History of Synthetic Oil Development

The first companies to produce and market synthetic oil were Amsoil and Mobil. The development of non-conventional fluids first came about in the 1960s and 70s. Synthetics were more uniform in size and possessed a lower weight at the molecular level, making them a more efficient choice for running an automobile.

Slow to Catch on

It took a generation before synthetics became more trusted by consumers who were accustomed to using conventional oils. Not only that, but rivals did their best to plant false ideas about synthetics in the minds of impressionable drivers. Despite the fact synthetics have measurably superior oil viscosity performance at all temperatures and that they improve fuel economy, they did not catch on for a long time.

Today

Today almost every producer of conventional oil has a line of synthetics as well. Synthetics such as paraffinic oils are distinctly better lubricants than conventional crude-based products. Overall, the acceptance has caught up with the technology, and the industry is better off for it.

There are still misconceptions about both types of lubricant such as synthetics last forever and that dark oil means it needs to be changed. If history has anything to teach, it’s that what is believed today will not necessarily be so tomorrow.