Additive chemistry plays a critical role in the performance and lifespan of lubricating, engine, and industrial oils. Accurate elemental analysis helps identify detergent additives such as calcium and magnesium, anti-wear components such as zinc and phosphorus, friction modifiers such as molybdenum, and other key elements that influence oil performance. This application report explains how ICP-OES enables reliable quantification of additive-related elements and supports the creation of characteristic additive fingerprints for comparing fresh and used oils.
The report demonstrates a robust ICP-OES method for analyzing additive packages across a wide concentration range. The approach delivers low detection limits, excellent linearity, and strong recovery results while maintaining high matrix tolerance for challenging oil samples. Real-world measurements of fresh and used engine oils illustrate how elemental analysis can reveal additive depletion, contamination, and wear-related changes, supporting routine quality control, condition monitoring, and lubricant development.
Readers will learn how modern ICP-OES technology simplifies additive analysis through efficient sample handling, stable performance, and full-spectrum data acquisition. The application report highlights the capabilities of the SPECTRO GENESIS ICP-OES with Dual Side-On plasma observation, which combines enhanced sensitivity with excellent matrix compatibility for accurate multi-element determination in oil matrices.
What readers will gain:
- Learn how ICP-OES supports accurate elemental analysis of additive-related elements in lubricating oils.
- Understand how a single ICP-OES method can measure both trace-level and high-concentration elements without additional dilution.
- Discover how additive fingerprinting helps identify wear, contamination, and changes in oil composition.
Download the application report today to learn how ICP-OES can deliver reliable elemental analysis of lubricant additives and help optimize oil testing workflows.