Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In July 2023, Chevron Phillips Chemical announced a capacity expansion of its VII productions to meet the increasing demand for VIIs in the automotive and industrial sectors.

• In April 2023, Lubrizol introduced a new line of viscosity index improvers (VIIs) for automotive lubricants, claiming to offer enhanced performance, including improved oxidation and thermal stability.

The Chemical Class segment focuses on the various types of viscosity grade improvers used in lubricant formulations. Key chemical classes include Olefin Copolymers (OCP), Polyisobutylene (PIB), Styrene Butadiene Rubbers (SBR), and Polyalphaolefins (PAO). Olefin Copolymers are widely used due to their high performance and effectiveness in improving the low-temperature flow properties of lubricants. Polyisobutylene is another popular improver, especially valued for its low volatility and stability. Styrene Butadiene Rubbers are used for their ability to provide shear stability and improve the high-temperature performance of lubricants. Polyalphaolefins, on the other hand, are high-performance synthetic fluids that help in improving the overall lubricity and viscosity at a broad range of temperatures.

The Viscosity Grade segment divides the market based on the grades of lubricants, which indicate their flow characteristics at different temperatures. The SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) viscosity grades are commonly used for automotive lubricants and range from 0W to 60 (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40). Viscosity grade improvers are used to ensure that lubricants maintain optimal viscosity in various operating conditions, improving engine protection and fuel efficiency. Low-viscosity grades, such as 0W-20 or 5W-20, are becoming increasingly popular in response to the demand for energy-efficient lubricants, while high-viscosity grades, like 15W-40 or 20W-50, are used for heavy-duty vehicles and machinery that require higher load-bearing capacities.

The Geography segment evaluates the lubricant viscosity grade improvers market across different regions, including North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa. The Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to dominate the market, driven by the robust automotive manufacturing industries in countries like China, India, and Japan, where the demand for high-performance lubricants is rising rapidly. North America and Europe are also significant markets due to strict environmental regulations and the need for high-efficiency automotive and industrial lubricants. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets with increasing industrial and automotive growth, further fueling the demand for lubricant viscosity grade improvers in these regions.

Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market has been segmented by Chemical Class, Viscosity Grade, and Geography.

Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market, Segmentation by Chemical Class

The Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market has been segmented by Chemical Class into OCP-based, PMA-based and Styrenics-based.

OCP-based improvers are widely used due to their effectiveness in broadening the temperature range over which lubricants maintain their optimal viscosity. These additives help enhance the performance of lubricants in extreme temperatures, providing stability and reducing friction. OCP-based improvers are particularly valuable in automotive and industrial applications where varying temperature conditions demand reliable lubrication. Their versatility and performance characteristics make them a popular choice in the lubricant industry.

PMA-based improvers are another key segment, known for their excellent low-temperature fluidity and high shear stability. These additives are effective in improving the viscosity index of lubricants, ensuring that they perform consistently across a wide temperature range. PMA-based improvers are often used in engine oils and transmission fluids where maintaining proper lubrication under fluctuating temperatures is crucial. Their ability to enhance the low-temperature properties of lubricants makes them particularly valuable in regions with cold climates or in high-performance applications.

Styrenics-based improvers are less common but offer unique benefits, such as enhanced compatibility with other lubricant components and improved shear stability. These additives can improve the performance of lubricants in specific applications where other types of improvers may fall short. Styrenics-based improvers are often used in specialty lubricants and applications requiring specific performance characteristics. Their specialized properties contribute to the overall diversity and capability of lubricant formulations, addressing niche needs within the market.

Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market, Segmentation by Viscosity Grade

The Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market has been segmented by Viscosity Grade into Multigrade oils and Monograde oils.

Multigrade oils are designed to perform effectively across a wide range of temperatures. These oils are formulated to provide optimal viscosity and lubrication under both high and low temperature conditions, making them highly versatile. Multigrade oils are commonly used in automotive engines, where they must adapt to varying operating temperatures and conditions. Viscosity grade improvers play a crucial role in enhancing the performance of these oils, ensuring they maintain their lubricating properties and efficiency throughout their service life.

Monograde oils, on the other hand, are formulated for use at a specific temperature range. These oils offer consistent performance within their designated temperature limits but may not perform as effectively outside of this range. Monograde oils are often used in applications where operating conditions are stable and predictable, such as in certain industrial machinery or older automotive engines. Viscosity grade improvers for monograde oils are designed to maintain the oil’s performance within its intended temperature range, ensuring reliability and efficiency in specific operating environments.

The distinction between multigrade and monograde oils reflects the diverse needs of lubrication applications. The growth in the multigrade oil segment is driven by the increasing complexity of modern engines and the demand for high-performance lubricants that can handle variable conditions. Meanwhile, the monograde oil segment remains important for applications with stable operating conditions, where simpler formulations can be effective. The development of viscosity grade improvers tailored to each type helps enhance their performance and adaptability, meeting the specific requirements of different lubrication needs.

Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

The global lubricant viscosity grade improvers market exhibits significant regional variations in market share, reflecting diverse industrial and automotive activities across different areas.

Asia-Pacific holds the largest share of the market, driven by its robust automotive manufacturing base and expanding industrial sector. Countries like China, Japan, and India are major contributors due to their high production and consumption of lubricants. The region's rapid economic growth, coupled with advancements in automotive and industrial technologies, supports the dominant position of Asia-Pacific in the global market for viscosity grade improvers.

North America and Europe also have substantial market shares, supported by their advanced automotive industries and stringent regulatory standards. In North America, the market is driven by a well-established automotive sector and a focus on high-performance lubricants, including those with advanced viscosity grade improvers. Europe’s market is similarly influenced by its emphasis on high-quality lubricants and compliance with environmental regulations. Both regions are characterized by mature markets with a focus on innovation and performance.

Latin America and Middle East & Africa are emerging markets with growing contributions to the global viscosity grade improvers market. In Latin America, industrial growth and increased automotive activity drive demand for high-performance lubricants. The Middle East & Africa are seeing rising demand as infrastructure projects and industrial activities expand. While these regions have smaller market shares compared to Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe, their growth potential highlights the global reach and evolving dynamics of the viscosity grade improvers market.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Advancements in automotive engine technologies
• Increasing demand for high-performance industrial lubricants
• Stringent emission and environmental regulations

• Growth in industrialization and infrastructure development - The growth in industrialization and infrastructure development significantly impacts the global lubricant viscosity grade improvers market. As industries expand and new infrastructure projects are undertaken, there is an increased demand for machinery and equipment that require high-performance lubricants. These lubricants, enhanced with viscosity grade improvers, are crucial for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of industrial machinery operating under diverse and often extreme conditions. This demand is driven by the need to ensure smooth operation, reduce maintenance costs, and extend equipment life in a rapidly industrializing environment.

  Infrastructure development projects, such as the construction of roads, bridges, and urban facilities, further drive the need for advanced lubricants. These projects involve heavy-duty machinery and equipment that operate in challenging environments, including high temperatures and variable conditions. Viscosity grade improvers help these lubricants maintain consistent performance, ensuring that the machinery operates effectively and reliably. The expansion of infrastructure in both developed and emerging markets contributes to the growing market for these additives, as the demand for durable and efficient lubricants increases.

  The ongoing industrialization in emerging economies presents significant opportunities for viscosity grade improvers. As these regions invest in industrial growth and infrastructure, the need for advanced lubrication solutions grows. Manufacturers of viscosity grade improvers are focusing on these emerging markets to capitalize on the expanding demand. The growth in these economies not only increases the overall market size but also drives innovation and the development of new products tailored to the specific needs of rapidly developing industrial and infrastructure sectors.

Restraints

• Fluctuations in raw material prices
• Regulatory challenges and compliance costs
• High cost of advanced viscosity improvers

• Competition from alternative additive technologies -Competition from alternative additive technologies presents a notable challenge to the global lubricant viscosity grade improvers market. Technologies such as nano-additives and solid lubricants offer unique advantages that can outperform traditional viscosity grade improvers in specific applications. Nano-additives, which incorporate nanoparticles into lubricants, can enhance performance by providing superior friction reduction, improved wear resistance, and better thermal stability. These additives are gaining traction in high-performance and precision applications where traditional improvers might not suffice.

  Solid lubricants, including materials like graphite and molybdenum disulfide, provide an alternative to liquid additives. They are particularly effective in extreme conditions where liquid lubricants may struggle, such as high temperatures or harsh environments. Solid lubricants can reduce friction and wear without the need for fluid-based solutions, making them an attractive option for certain industrial and aerospace applications. Their ability to perform under conditions that challenge traditional lubricants creates competition for viscosity grade improvers.

  Advanced coating technologies also compete with traditional additives by offering durable, long-lasting solutions. Coatings like diamond-like carbon (DLC) or ceramic coatings create a protective layer on surfaces, reducing friction and wear. These coatings can eliminate or reduce the need for traditional lubricants in some applications, posing a competitive threat to viscosity grade improvers. As these alternative technologies continue to evolve and become more cost-effective, they challenge the market position of conventional additives, driving innovation and potentially reshaping the lubricant industry landscape.

Opportunities

• Innovation in biodegradable and eco-friendly additives
• Expansion in emerging markets and developing economies
• Development of advanced polymers and specialized improvers

• Growth in electric and hybrid vehicle lubricants - The growth in electric and hybrid vehicle lubricants is significantly influencing the global lubricant viscosity grade improvers market. As electric and hybrid vehicles become more prevalent, the demand for specialized lubricants that meet the unique needs of these vehicles is increasing. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids require lubricants that enhance the efficiency and performance of their electric drivetrains, battery cooling systems, and other advanced components. This shift is driving innovation in lubricant formulations, including the development of viscosity grade improvers tailored for the specific requirements of these technologies.

  Electric vehicles, in particular, operate with fewer moving parts compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, reducing the traditional need for engine oils. However, they still require specialized lubricants for components such as electric motor bearings, gearboxes, and thermal management systems. Viscosity grade improvers are crucial in these applications to ensure optimal performance and reliability under varying temperature conditions and operating stresses. The growing emphasis on electric and hybrid vehicles is spurring the development of advanced additives that can meet the performance and environmental standards of these new vehicle technologies.

  As governments and manufacturers push for increased adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles, there is a growing focus on sustainability and efficiency. This trend is leading to innovations in lubricant formulations that not only improve performance but also align with environmental goals. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to create viscosity grade improvers that enhance the efficiency of electric and hybrid vehicles while reducing the environmental impact. This evolving market dynamic presents significant opportunities for growth and innovation within the lubricant industry.

Key players in Global Lubricant Viscosity Grade Improvers Market include :

• Chevron Oronite
• Evonik
• Infineum
• Lubrizol
• NewMarket

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis