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2025-02-05

Metal Deactivators: The "Invisible Guardians" in Lubricants and Fuel Oils

The primary function of metal deactivators is to reduce the activity of metal ions, particularly copper ions, thereby indirectly enhancing the oxidation resistance of oils and extending their service life. Today, we will explore the mechanism of action of metal deactivators, their applications in lubricants and fuel oils, and introduce several high-efficiency metal deactivator products developed by our company.

Mechanism of Action of Metal Deactivators

The core function of metal deactivators is to chemically reduce the activity of metal ions, particularly copper ions. Copper ions have a strong catalytic oxidation effect in oils, accelerating oil aging. By adding metal deactivators, the activity of copper ions can be effectively suppressed, slowing down the oxidation process and enhancing the oxidation resistance of oils.

The mechanism of metal deactivators can be likened to an "inactivated vaccine," where the deactivation of metal ions renders them incapable of catalyzing oxidation. Unlike traditional phenolic and amine antioxidants, metal deactivators work indirectly, allowing them to function synergistically with antioxidants to further improve oxidation resistance.

Applications of Metal Deactivators

Metal deactivators are widely used in fuel oils and lubricants. In fuel oils, metal deactivators primarily inhibit the negative effects of metal ions on catalysts, extending fuel storage life. In lubricants, they suppress the catalytic oxidation effects of copper ions, enhancing oxidation stability.

With advancements in base oil refining technology, lubricants and fuel oils now have higher requirements for metal deactivators. Traditional benzotriazole-based deactivators (such as T551) are showing limitations in modern highly refined base oils. Next-generation methylbenzotriazole derivatives (such as TTA) are becoming the mainstream in the metal deactivator market due to their superior oil solubility, high-temperature stability, and low alkalinity characteristics.

Our company keeps pace with industry trends by offering a range of high-performance metal deactivators to meet diverse application needs.

Our Metal Deactivator Products

To cater to various applications, our company has developed a variety of high-efficiency metal deactivators, covering both water-soluble and oil-soluble types for use in lubricants, fuel oils, and metalworking fluids.

1. Aquacor™ Rz-W42

A water-soluble metal deactivator designed for water-based lubricants and metalworking fluids. Aquacor™ Rz-W42 offers excellent copper corrosion inhibition, significantly extending the lifespan of water-based products.

2. Petrocor™ Rz-O30

An oil-soluble metal deactivator for industrial lubricants and hydraulic oils. Petrocor™ Rz-O30 provides outstanding oxidation resistance, significantly improving the oxidation stability of oils.

3. Petrocor™ Rz-O39

Another oil-soluble metal deactivator designed for high-temperature lubricant applications. Petrocor™ Rz-O39 maintains stable performance at elevated temperatures and effectively suppresses the catalytic oxidation effects of metal ions.

4. Petrocor™ T561

A high-performance benzotriazole derivative metal deactivator suitable for various industrial lubricants. Petrocor™ T561 has excellent solubility and oxidation resistance, working synergistically with phenolic antioxidants to further enhance oxidation stability.

5. Petrocor™ S826

A metal deactivator featuring low alkalinity and high stability. Petrocor™ S826 is compatible with additives such as ZDDP and MoDTC, making it ideal for modern high-performance engine oils.

6. Petrocor™ T591

A next-generation methylbenzotriazole derivative metal deactivator designed for highly refined base oils and PAO synthetic oils. Petrocor™ T591 offers superior oil solubility and high-temperature stability, effectively suppressing copper ion catalytic oxidation and improving oxidation resistance.


As the "invisible guardians" in lubricants and fuel oils, metal deactivators play a crucial role despite their small dosage. Choosing the right metal deactivator can significantly enhance the oxidation stability of oils and extend their service life. Our Aquacor™ and Petrocor™ series of metal deactivators provide comprehensive solutions to optimize oil performance.

If you have any inquiries or specific needs regarding metal deactivators, feel free to contact us. Our team is dedicated to offering professional technical support and product services.


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