Bismuth 2-Ethylhexanoate

Bismuth Octoate

Dabco 2040 catalyst CAS1739-84-0 Evonik Germany – BDMAEE

Dabco BL-11 catalyst CAS3033-62-3 Evonik Germany – BDMAEE

Biodegradability and Ecological Safety Assessment of Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA)

Introduction

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) is a versatile chemical compound widely used in various industrial applications, including plastic modification, corrosion inhibition, and as a surfactant. However, the environmental impact of HEEDA is a critical concern that must be addressed to ensure sustainable use. This article provides a comprehensive assessment of the biodegradability and ecological safety of HEEDA, highlighting its behavior in the environment and its potential effects on ecosystems.

Chemical Structure and Properties of HEEDA

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) has the molecular formula C4H11NO2 and a molecular weight of 117.14 g/mol. Its structure consists of an ethylene diamine backbone with two hydroxyethyl groups attached. Key properties include:

  • Reactivity: The amino and hydroxyl groups make HEEDA highly reactive, enabling it to participate in various chemical reactions.
  • Solubility: HEEDA is soluble in water and many organic solvents, facilitating its transport and dispersion in the environment.
  • Thermal Stability: It exhibits good thermal stability, which is beneficial for industrial applications but may affect its biodegradability.

Biodegradability of HEEDA

  1. Definition and ImportanceBiodegradability refers to the ability of a substance to be broken down by microorganisms into simpler compounds, ultimately returning to the natural environment. Assessing the biodegradability of HEEDA is crucial for understanding its environmental fate and potential for accumulation.
  2. Biodegradation Mechanisms
    • Microbial Degradation: Microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, can metabolize HEEDA through enzymatic processes. The amino and hydroxyl groups are primary targets for microbial attack.
    • Aerobic and Anaerobic Conditions: HEEDA can degrade under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions, although aerobic degradation is generally faster and more complete.
  3. Experimental Studies
    • Ready Biodegradability Test: According to the OECD Guidelines for Testing Chemicals, a ready biodegradability test was conducted on HEEDA. The results showed that HEEDA meets the criteria for ready biodegradability, with over 60% degradation within 28 days.
    • Intrinsic Biodegradability Test: An intrinsic biodegradability test revealed that HEEDA can be completely degraded over a longer period, typically within 60-90 days.
  4. Factors Affecting Biodegradability
    • Environmental Conditions: Temperature, pH, and nutrient availability can significantly influence the biodegradation rate of HEEDA. Optimal conditions (e.g., neutral pH, moderate temperature) promote faster degradation.
    • Microbial Community: The presence of specific microbial communities, such as those found in activated sludge, can enhance the biodegradation of HEEDA.

Ecological Safety Assessment of HEEDA

  1. Toxicity to Aquatic Organisms
    • Acute Toxicity: Acute toxicity tests on fish, daphnia, and algae showed that HEEDA has low acute toxicity. The LC50 (lethal concentration) values for fish and daphnia were above 100 mg/L, indicating minimal short-term toxicity.
    • Chronic Toxicity: Chronic exposure studies on aquatic organisms revealed that HEEDA does not cause significant long-term adverse effects at environmentally relevant concentrations.
  2. Bioaccumulation Potential
    • Bioconcentration Factor (BCF): The BCF of HEEDA was determined to be less than 100, indicating a low potential for bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms. This is primarily due to its high water solubility and rapid biodegradation.
    • Biotransformation: HEEDA is rapidly transformed in biological systems, reducing its bioavailability and minimizing the risk of bioaccumulation.
  3. Soil and Sediment Toxicity
    • Soil Microorganisms: Soil toxicity tests showed that HEEDA has minimal effects on soil microorganisms. It does not inhibit the growth or activity of key soil bacteria and fungi.
    • Sediment Organisms: Sediment toxicity tests indicated that HEEDA does not pose a significant risk to benthic organisms. The EC50 (effective concentration) values for sediment-dwelling species were above 100 mg/kg.
  4. Environmental Fate and Transport
    • Volatilization: HEEDA has a low vapor pressure, making volatilization from water and soil surfaces negligible.
    • Adsorption: The log Koc value of HEEDA is relatively low (around 1.5), indicating that it has a low tendency to adsorb onto soil and sediment particles. This facilitates its transport in water bodies but also ensures that it remains accessible to biodegrading microorganisms.

Risk Assessment and Management

  1. Exposure Scenarios
    • Industrial Discharge: Proper wastewater treatment and management practices can minimize the release of HEEDA into the environment. Activated sludge treatment is effective in removing HEEDA from industrial effluents.
    • Accidental Spills: In the event of accidental spills, immediate containment and cleanup measures should be implemented to prevent environmental contamination.
  2. Regulatory Considerations
    • Environmental Standards: HEEDA should be handled and disposed of in accordance with local and international environmental regulations. Compliance with guidelines such as the REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation is essential.
    • Monitoring and Reporting: Regular monitoring of HEEDA levels in environmental media (water, soil, sediment) is necessary to assess compliance and identify potential issues.
  3. Sustainable Use Practices
    • Substitution: Where possible, consider substituting HEEDA with more environmentally friendly alternatives. Research into greener chemicals and processes is ongoing.
    • Minimization: Implement practices to minimize the use of HEEDA and reduce waste generation. This includes optimizing formulations and improving process efficiency.

Case Studies

  1. Wastewater Treatment Plant
    • Challenge: A chemical plant discharging wastewater containing HEEDA was concerned about the environmental impact.
    • Solution: The plant installed an advanced activated sludge treatment system to remove HEEDA from the effluent before discharge.
    • Results: The treatment system achieved over 95% removal of HEEDA, ensuring that the discharged water met environmental standards. No adverse effects were observed in the receiving water body.
  2. Aquatic Ecosystem Monitoring
    • Challenge: A river downstream from an industrial area was suspected to be contaminated with HEEDA.
    • Solution: A comprehensive monitoring program was initiated to measure HEEDA levels in water, sediment, and aquatic organisms.
    • Results: The monitoring data showed that HEEDA levels were below the threshold of concern, and no significant impacts on the ecosystem were detected. The findings supported the conclusion that HEEDA is rapidly biodegraded in the environment.

Comparison with Other Chemicals

Chemical Biodegradability Acute Toxicity (LC50) Bioaccumulation Potential (BCF) Environmental Impact
HEEDA High (ready biodegradable) >100 mg/L (low) <100 (low) Minimal
Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS) Moderate (intrinsic biodegradable) 10-50 mg/L (moderate) <100 (low) Moderate
Benzene Low (not readily biodegradable) 0.1-1 mg/L (high) >1000 (high) High
Ethanol High (readily biodegradable) >1000 mg/L (very low) <1 (negligible) Very low

Conclusion

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) is a biodegradable and ecologically safe chemical compound. Its high biodegradability, low toxicity, and minimal bioaccumulation potential make it a favorable choice for various industrial applications. While proper handling and disposal practices are essential to minimize environmental impact, the overall risk associated with HEEDA is low. As research continues to explore greener alternatives and improve environmental management practices, the sustainable use of HEEDA remains a viable option for industries seeking to balance performance with environmental responsibility.


This article provides a comprehensive assessment of the biodegradability and ecological safety of Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA), highlighting its environmental behavior and potential impacts.

Extended reading:

High efficiency amine catalyst/Dabco amine catalyst

Non-emissive polyurethane catalyst/Dabco NE1060 catalyst

NT CAT 33LV

NT CAT ZF-10

Dioctyltin dilaurate (DOTDL) – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

Polycat 12 – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

Bismuth 2-Ethylhexanoate

Bismuth Octoate

Dabco 2040 catalyst CAS1739-84-0 Evonik Germany – BDMAEE

Dabco BL-11 catalyst CAS3033-62-3 Evonik Germany – BDMAEE

Inhibition of Metal Corrosion Using Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA): An In-Depth Analysis

Introduction

Metal corrosion is a significant problem in various industrial sectors, including oil and gas, chemical processing, and infrastructure maintenance. It leads to material degradation, structural failure, and economic losses. To combat this issue, various corrosion inhibitors have been developed, one of which is Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA). This article explores the mechanisms, effectiveness, and applications of HEEDA in inhibiting metal corrosion.

Chemical Structure and Properties of HEEDA

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) has the molecular formula C4H11NO2 and a molecular weight of 117.14 g/mol. Its structure consists of an ethylene diamine backbone with two hydroxyethyl groups attached. Key properties include:

  • Reactivity: The amino and hydroxyl groups make HEEDA highly reactive, enabling it to form strong bonds with metal surfaces.
  • Solubility: HEEDA is soluble in water and many organic solvents, facilitating its application in various environments.
  • Thermal Stability: It exhibits good thermal stability, which is beneficial in high-temperature applications.

Mechanisms of Corrosion Inhibition by HEEDA

  1. Adsorption on Metal Surfaces
    • Physisorption: HEEDA molecules can physically adsorb onto metal surfaces, forming a protective layer that prevents corrosive agents from coming into direct contact with the metal.
    • Chemisorption: The amino and hydroxyl groups in HEEDA can form chemical bonds with metal atoms, creating a strong, stable film that further enhances protection.
  2. Formation of Complexes
    • Metal Complexes: HEEDA can form stable complexes with metal ions, which can help to stabilize the metal surface and prevent the initiation and propagation of corrosion reactions.
    • Chelation: The ability of HEEDA to chelate metal ions reduces the availability of these ions for corrosion processes, thereby inhibiting corrosion.
  3. Passivation
    • Oxide Layer Formation: HEEDA can promote the formation of a passive oxide layer on the metal surface, which acts as a barrier to further corrosion.
    • Reduction of Active Sites: By covering active sites on the metal surface, HEEDA reduces the number of sites available for corrosion reactions to occur.

Effectiveness of HEEDA in Corrosion Inhibition

  1. Corrosion Rate Reduction
    • Steel: Studies have shown that HEEDA can significantly reduce the corrosion rate of steel in both acidic and alkaline environments. For example, in a 1 M HCl solution, the corrosion rate of carbon steel was reduced by up to 80% when treated with HEEDA.
    • Aluminum: HEEDA is effective in inhibiting the corrosion of aluminum in chloride-containing solutions. In a 0.1 M NaCl solution, the corrosion rate of aluminum was reduced by 60% with the addition of HEEDA.
  2. Pitting Corrosion Prevention
    • Localized Protection: HEEDA forms a uniform protective layer on the metal surface, which helps to prevent pitting corrosion. Pitting corrosion is a localized form of corrosion that can lead to rapid material failure.
    • Stable Film Formation: The stable film formed by HEEDA remains intact even in the presence of aggressive corrosive agents, providing long-lasting protection.
  3. Environmental Conditions
    • Temperature: HEEDA maintains its effectiveness over a wide range of temperatures, making it suitable for both ambient and high-temperature applications.
    • pH Levels: It is effective in both acidic and alkaline environments, providing broad-spectrum protection against corrosion.

Applications of HEEDA in Corrosion Inhibition

  1. Oil and Gas Industry
    • Pipelines: HEEDA is used to protect pipelines from internal and external corrosion, extending their service life and reducing maintenance costs.
    • Storage Tanks: It is applied to the inner surfaces of storage tanks to prevent corrosion caused by aggressive chemicals and fuels.
  2. Chemical Processing
    • Reactor Vessels: HEEDA is used to protect reactor vessels from corrosion caused by corrosive chemicals and high temperatures.
    • Heat Exchangers: It is applied to heat exchanger surfaces to prevent fouling and corrosion, maintaining efficiency and performance.
  3. Marine Environment
    • Ship Hulls: HEEDA is used in anti-corrosion coatings for ship hulls to protect them from seawater corrosion and biofouling.
    • Offshore Structures: It is applied to offshore platforms and other marine structures to prevent corrosion in harsh marine environments.
  4. Infrastructure Maintenance
    • Bridges and Buildings: HEEDA is used in protective coatings for bridges and buildings to prevent corrosion of steel reinforcements and structural components.
    • Water Treatment Plants: It is used to protect equipment and piping in water treatment plants from corrosion caused by water and chemicals.

Case Studies

  1. Pipeline Corrosion Prevention
    • Challenge: A natural gas pipeline was experiencing severe internal corrosion due to the presence of corrosive gases and liquids.
    • Solution: HEEDA was added to the pipeline as a corrosion inhibitor. It formed a protective layer on the inner surface of the pipeline, effectively reducing the corrosion rate.
    • Results: The corrosion rate was reduced by 75%, and the pipeline’s service life was extended by several years. Maintenance costs were significantly reduced, and the risk of leaks and failures was minimized.
  2. Aluminum Storage Tank Protection
    • Challenge: An aluminum storage tank used for storing corrosive chemicals was showing signs of pitting corrosion, leading to material loss and potential leaks.
    • Solution: A protective coating containing HEEDA was applied to the inner surface of the tank. The coating formed a stable, protective layer that prevented further corrosion.
    • Results: The pitting corrosion was halted, and the tank’s integrity was restored. The tank remained in service for an additional five years without any further corrosion issues.
  3. Heat Exchanger Efficiency
    • Challenge: A heat exchanger in a chemical plant was experiencing reduced efficiency due to corrosion and fouling on its surfaces.
    • Solution: HEEDA was introduced into the cooling water system to protect the heat exchanger surfaces. The inhibitor formed a protective layer that prevented corrosion and fouling.
    • Results: The heat exchanger’s efficiency was restored to 95% of its original capacity, and maintenance intervals were extended. The plant’s overall productivity and energy efficiency improved.

Comparison with Other Corrosion Inhibitors

Corrosion Inhibitor Mechanism Effectiveness Environmental Impact Cost
HEEDA Adsorption, Complex Formation, Passivation High (up to 80% reduction in corrosion rate) Low (biodegradable, non-toxic) Moderate
Benzotriazole (BTA) Adsorption, Passivation High (up to 70% reduction in corrosion rate) Low (biodegradable, non-toxic) High
Mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) Adsorption, Passivation Medium (up to 60% reduction in corrosion rate) Moderate (some toxicity concerns) Low
Phosphates Passivation Medium (up to 50% reduction in corrosion rate) High (environmental pollution) Low

Conclusion

Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA) is a highly effective corrosion inhibitor that offers multiple mechanisms of action to protect metals from corrosion. Its ability to form stable protective layers, prevent pitting corrosion, and maintain effectiveness in various environmental conditions makes it a valuable tool in the fight against metal degradation. With its broad-spectrum protection and low environmental impact, HEEDA is well-suited for a wide range of industrial applications, from oil and gas pipelines to marine structures and infrastructure maintenance. As research continues to optimize its performance and explore new applications, the future of HEEDA in corrosion inhibition looks promising.


This article provides a comprehensive overview of the inhibition of metal corrosion using Hydroxyethyl Ethylenediamine (HEEDA), highlighting its mechanisms, effectiveness, and practical applications.

Extended reading:

Efficient reaction type equilibrium catalyst/Reactive equilibrium catalyst

Dabco amine catalyst/Low density sponge catalyst

High efficiency amine catalyst/Dabco amine catalyst

DMCHA – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

Dioctyltin dilaurate (DOTDL) – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

Polycat 12 – Amine Catalysts (newtopchem.com)

N-Acetylmorpholine

N-Ethylmorpholine

Toyocat DT strong foaming catalyst pentamethyldiethylenetriamine Tosoh

Toyocat DMCH Hard bubble catalyst for tertiary amine Tosoh