NOVEL FORMULATION APPROACH TO EXTEND THE HIGH TEMPERATURE PERFORMANCE OF LITHIUM COMPLEX GREASES IN ROLLING BEARINGS

Info

Publication number: 20190062669
Type: Application
Filed: Jun 18, 2018
Publication Date: Feb 28, 2019
Inventors: Nabila BRABEZ (Logan Township, NJ), John K. GRAHAM (Ardmore, PA), James E. SPAGNOLI (Leland, NC), Raymond C. ENNIS (Woodstown, NJ), John ZACHARKOW (Burlington, NJ)
Application Number: 16/010,704

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity and a method of making the same. The lithium complex grease includes: a lithium complex thickener, a friction modifier, a polymer or copolymer, and at least one synthetic base oil with alkylated naphthalene. The lithium complex grease can be substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene. Furthermore, the lithium complex grease can have a median failure rate with via ball bearing test (e.g., using the FE9 grease life test method of DIN 51 821) performed at 160° C. of no less than 100 hours.

Description

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/532,014 filed on Jul. 13, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to lubricating compositions and methods of making the same. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to lithium grease compositions with extended high temperature resistance and methods of making the same.

BACKGROUND

As technology advance and throughput increase with mechanical devices, there is an increased demand for higher temperature operating conditions and lubricating compositions, such as grease, with enhances resistance.

Lubricating formulations and greases with a wide assortment of different materials are known. For example, lithium complex greases are well known and can be made from any of a wide variety of base stocks of lubricating oil viscosity, as well as mixtures of base stocks. For example, lithium complex greases that comprise a lithium complex thickener and a lubricating base oil are well known. Greases have varied levels of desirable grease characteristics, such as dropping point, penetration, mechanical stability, shear stability, oxidation resistance, high temperature resistance, etc. These characteristics are used to describe the lubricating life of the particular grease.

Currently, lithium soap based greases represent approximately 80% of the lubricating grease market and generally provide acceptable lubricating performance. However, lithium soap based greases are limited by their high-temperature resistance. For example, lithium soap based grease in polyalphaolefin (PAO) based fluid maxes out at 140° C. Currently available high-temperature lithium greases are either composed of solid particles, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which induce wear and tear on the lubricated surface(s) (such as bearings, gears, slide plates, etc.), or polyester (POE) base oils, which are costly, are limited in certain properties and impractical for manufacture.

Thus, a need exists for high-temperature lubricating grease that has enhanced/extended high temperature resistance.

SUMMARY

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity. The lithium complex grease comprises: a lithium complex thickener; a friction modifier; a polymer or copolymer; and at least one synthetic base oil having alkylated naphthalene.

In some embodiments, the friction modifier is at least one of a molybdenum (Mo) friction modifier, molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC), molybdenum dithiophosphate (MoDTP), MOLYVAN® 822, MOLYVAN® 855, MOLYVAN® L, MOLYVAN® 807, MOLYVAN® A, MOLYVAN® 2000, ADEKA SAKURA LUBE 525, MOLYVAN® 3000, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the polymer or copolymer comprises at least one of ethylene, propylene, an ethylene-propylene co-polymer, or a combination thereof.

In additional embodiments, the polymer or copolymer is Vistamaxx™ 6202.

In other embodiments, the synthetic base oil includes at least one of an alkylated naphthalene base oil, a polyalphaolefin (PAO) base oil, alkylated naphthalene in PAO base oil, or a combination thereof.

In particular embodiments, the alkylated naphthalene base oil is at least one of Synesstic™ 5, Synesstic™ 12, or a combination thereof.

In certain embodiments, the PAO base oil is at least one of SpectraSyn™ 2, SpectraSyn™ 2B, SpectraSyn™ 2C, SpectraSyn™ 4, SpectraSyn™ 5, SpectraSyn™ 6, SpectraSyn™ 8, SpectraSyn™ 10, SpectraSyn™ 40, SpectraSyn™ 100, Syncon® Barrier Oil, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 3% to 30% of the lithium complex thickener; 0.75% to 10% of the friction modifier; 0.25% to 7% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; 13.0% to 76% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 6% to 20% of the lithium complex thickener; 1.0% to 6% of the friction modifier; 0.5% to 4% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; 30.0% to 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In an embodiment, the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

In yet another embodiment, the lithium complex grease comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of preparing a lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity. The method comprises mixing a lithium complex thickener, a friction modifier, a polymer or copolymer, and at least one synthetic base oil having alkylated naphthalene.

In some embodiments, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 3% to 30% of the lithium complex thickener; 0.75% to 10% of the friction modifier; 0.25% to 7% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; at least 13.0% to 76% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In other embodiments, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 6% to 20% of the lithium complex thickener; 1.0% to 6% of the friction modifier; 0.5% to 4% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; 30.0% to 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In other embodiments, the lithium complex grease has a median failure rate with a ball bearing test performed at 160° C. of no less than 100 hours.

In certain embodiments, the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

In additional embodiments, the lithium complex grease further comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.

Where applicable or not specifically disclaimed, any one of the embodiments described herein are contemplated to be able to combine with any other one or more embodiments or aspects, even though the embodiments are described under different aspects of the invention. These and other embodiments are disclosed or are obvious from and encompassed by, the following Detailed Description, including the Drawings and Examples herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The following detailed description, given by way of example, but not intended to limit the invention solely to the specific embodiments described, may best be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1. Table 8. Combination of Polymer, Friction Modifier, and Alkylated Naphthalene.

FIG. 2. Table 9—Base Line Lithium Complex Greases.

FIG. 3. Table 10—Effect of Molybdenum-Containing Friction Modifiers.

FIG. 4. Table 11—Effect of Co-thickener Alone and Alkylated Naphthalene Alone.

FIG. 5. Table 12—Combinations of Alkylated Naphthalene, Co-thickeners, Molybdenum Friction Modifiers, and Polymers.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The specification relates, in part, to the surprising discovery that the compositions of the present disclosure surprisingly and unexpectedly provide extended high-temperature resistance. A synergistic effect is achieved by the combination of ingredients in the composition of the present disclosure, thereby providing a superior high temperature resistance, which was heretofore unknown.

The following is a detailed description of the invention provided to aid those skilled in the art in practicing the present invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art may make modifications and variations in the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The terminology used in the description of the invention herein is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. All publications, patent applications, patents, figures and other references mentioned herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety and may be employed in the practice of the present invention.

Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are now described. All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference to disclose and described the methods and/or materials in connection with which the publications are cited.

The specification relates, in part, to the surprising discovery that the lubricating composition of the present disclosure provides enhanced high-temperature resistivity. It was also surprising and unexpected that the enhanced high-temperature resistivity is provided by a synergistic effect of the friction modifier, polymer, and base oil.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the meaning commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which this invention belongs.

The following terms may have meanings ascribed to them below, unless specified otherwise. However, it should be understood that other meanings that are known or understood by those having ordinary skill in the art are also possible, and within the scope of the present invention. In the case of conflict, the present specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

The articles “a”, “an”, and “the” as used herein and in the appended claims are used herein to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. By way of example, “an element” means one element or more than one element.

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one’ of or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e., “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of. ”

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures, Section 2111.03.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from anyone or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

It should also be understood that, in certain methods described herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited unless the context indicates otherwise.

Unless specifically stated or obvious from context, as used herein, the term “about” is understood as within a range of normal tolerance in the art, for example within 2 standard deviations of the mean. About can be understood as within 10%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1%, 0.05%, or 0.01% of the stated value. Unless otherwise clear from context, all numerical values provided in detailed description and claims are modified by the term “about.”

Any compositions or methods provided herein can be combined with one or more of any of the other compositions and methods provided herein.

Ranges provided herein are understood to be shorthand for all of the values within the range. For example, a range of 1 to 50 is understood to include any number, combination of numbers, or sub-range from the group consisting 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, or 50.

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the invention. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Compositions of the Present Disclosure

In an aspect, the disclosure provides a lithium complex grease that has surprising and unexpectedly high-temperature resistivity. The lithium complex grease comprises: a lithium complex thickener; a friction modifier; a polymer or copolymer; and at least one synthetic base oil having alkylated naphthalene.

In certain embodiments, the synthetic base oil includes an alkylated naphthalene base oil. Alternatively, the synthetic base oil may include an alkylated naphthalene bas oil and a polyalphaolefin (PAO) base oil or alkylated naphthalene in a PAO base oil. The present disclosure unexpectedly discovered that the combination of the polymer/co-copolymer (e.g., ethylene, propylene, an ethylene-propylene co-polymer, or a combination thereof), the alkylated naphthalene, and the friction modifier (such a molybdenum friction modifier) results in a synergistic increase in high-temperature resistivity. In an embodiment, the co-polymer is Vistamaxx™ 6202.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has about 10% to about 50% of alkylated naphthalene base oil. For example, the alkylated naphthalene base oil may be present in about 10.0% to about 50%, about 10% to about 45%, about 10% to about 40%, about 10% to about 35%, about 10% to about 30%, about 10% to about 25%, about 10% to about 20%, about 10% to about 15%, about 15% to about 50%, about 15% to about 45%, about 15% to about 40%, about 15% to about 35%, about 15% to about 30%, about 15% to about 25%, about 15% to about 20%, about 20% to about 50%, about 20% to about 45%, about 20% to about 40%, about 20% to about 35%, about 20% to about 30%, about 20% to about 25%, about 25% to about 50%, about 25% to about 45%, about 25% to about 40%, about 25% to about 35%, about 25% to about 30%, about 30% to about 50%, about 30% to about 45%, about 30% to about 40%, about 30% to about 35%, about 35% to about 50%, about 35% to about 45%, about 35% to about 40%, about 40% to about 50%, about 40% to about 45%, or about 25% to about 50% of the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has about 10% to about 80% of PAO base oil. For example, the PAO base oil may be present in about 10% to about 80%, about 10% to about 75%, about 10% to about 70%, about 10% to about 65%, about 10% to about 60%, about 10% to about 55%, about 10% to about 50%, about 10% to about 45%, about 10% to about 40%, about 10% to about 35%, about 10% to about 30%, about 10% to about 25%, about 10% to about 20%, about 10% to about 15%, about 15% to about 80%, about 15% to about 75%, about 15% to about 70%, about 15% to about 65%, about 15% to about 60%, about 15% to about 55%, about 15% to about 50%, about 15% to about 45%, about 15% to about 40%, about 15% to about 35%, about 15% to about 30%, about 15% to about 25%, about 15% to about 20%, about 20° A to about 80%, about 20% to about 75%, about 20° A to about 70%, about 20° A to about 65%, about 20° A to about 60%, about 20° A to about 55%, about 20° A to about 50%, about 20° A to about 45%, about 20° A to about 40%, about 20° A to about 35%, about 20° A to about 30%, about 20% to about 25%, about 25% to about 80%, about 25° A to about 75%, about 25° A to about 70%, about 25° A to about 65%, about 25° A to about 60%, about 25° A to about 55%, about 25° A to about 50%, about 25° A to about 45%, about 25° A to about 40%, about 25° A to about 35%, about 25° A to about 30%, about 30° A to about 80%, about 30° A to about 75%, about 30° A to about 70%, about 30° A to about 65%, about 30° A to about 60%, about 30° A to about 55%, about 30° A to about 50%, about 30° A to about 45%, about 30° A to about 40%, about 30° A to about 35%, about 35° A to about 80%, about 35° A to about 75%, about 35° A to about 70%, about 35° A to about 65%, about 35° A to about 60%, about 35° A to about 55%, about 35° A to about 50%, about 35° A to about 45%, about 35° A to about 40%, about 40° A to about 80%, about 40° A to about 75%, about 40° A to about 70%, about 40° A to about 65%, about 40° A to about 60%, about 40° A to about 55%, about 40° A to about 50%, about 40° A to about 45%, about 45° A to about 80%, about 45° A to about 75%, about 45° A to about 70%, about 45° A to about 65%, about 45° A to about 60%, about 45° A to about 55%, about 45% to about 50%, about 50% to about 80%, about 50% to about 75%, about 50% to about 70%, about 50% to about 65%, about 50% to about 60%, about 50% to about 55%, about 55% to about 80%, about 55% to about 75%, about 55% to about 70%, about 55% to about 65%, about 55% to about 60%, about 60° A to about 80%, about 60° A to about 75%, about 60° A to about 70%, about 60% to about 65%, about 65% to about 80%, about 65° A to about 75%, about 65° A to about 70%, about 60° A to about 80%, about 70° A to about 75%, about 75° A to about 80% of the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure.

In any aspect or embodiments described herein, the lithium complex grease has about 0.25% to about 7.0% of the polymer or copolymer. For example, the lithium complex grease has about 0.25° A to about 7.0%, about 0.25° A to about 6.0%, about 0.25° A to about 5.0%, about 0.25° A to about 4.0%, about 0.25° A to about 3.0%, about 0.25° A to about 2.0%, about 0.25° A to about 1.0%, about 0.25° A to about 0.75%, about 0.40° A to about 7.0%, about 0.40° A to about 6.0%, about 0.40° A to about 5.0%, about 0.40% to about 4.0%, about 0.40% to about 3.0%, about 0.40% to about 2.0%, about 0.40% to about 1.0%, about 0.40% to about 0.75%, about 0.5% to about 7.0%, about 0.5% to about 6.0%, about 0.5% to about 5.0%, about 0.5% to about 4.0%, about 0.5% to about 3.0%, about 0.5% to about 2.0%, about 0.5% to about 1.0%, about 0.5% to about 0.75%, about 1.0% to about 7.0%, about 1.0% to about 6.0%, about 1.0% to about 5.0%, about 1.0% to about 4.0%, about 1.0% to about 3.0%, about 1.0% to about 2.0%, about 2.0% to about 7.0%, about 2.0% to about 6.0%, about 2.0% to about 5.0%, about 2.0% to about 4.0%, about 2.0% to about 3.0%, about 3.0° A to about 7.0%, about 3.0% to about 6.0%, about 3.0% to about 5.0%, about 3.0% to about 4.0%, about 4.0% to about 7.0%, about 4.0% to about 6.0%, about 4.0% to about 5.0%, about 5.0% to about 7.0%, about 5.0° A to about 6.0%, or about 6.0° A to about 7.0% of the lithium complex grease of the disclosure.

The alkylated naphthalene base oil used in the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure is not particularly limited and can be any alkylated naphthalene base oil that is known or that becomes known. For example, the alkylated naphthalene base oil can be at least one of Synesstic™ 5, Synesstic™ 12, or a combination thereof. Similarly, the PAO base oil used in the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure is not particularly limited and can be any PAO base oil that is known or that becomes known. For example, the PAO base oil can be at least one of SpectraSyn™ 2, SpectraSyn™ 2B, SpectraSyn™ 2C, SpectraSyn™ 4, SpectraSyn™ 5, SpectraSyn™ 6, SpectraSyn™ 8, SpectraSyn™ 10, SpectraSyn™ 40, SpectraSyn™ 100, Syncon® Barrier Oil, or a combination thereof.

The lithium complex thickener used in the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure is not particularly limited and can be any lithium complex thickener that is known or that becomes known. For example, the lithium complex thickener can comprise a lithium soap derived from a fatty acid having: (a) (i) at least one of an epoxy group, ethylenic unsaturation, or a combination thereof, and (ii) a dilithium salt derived from a straight chain dicarboxylic acid; and/or (b) a lithium salt derived from a hydroxy-substituted carboxylic acid, e.g. salicylic acid.

For example, the lithium complex thickener can comprise at least one of: a complex of a lithium soap of a C₁₂to C₂₄hydroxy fatty acid and a monolithium salt of boric acid; a lithium salt of a second hydroxy carboxylic acid, such as salicylic acid; or a combination thereof.

The lithium complex thickener can comprise a lithium soap of a C₁₂to C₂₄hydroxy fatty acid thickener antioxidant having an alkali metal salt of hydroxy benzoic acid and a diozime compound. In certain embodiments, the alkali metal salt of hydroxy benzoic acid includes dilithium salicylate.

The lithium complex thickener can be a lithium soap comprising at least one of: a dilithium salt of a C₄to C₁₂dicarboxylic acid, e.g., dilithium azelate; a lithium soap of a 9-, 10- or 12-hydroxy C₁₂to C₂₄fatty acid, e.g., lithium 12-hydroxy stearate; and a lithium salt formed in-situ in the grease from a second hydroxy carboxylic acid, wherein the —OH group is attached to a carbon atom not more than 6 carbons removed from the carboxyl group and either of those groups can be attached to aliphatic portions of the materials or aromatic portions of the materials.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex thickener can comprise a complex lithium thickener and at least one of a lithium salt of a C₃to C₁₄hydroxycarboxylic acid, a thiadiazole, or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has about 3% to about 30% of the lithium complex thickener. For example, the lithium complex thickener may be present in about 3% to about 30%, about 3% to about 25%, about 3% to about 20%, about 3% to about 15%, about 3% to about 10%, about 3% to about 5%, about 5% to about 30%, about 3% to about 25%, about 5% to about 20%, about 5% to about 15%, about 5% to about 10%, about 10% to about 30%, about 10% to about 25%, about 10% to about 20%, about 10% to about 15%, about 15% to about 30%, about 15% to about 25%, about 15% to about 20%, about 20% to about 30%, about 20% to about 25%, or about 25% to about 30% of the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the friction modifier is any molybdenum based friction modifier. The molybdenum friction modifier is not particularly limited and can be any molybdenum friction modifier that is known or that becomes known. For example, the friction modifier can be at least one friction modifier selected from the group consisting of a molybdenum (Mo) friction modifier, molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC), molybdenum dithiophosphate (MoDTP), MOLYVAN® 822, MOLYVAN® 855, MOLYVAN® L, MOLYVAN® 807, MOLYVAN® A, MOLYVAN® 2000, ADEKA SAKURA LUBE 525, and MOLYVAN® 3000.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has about 0.75% to about 10% of the friction modifier. For example, the friction modifier may be present in about 0.75% to about 10.0%, about 0.75% to about 9.0%, about 0.75% to about 8.0%, about 0.75% to about 7.0%, about 0.75% to about 6.0%, about 0.75% to about 5.0%, about 0.75% to about 4.0%, about 0.75% to about 3.0%, about 0.75% to about 2.0%, about 0.75% to about 1.0%, about 1.0% to about 10.0%, about 1.0% to about 9.0%, about 1.0% to about 8.0%, about 1.0% to about 7.0%, about 1.0% to about 6.0%, about 1.0% to about 5.0%, about 1.0% to about 4.0%, about 1.0% to about 3.0%, about 1.0% to about 2.0%, about 2.0% to about 10.0%, about 2.0% to about 9.0%, about 2.0% to about 8.0%, about 2.0% to about 7.0%, about 2.0% to about 6.0%, about 2.0% to about 5.0%, about 2.0% to about 4.0%, about 2.0% to about 3.0%, about 3.0% to about 10.0%, about 3.0% to about 9.0%, about 3.0% to about 8.0%, about 3.0% to about 7.0%, about 3.0% to about 6.0%, about 3.0% to about 5.0%, about 3.0% to about 4.0%, about 4.0% to about 10.0%, about 4.0% to about 9.0%, about 4.0% to about 8.0%, about 4.0% to about 7.0%, about 4.0% to about 6.0%, about 4.0% to about 5.0%, about 5.0% to about 10.0%, about 5.0% to about 9.0%, about 5.0% to about 8.0%, about 5.0% to about 7.0%, about 5.0% to about 6.0%, about 6.0% to about 10.0%, about 6.0° A to about 9.0%, about 6.0° A to about 8.0%, about 6.0° A to about 7.0%, about 7.0% to about 10.0%, about 7.0% to about 9.0%, about 7.0% to about 8.0%, about 8.0% to about 10.0%, about 8.0° A to about 9.0%, about 9.0° A to about 10.0% of the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil. That is, in certain embodiments the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure has no PTFE present. While in other embodiments, the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure has no POE base oil present. In yet further embodiments, the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure has no PTFE and no POE base oil present.

The lithium complex grease of the present disclosure can further comprise at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant (such as an amine type antioxidant), a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof. The particular the emulsifier, co-thickener, corrosion inhibitor, wear inhibitor, tackiness agent, colorant, odor control agent, filler, and/or antioxidant is not limited. For example, the emulsifier, co-thickener, corrosion inhibitor, wear inhibitor, and antioxidant can be any emulsifier, co-thickener, corrosion inhibitor, wear inhibitor, tackiness agent, colorant, odor control agent, filler, and/or antioxidant that is suitable for use in grease, such as lithium complex grease, that is known or that becomes known.

For example, the wear inhibitor may be selected from the group consisting of anti-wear additives based on diphenyl cresyl phosphate, amine neutralized phosphates, alkylated and nonalkylated triaryl phosphates, alkylated and nonalkylated triaryl thiophosphates, zinc or molybdenum or tungsten dialkyldithiophosphates, carbamates, thiocarbamates, zinc or molybdenum or tungsten dithiocarbamates, dimercaptothiadiazole, calcium sulfonates, and benzotrizole derivatives, which are used individually or in combination. For example, the wear inhibitor may be at least one of antimony, lead and zinc diorganophosphorodithioates, phosphorus-sulfide treated olefins, sulfurized olefins, alkylphenate sulfides and disulfides, tricresyl phosphate, chlorinated paraffin waxes, sulfurized glyceryl trioleate, antimony, lead and zinc diamyldithiocarbamate, or a combination thereof.

The antioxidant may be at least one antioxidant selected from the group consisting of aromatic aminic antioxidants, such as alkylated phenyl-alpha-naphthylamine, dialkyl-diphenylamine, aralkylated diphenylamine, sterically hindered phenols, such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), phenolic antioxidants having thioether groups, zinc or molybdenum or tungsten dialkyldithiophosphates, and phosphites, or an antioxidant comprising sulfer, nitrogen, and/or phosphorus. For example, the antioxidant may be at least one of phenyl-alpha-napthylamine, 2,2,4-trimethyldihydroquinoline oligomer, bis (alkylphenyl) amine, phenothiazine, N,N-diphenyl-phenylenediamine, or a combination thereof.

The corrosion inhibitor may be selected from the group consisting of additives based on overbased Ca sulfonates having a TBN of 100 to 300 mg KOH/g, amine-neutralized phosphates, alkylated Ca naphthalene-sulfonates, oxazoline derivatives, imidazole derivatives, succinic monoesters, N-alkylated benzotriazoles, which are used individually or in combination. For examples, the corrosion inhibitor may be at least one of mercaptobenzothiazole, barium dinonylnaphthalene sulfonate, glycerol monooleate, sodium nitrite, imidazolines of tetraethylenepentamine, or a combination thereof.

Method of Preparing Compositions of the Present Disclosure

In a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of preparing the lithium complex grease of the present disclosure. The method comprises mixing a lithium complex thickener, a friction modifier, a polymer or copolymer, and at least one synthetic base oil having alkylated naphthalene.

In some embodiments, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: about 3% to about 30% of the lithium complex thickener; about 0.75% to about 10% of the friction modifier; about 0.25% to about 7% of the polymer or copolymer; about 10.0% to about 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; at least 13.0% to about 76% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In other embodiments, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: about 6% to about 20% of the lithium complex thickener; about 1.0% to about 6% of the friction modifier; about 0.5% to about 4% of the polymer or copolymer; about 10.0% to about 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; about 30.0% to about 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In other embodiments, the lithium complex grease has a median failure rate with a ball bearing test performed at 160° C. of no less than 100 hours.

In certain embodiments, the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

In additional embodiments, the lithium complex grease further comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.

This invention of the present disclosure is further illustrated by the following examples which should not be construed as limiting. The data below demonstrates that the maximum operating temperature of the grease of the present disclosure is surprisingly increased relative to convention lithium complex greases. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be practiced with variations on the disclosed structures, materials, compositions and methods, and such variations are regarded as within the ambit of the invention.

EXAMPLES

Methods of the Examples. Greases were tested using the FE9 grease life test method (DIN 51 821) with a heated ball bearing assembly, thereby determining the high-temperature operability. In particular, five ball bearings were individually tested until grease failure was achieved at the targeted (i.e., 160° C. for high-temperature resistivity examination) operability temperature. The statistical average of time to failure (V50) for the fire bearings at the targeted temperature is presented below. A V50 of greater than 100 hours for the tested grease is considered suitable for use at the targeted temperature.

Example 1

Examination of Current Multipurpose Lithium Complex Greases. As shown in Table 1, current multipurpose lithium complex greases are unable to provide acceptable performance (i.e., does not provide a V50 of greater than 100 hours) in the FE9 test at 160° C.

TABLE 1 Table 1. Current Multipurpose Lithium Complex Greases at 160° C. Commercial Mobilith BC/1 BD/1 BJ/1 SHC 460 13- 13- 14- 12-36473 110349 110946 004568 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 0.000 51.448 50.275 51.512 6351.0 PAO-6 CST 20.492 21.340 20.879 21.392 6361.0 PAO-100 CST (MCP 2165) 57.128 0.000 0.000 0.000 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 11.000 14.129 14.025 14.370 STEARATES 1207.5 DIMETHYL ADIPATE/ 2.890 4.239 4.208 4.311 GLUTARATE MIX 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 3.040 4.145 4.114 4.215 MONOHYDRATE, RDG EC-L64 IRGANOX L 64 0.000 2.000 3.000 0.000 2141.0 Durad 150 0.000 1.700 2.500 0.000 EC-8621 LUBRIZOL 8621A 0.000 1.000 1.000 0.000 1885.0 IRGANOX L57 1.750 0.000 0.000 0.000 1374.0 LUBRIZOL 1395 1.700 0.000 0.000 0.000 1990.0 IRGALUBE TPPT 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.200 2233.0 PX 3872 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.200 2234.0 VANLUBE 7723 1.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 2530.0 IRGALUBE 63 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.000 26780- POLY(1,2-DIHYDRO-2,2,3- 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.800 96-1 TRIMETHYL QUINOLINE 4164.0 ZINC NAPHTHENATE 0.750 0.000 0.000 0.000 1523.0 RED DYE, LIQUID 0.150 0.000 0.000 0.000 3058.0 IRGAMET 39 0.100 0.000 0.000 0.000 DIN 51821 FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 36 25 33 33 V50 (Hours)

Example 2

Examination of the Contribution an Individual Component of the Grease of the Present Disclosure has on High-Temperature Resistivity. Table 2 illustrates the contribution that only the friction modifier has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). Table 3 illustrates the contribution that only the alkylated naphthalene has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). Table 4 illustrates the contribution that only the polymer has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). Tables 2-4 demonstrate that each of the components alone (i.e., the friction modifier, the alkylated naphthalene, and the polymer) do not provide any meaningful enhancement in high-temperature resistivity.

TABLE 2 Table 2. Contribution of Friction Modifier BF/1 BG/1 BH/1 BZ/1 CD/1 13-116720 13-116771 13-116869 14-011648 14-012332 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 50.537 50.376 50.537 50.544 51.082 6351.0 PAO - 6 CST 20.955 20.888 20.955 20.990 21.214 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 13.875 13.830 13.875 14.100 14.250 STEARATES 1207.5 DIMETHYL 4.163 4.149 4.163 4.230 4.275 ADIPATE/GLUTARATE MIX 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 4.070 4.057 4.070 4.136 4.180 MONOHYDRATE, RDG EC-L64 IRGANOX L 64 2.000 2.000 2.000 0.000 0.000 EC-ELCO108 ELCO108 1.700 1.700 1.700 0.000 0.000 799.0 VANLUBE 81 0.000 0.000 0.000 2.000 2.000 EC-8621 LUBRIZOL 8621A 1.000 1.000 1.000 0.000 0.000 1063.5 VANLUBE AZ 0.000 1.000 0.000 0.000 1.000 1990.0 IRGALUBE TPPT 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.000 0.000 2530.0 IRGALUBE 63 0.000 0.000 0.000 1.000 0.000 2926.0 MOLYVAN 822 0.000 1.000 1.700 2.000 0.000 1082.0 MOLYVAN L 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 2.000 4177.0 MOLYVAN A 1.700 0.000 0.000 0.000 0.000 DIN 51821 FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 68 39 42 44 49 V50 (Hours)

TABLE 3 Table 3. Contribution of Alkylated Naphthalene GD/1 14-087483 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 49.820 6376.0 MCP 2484 (SYNNESTIC 12) 15.000 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 12.400 STEARATES 6351.0 PAO-6 CST 10.990 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 3.300 MONOHYDRATE, RDG 1207.5 DIMETHYL ADIPATE/ 3.190 GLUTARATE MIX 1885.0 IRGANOX L57 1.750 1374.0 LUBRIZOL 1395 1.700 10563.0 OCTOPOL MB 1.000 4164.0 Zinc Naphthenate 0.750 3058.0 IRGAMET 39 0.100 DIN FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 35 51821 V50 (Hours)

TABLE 4 Table 4. Contribution of the Polymer DL/1 14-041673 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 52.361 6351.0 PAO-6 CST 21.944 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 14.475 STEARATES 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 3.957 MONOHYDRATE, RDG 1207.5 DIMETHYL ADIPATE/ 3.764 GLUTARATE MIX 1283.5 IRGANOX L 06 2.000 1990.0 IRGALUBE TPPT 1.000 815449- ETHYLENE/PROPYLENE 0.500 00 COPOLYMER DIN FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 35 51821 V50 (Hours)

Example 3

Examination of the Contribution Two Component of the Grease of the Present Disclosure has on High-Temperature Resistivity. Table 5 illustrates the contribution that the combination of the friction modifier and the alkylated naphthalene has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). Table 6 illustrates the contribution that the combination of the polymer and the alkylated naphthalene has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). Table 7 illustrates the contribution that the combination of the polymer and the friction modifier has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). While the combination of the polymer and the friction modifier shows some increased high-temperature resistivity, the combination consistently fails to meet the 100 hour requirement to demonstrate high-temperature resistivity. The other combinations (friction modifier plus alkylated naphthalene, and the polymer plus alkylated naphthalene) do not provide any meaningful enhanced high-temperature resistivity.

TABLE 5 Table 5. Contribution of the Combination of the Friction Modifier and Alkylated Naphthalene HC/1 14-110787 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 43.000 6351.0 PAO-6 CST 18.093 6376.0 MCP 2484 (SYNNESTIC 12) 15.000 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 11.027 STEARATES 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 3.014 MONOHYDRATE, RDG 1207.5 DIMETHYL ADIPATE/ 2.867 GLUTARATE MIX 799.0 VANLUBE 81 2.000 1063.5 VANLUBE AZ 1.000 1990.0 IRGALUBE TPPT 1.000 2530.0 IRGALUBE 63 1.000 70162.0 ADEKA SAKURALUBE 525 2.000 DIN FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 68 51821 V50 (Hours)

TABLE 6 Table 6. Contribution of the Combination of the Polymer and Alkylated Naphthalene HD/1 14-110786 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 42.151 6351.0 PAO-6 CST 20.670 6376.0 MCP 2484 (SYNNESTIC 12) 15.000 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 10.865 STEARATES 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 2.969 MONOHYDRATE, RDG 1207.5 DIMETHYL ADIPATE/ 2.825 GLUTARATE MIX 799.0 VANLUBE 81 2.020 1063.5 VANLUBE AZ 1.000 1990.0 IRGALUBE TPPT 1.000 2530.0 IRGALUBE 63 1.000 815449- ETHYLENE/PROPYLENE 0.500 00 COPOLYMER DIN FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 41 51821 V50 (Hours)

TABLE 7 Table 7. Contribution of the Combination of the Polymer and the Friction Modifier DJ/1 DK/1 DY/1 14- 14- 14- 040563 041165 053848 7171.0 MCP 2619-MCP 2743 48.970 50.733 50.191 6351.0 PAO-6 CST 20.530 21.262 21.035 1202.0 METHYL 12-HYDROXY 15.000 14.025 13.875 STEARATES 3156.0 LITHIUM HYDROXIDE, 4.100 3.834 3.793 MONOHYDRATE, RDG 1207.5 DIMETHYL ADIPATE/ 3.900 3.647 3.608 GLUTARATE MIX 1283.5 IRGANOX L 06 2.000 2.000 0.000 1063.5 VANLUBE AZ 1.000 1.000 1.000 1990.0 IRGALUBE TPPT 1.000 1.000 1.000 799.0 VANLUBE 81 0.000 0.000 2.000 2530.0 IRGALUBE 63 1.000 0.000 1.000 2926.0 MOLYVAN 822 0.000 2.000 0.000 1082.0 MOLYVAN L 2.000 0.000 0.000 70162.0 ADEKA SAKURALUBE 525 0.000 0.000 2.000 815449- ETHYLENE/PROPYLENE 0.500 0.500 0.500 00 COPOLYMER DIN FE9 (A/1.5/6000-160) 89 66 92 51821 V50 (Hours)

Example 4

Examination of the Contribution of the Polymer, Friction Modifier, and Alkylated Naphthalene has on High-Temperature Resistivity. Table 8 (FIG. 1) illustrates the contribution that the combination of the friction modifier, the polymer and the alkylated naphthalene has on the high-temperature resistivity (V50). Table 8 demonstrates that the combination of the friction modifier, the polymer, and the alkylated naphthalene synergistically enhanced the high-temperature resistivity of the grease of the present disclosure by consistently having a V50 greater than 100 hours at 160° C.

Example 5

Examination of Base Line References. Table 9 (FIG. 2) illustrates numerous base line lithium complex grease formulations as comparative examples, wherein the B50 is the statistical average time in hours to failure (determined by the FE9 grease life test method (DIN 51 821) with a heated ball bearing assembly, as described above) for the listed comparative examples. As shown in Table 9, each of the comparative examples has poor temperature resistivity.

Example 6

Examination of Molybdenum-Containing Friction Modifiers. Table 10 (FIG. 3) illustrates the effect of varying types and amounts of molybdenum-containing friction modifiers. As shown in Table 10, use of molybdenum-containing friction modifiers was only effective as increasing high temperature resistivity without the polymer and the alkylated naphthalene when used as substantially higher amounts.

Example 7

Examination of Co-thickener or Alkylated Naphthalene Alone. Table 11 (FIG. 4) illustrates that substantial increases in alkylated naphthalene in the lithium complex grease without the friction modifier and polymer does not effectively result in high temperature resistivity.

Example 8

Examination of Combinations of Alkylated Naphthalene, Co-thickeners, Molybdenum Friction Modifiers, and Polymers. Table 12 (FIG. 5) examines numerous combinations of alkylated naphthalene, co-thickeners, molybdenum friction modifiers and polymers.

Specific Embodiments

According to an aspect, the present disclosure provides a lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity, the lithium complex grease comprising: a lithium complex thickener; a friction modifier; a polymer or copolymer; and at least one synthetic base oil having alkylated naphthalene.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the friction modifier is at least one of a molybdenum (Mo) friction modifier, molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC), molybdenum dithiophosphate (MoDTP), MOLYVAN® 822, MOLYVAN® 855, MOLYVAN® L, MOLYVAN® 807, MOLYVAN® A, MOLYVAN® 2000, ADEKA SAKURA LUBE 525, MOLYVAN® 3000, or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the polymer or copolymer comprises at least one of ethylene, propylene, an ethylene-propylene co-polymer, or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the polymer or copolymer is Vi stamaxx™ 6202.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the at least one synthetic base oil includes at least one of an alkylated naphthalene base oil, a polyalphaolefin (PAO) base oil, alkylated naphthalene in PAO base oil, or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the alkylated naphthalene base oil is at least one of Synesstic™ 5, Synesstic™ 12, or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the PAO base oil is at least one of SpectraSyn™ 2, SpectraSyn™ 2B, SpectraSyn™ 2C, SpectraSyn™ 4, SpectraSyn™ 5, SpectraSyn™ 6, SpectraSyn™ 8, SpectraSyn™ 10, SpectraSyn™ 40, SpectraSyn™ 100, Syncon® Barrier Oil, or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 3% to 30% of the lithium complex thickener; 0.75% to 10% of the friction modifier; 0.25% to 7% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; 13.0% to 76% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 6% to 20% of the lithium complex thickener; 1.0% to 6% of the friction modifier; 0.5% to 4% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; 30.0% to 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, wherein the lithium complex grease further comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.

According to a further aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of preparing a lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity, the method comprising mixing a lithium complex thickener, a friction modifier, a polymer or copolymer, and at least one synthetic base oil with alkylated naphthalene.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 3% to 30% of the lithium complex thickener; 0.75% to 10% of the friction modifier; 0.25% to 7% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; at least 13.0% to 76% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following: 6% to 20% of the lithium complex thickener; 1.0% to 6% of the friction modifier; 0.5% to 4% of the polymer or copolymer; 10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil; 30.0% to 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or a combination thereof.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease has a median failure rate with a ball bearing test performed at 160° C. of no less than 100 hours.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

In any aspect or embodiment described herein, the lithium complex grease further comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.

Equivalents

Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments and methods described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the scope of the following claims.

It is understood that the detailed examples and embodiments described herein are given by way of example for illustrative purposes only, and are in no way considered to be limiting to the invention. Various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are included within the spirit and purview of this application and are considered within the scope of the appended claims. For example, the relative quantities of the ingredients may be varied to optimize the desired effects, additional ingredients may be added, and/or similar ingredients may be substituted for one or more of the ingredients described. Additional advantageous features and functionalities associated with the systems, methods, and processes of the present invention will be apparent from the appended claims. Moreover, those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the invention described herein. Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the following claims.

Claims

1. A lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity, the lithium complex grease comprising:

a lithium complex thickener;

a friction modifier;

a polymer or copolymer; and

at least one synthetic base oil having alkylated naphthalene.

2. The lithium complex grease of claim 1, wherein the friction modifier is at least one of a molybdenum (Mo) friction modifier, molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC), molybdenum dithiophosphate (MoDTP), MOLYVAN® 822, MOLYVAN® 855, MOLYVAN® L, MOLYVAN® 807, MOLYVAN® A, MOLYVAN® 2000, ADEKA SAKURA LUBE 525, MOLYVAN® 3000, or a combination thereof.

3. The lithium complex grease of claim 1, wherein the polymer or copolymer comprises at least one of ethylene, propylene, an ethylene-propylene co-polymer, or a combination thereof.

4. The lithium complex grease of claim 3, wherein the polymer or copolymer is Vistamaxx™ 6202.

5. The lithium complex grease of claim 1, wherein the at least one synthetic base oil includes at least one of an alkylated naphthalene base oil, a polyalphaolefin (PAO) base oil, alkylated naphthalene in PAO base oil, or a combination thereof.

6. The lithium complex grease of claim 5, wherein the alkylated naphthalene base oil is at least one of Synesstic™ 5, Synesstic™ 12, or a combination thereof.

7. The lithium complex grease of claim 5, wherein the PAO base oil is at least one of SpectraSyn™ 2, SpectraSyn™ 2B, SpectraSyn™ 2C, SpectraSyn™ 4, SpectraSyn™ 5, SpectraSyn™ 6, SpectraSyn™ 8, SpectraSyn™ 10, SpectraSyn™ 40, SpectraSyn™ 100, Syncon® Barrier Oil, or a combination thereof.

8. The lithium complex grease of claim 1, wherein the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following:

3% to 30% of the lithium complex thickener;

0.75% to 10% of the friction modifier;

0.25% to 7% of the polymer or copolymer;

10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil;

13.0% to 76% of the PAO base oil; or

a combination thereof.

9. The lithium complex grease of claim 8, wherein the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following:

6% to 20% of the lithium complex thickener;

1.0% to 6% of the friction modifier;

0.5% to 4% of the polymer or copolymer;

10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil;

30.0% to 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or

a combination thereof.

10. The lithium complex grease of claim 1, wherein the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

11. The lithium complex grease of claim 1, further comprising at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.

12. A method of preparing a lithium complex grease with high-temperature resistivity, the method comprising mixing a lithium complex thickener, a friction modifier, a polymer or copolymer, and at least one synthetic base oil with alkylated naphthalene.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following:

3% to 30% of the lithium complex thickener;

0.75% to 10% of the friction modifier;

0.25% to 7% of the polymer or copolymer;

10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil;

at least 13.0% to 76% of the PAO base oil; or

a combination thereof.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the lithium complex grease has at least one of the following:

6% to 20% of the lithium complex thickener;

1.0% to 6% of the friction modifier;

0.5% to 4% of the polymer or copolymer;

10.0% to 40% of the alkylated naphthalene base oil;

30.0% to 82.5% of the PAO base oil; or

a combination thereof.

15. The method of claim 12, wherein the lithium complex grease has a median failure rate with a ball bearing test performed at 160° C. of no less than 100 hours.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein the lithium complex grease is substantially free of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyester (POE) base oil, or substantially free of PTFE and POE base oil.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the lithium complex grease further comprises at least one additive selected from the group consisting of an emulsifier, a co-thickener, a corrosion inhibitor, an antioxidant, a wear inhibitor, a tackiness agent, a colorant, an odor control agent, a filler, or a combination thereof.