TREATMENT OF USED LUBRICATING OIL WITH ACTIVATED CARBON FROM SUGARCANE BAGASSE

Lubricating oils are essential for reducing friction and wear in automotive engines, but they accumulate harmful wear metals over time, which can adversely affect engine performance. This study aims to assess the concentrations of critical wear metals (Cu, Zn, Ni) in used lubricating oil from commercial vehicles while also developing an eco-friendly cleaning agent for treatment.Samples were collected and analyzed using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS), revealing significant concentrations of wear metals in used oil. The findings indicated that the treatment with Sugarcane Bagasse Activated Carbon modified with sulfuric acid resulted in substantial reductions: Cu decreased from 2.32 mg/L to 1.12 mg/L (51.72% removal), Zn from 1.03 mg/L to 0.13 mg/L (87.38% removal), and Ni from 0.77 mg/L to 0.05 mg/L (93.51% removal). Additionally, physical properties improved, with viscosity reducing from 230.69cSt to 95.29cSt, and flashpoint decreasing from 190°C to 173°C, suggesting enhanced performance and safety for potential reuse. The study concludes that utilizing modified sugarcane bagasse activated carbon is an effective method for treating used lubricating oil, contributing to waste management and environmental sustainability. Recommendations include further research on long-term effects of treated oil in various engines, optimization of treatment parameters, and establishment of regulatory standards for reused oil to ensure safety and performance.