⚗️ Overview: What Is PMA Viscosity Index Improver?
PMA Viscosity Index Improver (CAS No. 25133-85-1), chemically known as Polymethacrylate (PMA), is a high-performance polymer-based lubricant additive that significantly elevates the viscosity index (VI) of lubricating oils. It ensures consistent, stable lubrication performance across a wide temperature range - from sub-zero cold starts to extreme high-temperature engine operation - making it the additive of choice for modern multi-grade and energy-efficient lubricant formulations.
What sets PMA apart from other viscosity index improvers (such as OCP or HSD) is its unique temperature-responsive coil-uncoil mechanism. At low temperatures, PMA polymer chains contract, minimizing viscosity increase for easier cold cranking. At high temperatures, they expand, thickening the oil to maintain a robust protective film on metal surfaces. This behavior is more precise and controllable than that of conventional polymers, giving lubricant formulators superior command over finished oil viscometrics.
💡 Sinolook is a professional China chemical export company with established partnerships with leading PMA manufacturers. We supply both non-dispersant and dispersant-type PMA grades to global buyers across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific - with competitive pricing, flexible MOQ, and full technical documentation.
PMA Viscosity Modifier (CAS 25133-85-1) - Molecular Structure & Engine Oil Application
💡 PMA vs. Other Viscosity Index Improvers
Understanding where PMA excels helps lubricant formulators make the right additive selection for their target application.
| Property | PMA | OCP | HSD / SBR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Viscosity Index Boost | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Low-Temperature Performance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Shear Stability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Dispersant Functionality | ✅ (D-PMA type) | ✅ (D-OCP type) | ❌ |
| ATF / CVTF Suitability | Excellent | Moderate | Limited |
| Pour Point Depression | Yes (inherent) | No | No |
✅ PMA is the only VII that simultaneously improves viscosity index and depresses pour point - a dual-function advantage that reduces the need for a separate pour point depressant additive.
🔬 Technical Specifications
Standard parameters provided by Sinolook's verified China manufacturing partners. Custom molecular weights and SSI grades are available for specific applications.
| Parameter | Standard Value | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Pale yellow to transparent viscous liquid | Free of visible impurities or sediment |
| Molecular Weight | 50,000 – 500,000 g/mol | Adjustable to match thickening requirements |
| Viscosity at 100°C | 100 – 2,000 mm²/s | Determines thickening efficiency in base oil |
| Shear Stability Index (SSI) | ≤ 25% (ND-type) / ≤ 30% (D-type) | Key indicator of viscosity retention under shear |
| Pour Point | ≤ -20°C | Good low-temperature fluidity for easy blending |
| Flash Point (COC) | ≥ 180°C | Critical safety parameter for storage & transport |
| Volatility (Noack, 250°C/1h) | ≤ 15% | Minimizes oil consumption at high temperatures |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (sealed, cool & dry storage) | Stable long-term quality assurance |
✅ All specifications comply with international lubricant additive standards. CoA, SDS/MSDS, and third-party test reports available upon request.
🏭 Key Application Fields
🚗 1. Multi-Grade Engine Oils - Fuel Efficiency & Cold-Start Protection
PMA Viscosity Index Improver is the additive of choice for formulating 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-40, and 0W-20 multi-grade engine oils. Its temperature-responsive polymer behavior delivers two critical benefits simultaneously: at low temperatures, contracted PMA chains minimize oil viscosity increase - enabling faster cold-start oil flow, reduced cranking energy, and lower fuel consumption. At high temperatures, expanded chains maintain a thick, robust lubricating film around pistons, crankshafts, and bearings, preventing metal-to-metal contact and extending engine life.
Dispersant-type PMA (D-PMA) also incorporates polar functional groups that keep soot, varnish, and sludge particles dispersed in the oil - reducing engine deposits and supporting extended drain interval (EDI) formulations compliant with API SP, ACEA C5, and other modern engine oil specifications.
⚙️ 2. Industrial Lubricants - Gear Oils, Hydraulic Fluids & Turbine Oils
Industrial equipment - gearboxes, hydraulic systems, compressors, and turbines - operates across wide temperature swings and under severe mechanical stress. PMA Viscosity Index Improver enhances the viscosity index, shear stability, and thermal stability of industrial gear oils and hydraulic fluids, ensuring consistent viscosity and reliable lubrication from cold start-up to full operating temperature.
In hydraulic fluids, stable viscosity translates directly into precise actuator response, energy efficiency, and reduced system heat generation. In industrial gear oils, PMA improves load-carrying performance and protects gear flanks under boundary lubrication conditions. China manufacturers offer high-SSI-stability grades specifically engineered for high-pressure hydraulic systems and heavy-duty industrial gearboxes.
🔄 3. Transmission Fluids - ATF, CVTF & DCTF
Automatic transmission fluids (ATF), continuously variable transmission fluids (CVTF), and dual-clutch transmission fluids (DCTF) require exceptional viscosity stability, friction control, and shear resistance to ensure smooth gear engagement, anti-shudder performance, and long drain life. PMA Viscosity Index Improver is uniquely suited for these applications due to its precise molecular weight control and compatibility with friction modifier packages.
China suppliers offer PMA grades with tailored molecular weights and SSI profiles specifically designed for OEM transmission fluid specifications (e.g., GM DEXRON, Toyota WS, ZF LifeGuard). These grades work synergistically with friction modifiers and anti-wear additives to deliver the anti-shudder durability and extended drain intervals demanded by modern automatic transmissions.
📦 Storage & Handling Guidelines
🏪 Storage Conditions
- Cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse; away from direct sunlight, heat sources & open flames
- Recommended storage temperature: 5°C – 30°C; avoid prolonged exposure above 40°C (may cause polymer degradation)
- Use sealed HDPE drums or metal drums; tighten caps after each use to prevent moisture & contamination
- Keep separate from strong oxidants, acids, alkalis & incompatible chemicals
- Maximum stacking: 3 layers to prevent drum deformation and leakage
⚠️ Handling Precautions
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles & protective clothing at all times
- Avoid impact, dropping, or compression of drums to prevent leakage
- Use dedicated blending equipment; ensure thorough mixing with base oil to avoid localized high concentrations
- Spills: collect with inert absorbents (sand or activated carbon); dispose per local environmental regulations - do not discharge into drains or soil
- Skin/eye contact: rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
🌐 How to Choose a Reliable China PMA Supplier
Selecting the right PMA Viscosity Index Improver supplier directly impacts your finished lubricant's performance consistency, formulation cost, and market competitiveness. Evaluate potential partners across these five dimensions:
Advanced polymerization reactors and precise molecular weight distribution control are essential for consistent SSI and thickening efficiency batch-to-batch.
Verify ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and IATF 16949 (automotive supply chain) certifications to confirm the manufacturer meets global quality and environmental standards.
A supplier offering multiple molecular weight grades and both ND-PMA and D-PMA types gives you flexibility to optimize formulations across engine oil, industrial, and transmission fluid applications.
Prioritize suppliers with dedicated application engineers who can assist with treat rate optimization, compatibility testing, and compliance with target API/ACEA/OEM specs.
China's polymer production advantages translate into significant cost savings. Confirm adequate safety stock and production capacity before committing to long-term supply agreements.
Volume pricing tiers typically activate at 1MT, 5MT, and 20MT+ levels. Establishing a long-term supply framework agreement with annual volume commitments unlocks the best unit economics, priority allocation during raw material tightness, and access to new grade development. Always benchmark treat rate efficiency (not just unit price) - a higher-performance PMA may require lower treat rates, delivering superior total formulation cost per liter of finished lubricant.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the CAS number for PMA Viscosity Index Improver?
The CAS number is 25133-85-1 for Polymethacrylate (PMA). Different molecular weight grades and dispersant / non-dispersant variants may carry different product designations - please specify your target application (engine oil, ATF, hydraulic fluid, etc.) when requesting a quote so we can recommend the most suitable grade.
Q2: What is the difference between non-dispersant PMA (ND-PMA) and dispersant PMA (D-PMA)?
ND-PMA provides pure viscosity modification (VI improvement + pour point depression) and is typically used in industrial lubricants and base engine oil packages where dispersancy is handled by a separate ashless dispersant. D-PMA incorporates nitrogen-containing polar groups that actively disperse soot and oxidation by-products, making it ideal for modern low-SAPS engine oils and extended drain interval formulations where reducing total additive treat rate is a priority.
Q3: Can PMA also act as a pour point depressant (PPD)?
Yes - this is one of PMA's key advantages over other VII polymers such as OCP. PMA inherently depresses the pour point of finished lubricants by interfering with wax crystal growth at low temperatures. In many formulations, the use of PMA reduces or eliminates the need for a separate PPD additive, simplifying the additive package and lowering total formulation cost.
Q4: What is a typical treat rate for PMA Viscosity Index Improver in engine oil?
Treat rates vary by grade and target viscosity grade. Typical ranges are 3%–12% w/w for engine oils, 1%–5% for ATF/CVTF, and 0.5%–3% for some industrial applications. Higher molecular weight grades require lower treat rates for equivalent VI boost, which can offset their higher unit price. Our technical team can run formulation modeling to optimize treat rate for your specific base oil and target viscometrics.
Q5: What documentation is available for import and quality verification?
Sinolook provides a complete documentation package with every shipment: Certificate of Analysis (CoA), Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS), commercial invoice, packing list, Bill of Lading, and Certificate of Origin. Third-party inspection reports (SGS, Intertek, BV) and REACH compliance documentation are available upon request.
📩 Contact Sinolook – Your Trusted Partner for PMA Viscosity Index Improver (CAS 25133-85-1)
Sinolook is a professional chemical export company connecting global buyers with China's leading lubricant additive manufacturers. Our PMA Viscosity Index Improver (CAS 25133-85-1) products meet rigorous international quality standards and are trusted by industrial clients across Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. We offer complete one-stop procurement support: product selection, technical consultation, quality inspection, customs documentation, and international logistics.
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