Mitsubishi Chemical Corp. said it has begun designing a pilot factory that will use materials from plants to make what it calls sustainable methyl methacrylates – compounds that are used to make viscosity modifiers for lubricants, among other applications. The company plans to open the facility next year and then to build a commercial-scale plant by 2026.

An innovative new engine oil made from 100% plant-based base oil is proof that a sustainable solution shouldn’t have to compromise on performance. South Korea’s leading lubricant brand, Kixx, is proud to announce the global launch of Kixx BIO1 0W-20 fully synthetic engine oil, a robust eco-friendly formulation that combines the fuel economy with outstanding engine protection and wear prevention.

South Korea’s base oil exports were virtually flat in January, compared to the same month last year, according to data released by the Korea Customs Service. January’s total was the lowest volume of base oil exported since August 2021. The value of January exports, however, jumped 41% year to year.

A new nation is king of the hill in terms of base oil capacity, after China surpassed the United States in 2021 following a decade-long surge in investment. Two more expansions and an operational change at a third plant last year brought annual nameplate capacity in China to 14 million metric tons, slightly ahead of the United States, according to Lubes’n’Greases’ Base Stock Plant Data.

State-owned Thai Oil Group’s base oil business reported increased net profit and sales for the fourth quarter and the full year of 2021, with sales enjoying a lift from higher volume and prices. Profits for the quarter rose 17% year to year, while the annual results improved more than 300%.