What is the Difference Between Mineral and Semi-Synthetic Oil

The main difference between mineral and semi-synthetic oil is that mineral oil is made from crude oil, whereas semi-synthetic oil is a combination of mineral oil and synthetic oil.

Oil is a non-polar liquid that is viscous. It is a hydrocarbon-based fluid that is derived from many sources, including crude oil and plant and animal fats. Oil is essential for many industrial, commercial, and domestic applications. Mineral oil and semi-synthetic oil are two types of oils.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is Mineral Oil
     – Definition, Features, Performance 
2. What is Semi-Synthetic Oil
     – Definition, Features, Performance 
3. Difference Between Mineral and Semi-Synthetic Oil
     – Comparison of Key Differences

Key Terms

Mineral Oil, Semi-Synthetic Oil

What is Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is a liquid that is obtained from refining crude oil. It is a colourless, transparent, oily liquid that is odourless and tasteless. Mineral oil has many industrial applications. It is useful as a lubricant, coolant, insulator, and base ingredient in many personal care products.

The cosmetics industry uses mineral oil for its emollient and moisturizing properties to prevent moisture loss and improve skin texture. Moreover, hair care products use mineral oil to increase hair shine and manageability and as a cost-effective alternative to other natural oils and ingredients. Medical applications of mineral oil include its use as a laxative to relieve constipation and as a lubricant for medical equipment like catheters and enema kits. Furthermore, mineral oil has several health benefits, such as treating eczema, dislodging dandruff, removing ear wax, and softening dry skin. Additionally, mineral oil serves as a binding agent and dust-prevention measure in yeast production and is applied on grains like rice, oats, and barley while also keeping sweets from sticking together and being utilized in some types of gummy candies like Swedish fish.

What is Semi-Synthetic Oil

Semi-synthetic oil or part synthetic oil is a mixture of mineral and synthetic oil. In comparison to mineral oil, semi-synthetic oil exhibits a relatively higher level of performance. This is due to the blend of properties of both types of oil. The mineral oil in semi-synthetic oil comes from crude oil. Synthetic oil is made from chemically modified petroleum components or completely synthetic compounds. It has a good performance, especially in high temperatures. It also resists thermal breakdown, oxidation, and evaporation.

The semi-synthetic oil has both the properties of mineral oil and synthetic oil. It has a higher percentage of synthetic oil than mineral oil. Due to these percentages, the oil becomes more stable and durable. This nature of semi-synthetic oil provides better engine protection and performance. Semi-synthetic oil also extends the life of the engine by helping to reduce engine wear. Meanwhile, the synthetic part of the oil provides better protection against deposits and sludge.

At high temperatures, semi-synthetic oil shows higher performance. It provides better protection in both hot and cold environments, making it suitable for engines that are subject to a wide range of temperatures.

In terms of fuel economy, semi-synthetic oil performs better than mineral oil. This is due to the synthetic component of the oil reducing friction. Moreover, semi-synthetic oil is more environmentally friendly than mineral oil. One disadvantage of semi-synthetic oil is that it is more expensive than conventional mineral oil.

Difference Between Mineral and Semi-Synthetic Oil

Definition

Mineral oil is an oil made from crude oil, whereas semi-synthetic oil is a combination of mineral oil and synthetic oil.

Performance

Semi-synthetic oil has a better engine performance than mineral oil alone.

Cost

Semi-synthetic oil is generally more expensive than mineral oil.

Environmental Impact

Furthermore, semi-synthetic oil is more environmentally friendly than mineral oil.

Conclusion

Oil is a hydrocarbon-based non-polar solvent that its applications in many industries. Mineral oil and semi-synthetic oil are two types of oil. The main difference between mineral and semi-synthetic oil is that mineral oil is made from crude oil, whereas semi-synthetic oil is a combination of mineral oil and synthetic oil.

Reference:

1. “The Health Benefits of Mineral Oil.” Very Well Health.
2. “Should You Choose Semi or Fully Synthetic Oil?” StoneCare. Motor Group.

Image Courtesy:

1. “Mineral oil bottle, front” By Angela Mabray – originally posted to Flickr as Mineral Oil, Front (CC BY-SA 2.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Minyak RUNNER™ oil” By Akubudakseni – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia