MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate: Premium Friction Modifier Solutions in Liquid and Powder Forms
MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate: Premium Friction Modifier Solutions in Liquid and Powder Forms
In the industrial world, where efficiency, equipment longevity, and sustainability are paramount, friction and wear are pervasive challenges. Whether in automotive engines, high-speed industrial gears, or complex mechanical systems, the need to combat friction is ever-present. MoDTC (Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate), with its exceptional friction-reducing and anti-wear properties, has become an indispensable additive in high-performance lubricants and greases. The parallel development of liquid and powder forms of MoDTC provides engineers and formulators with flexible, high-performance solutions tailored to demanding applications. This article delves into the unique advantages and extensive applications of Liquid MoDTC and Powder MoDTC.
What is MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate
MoDTC is a highly effective organomolybdenum compound with a molecular structure centered around molybdenum (Mo), surrounded by dithiocarbamate functional groups and long alkyl chains. This unique structure is the foundation of its superior performance.
Introduction to the Working Principle of MoDTC:
• Adsorption & Friction Film Formation: MoDTC molecules strongly adsorb onto metal friction surfaces (e.g., cylinder liner-piston rings, cam-tappets, gear teeth).
• Tribochemical Reaction: Under high pressure and temperature at contact points, MoDTC undergoes tribochemical reactions, releasing active components.
• Nano-Protective Layer Formation: The reaction generates an ultra-smooth, robust molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) nanosheet layer on the metal surface. MoS₂ has a layered hexagonal crystal structure with weak interlayer bonding and extremely low shear strength, acting like countless "molecular ball bearings."
• Significant Friction Reduction: This MoS₂ nanofilm converts sliding friction into low-resistance interlayer shear, drastically reducing the coefficient of friction (typically by 20–60% or more) in boundary and mixed lubrication regimes—key to improving fuel/energy efficiency.
• Superior Anti-Wear Protection: The film also acts as a physical barrier, preventing metal-to-metal contact, reducing adhesive wear, scuffing, and micro-pitting, thereby extending equipment life.
Key Benefits of MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate:
• Exceptional friction reduction – One of the most effective organic friction modifiers in the industry.
• Outstanding anti-wear and extreme pressure (EP) performance – Protects components under severe conditions.
• Enhanced high-temperature stability – Remains effective in engine hot spots.
• Extended oil drain intervals & equipment life – Reduced wear means longer-lasting oils and components.
• Excellent compatibility & synergy – Works well with ZDDP, detergents, dispersants, and antioxidants.
• Potential antioxidant contribution – Molybdenum compounds also exhibit some oxidation inhibition.
Liquid MoDTC – Instant Integration, the Go-To Friction Reducer
Form & Characteristics:
Liquid MoDTC is typically a concentrated solution in base oil or organic solvents (e.g., mineral oil, synthetic oil, alkylbenzene). It appears as a dark amber to dark brown transparent liquid.
Key Advantages of Liquid MoDTC:
• Superior solubility & miscibility – Easily and uniformly dissolves in most base oils (mineral, PAO, esters) and finished lubricants/greases without precipitation.
• Ease of use – Direct metering into blending tanks, no specialized equipment required.
• Formulation flexibility – Easy dosage adjustment for optimization.
• Good low-temperature flow – Pumpable and measurable in cold environments.
• Field replenishment capability – Can be added directly to industrial lubricating systems during maintenance.
Typical Applications of Liquid MoDTC:
• Engine oils – Gasoline, hybrid, and extended-range specialty oils.
• Transmission fluids (ATF, CVTF) – Enhances shift smoothness and efficiency.
• Industrial lubricants – Hydraulic fluids, gear oils (industrial/automotive), compressor oils, circulating oils.
• Greases – Imparts friction-reducing and anti-wear properties.
• Metalworking fluids – Used in cutting/forming fluids requiring friction reduction.
Powder MoDTC – High-Concentration Solid, the "Energy Core" for Specialized Applications
Form & Characteristics of powder MoDTC:
Powder MoDTC is a purified solid crystal or fine powder, typically yellow, yellow-green, or yellow-brown. It has a much higher molybdenum content (often ≥10% Mo) than liquid forms, delivering higher active ingredient concentration.
Key Advantages of powder MoDTC:
• High active ingredient content – More active molybdenum per unit mass/volume, ideal for high-dose requirements or solvent-restricted formulations.
• Solvent-free/low VOC – Meets stringent environmental and odor regulations (e.g., food-grade applications).
• Superior storage stability – Less affected by temperature fluctuations or long-term storage.
• Viscosity control – Does not introduce additional base oil/solvent, helping maintain or reduce finished oil viscosity.
Challenges & Considerations of powder MoDTC:
• Dissolution requirements – Needs polar base oils, heating (60–80°C or higher), and vigorous stirring. Incomplete dissolution may cause sedimentation.
• Specialized blending process – Requires heating and high-shear mixing equipment.
• Dust control – Proper handling to ensure operator safety.
Typical Applications of powder MoDTC:
• High-molybdenum specialty lubricants/greases
• VOC-sensitive applications (e.g., indoor machinery, food processing)
• Formulations requiring precise viscosity control
• Solid/semi-solid lubricants
• Raw material for liquid MoDTC or additive packages.
MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate Application Fields
Automotive (Primary Market):
• Passenger car engine oils – Boosts fuel economy, protects turbochargers, VVT systems.
• Hybrid/EV specialty oils – Reduces friction in motor bearings and reducers.
• Transmission fluids (ATF, CVTF, DCTF, MTF) – Minimizes clutch/gear friction, improves durability.
• Differential/axle gear oils – Prevents scuffing and wear.
Industrial (Efficiency & Reliability Cornerstone):
• Industrial gear oils – Reduces friction losses, prevents micropitting (e.g., wind turbine, mining gearboxes).
• Hydraulic fluids – Enhances pump/motor efficiency, reduces heat generation.
• Compressor oils – Protects rotors, improves volumetric efficiency.
• Turbine oils – Provides boundary lubrication during startups/shutdowns.
• Circulating system oils – Lowers energy consumption in bearings/gears.
• Machine tool oils/way oils – Eliminates stick-slip motion, improves machining precision.
Greases:
Enhances anti-wear/friction reduction in wheel bearings, U-joints, industrial bearings, and guideways.
Metalworking Fluids:
Reduces tool-workpiece friction and built-up edge formation in cutting/forming processes.
Best Practices for Selecting & Using MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate:
1. Define Needs: Prioritize friction reduction (energy savings), anti-wear/EP protection, or both. Identify target specifications.
2. Evaluate Form: Choose liquid (ease of use) or powder (high Mo%, low VOC) based on production capabilities.
3. Key Parameters:
Mo% – Primary active content.
S% – Affects total sulfur (relevant for low-SAPS formulations).
P% – Typically minimal (complies with low-phosphorus requirements).
Cl% – Should be <10 ppm to avoid corrosion.
Viscosity/melting point (powder) – Impacts solubility.
4. Solubility/Stability Testing: Verify performance in target base oils/formulations.
5. Dosage: Typical engine oil dosage: 0.5–2.0% liquid MoDTC (200–1000 ppm Mo); adjust powder dosage accordingly. Excessive amounts may reduce cost-effectiveness or cause side effects.
Choosing the optimal MoDTC form for your lubricant/grease formulation means:
Boosting fuel/energy efficiency, cutting operational costs.
Slashing component wear, extending equipment life.
Meeting stringent environmental/performance standards.
Delivering smoother, more reliable, and cost-effective operation.
MoDTC Molybdenum Dialkyldithiocarbamate Friction Modifier manufacturer
Luoyang Pacific United Petrochemical Co., Ltd., (UNPChemicals) based in Luoyang, Henan, China, is a leading lubricant additive manufacturer with a 120+ acre fine chemical production base. As the world's third producer of oil-soluble liquid MoDTC, we specialize in high-performance liquid and powder MoDTC. Contact us for technical data, samples, and expert application support.