Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd., Tokyo, has successfully developed high-performance Poly Alpha Olefin, a product that features outstanding low-temperature fluidity and low volatility using its unique metallocene catalyst technology. Sales will be launched in the first half of FY2010 to meet calls from major lubricant manufacturers around the world for early supply.

Idemitsu Kosan is the only manufacturer of alpha olefins (Product name: LINEALENE™) in Asia (except middle East Asia). One of the main applications of alpha olefins is PAO, widely used as the base oil for synthetic lubricants.

On this occasion, by using its own metallocene catalyst technology built up over many years as well as its unique molecular structure control technology, Idemitsu Kosan has succeeded in developing a high-performance PAO that, according to Idemitsu, features properties not realizable with conventional PAOs.

The main characteristics of the product developed are listed below.

1.Compared to conventional PAOs, the low viscosity grade features low viscosity and volatility, while the high viscosity grade offers superb low-temperature fluidity and viscosity with low dependence on temperature.

2.Compared to conventional PAOs, as a base oil for synthetic lubricants, the new product features excellent fuel economy and long life properties, significantly contributing to the reduction of impact on the environment.

3.A wide range of viscosity grades is available from low grades suitable for applications such as automotive engine oil to high grades suitable for high-value added industrial lubricants.

In the future, Idemitsu Kosan plans to expand sales of the product with a view to a full-scale commercialization by constructing its own plant.