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CarCareTruth

Polyalphaolefin (PAO)

  • Base oils
  • CAS 68037-01-4
  • IUPAC: poly(1-decene), hydrogenated

CarCareTruth tracks Polyalphaolefin (PAO) (CAS 68037-01-4) as a car-care ingredient.

Generally low hazard. Not classified as hazardous under GHS/CLP at standard viscosity grades. No significant inhalation, skin, or ingestion risks under normal handling conditions.

Polyalphaolefin (PAO) is the primary synthetic base oil in full-synthetic motor oils. Made from polymerization of alpha-olefin monomers (typically 1-decene), PAO offers excellent low-temperature fluidity, high viscosity index, and oxidation stability vs mineral oils.

Group IV base oil designation under API classification. Fully formulated motor oils blend PAO with additive packages including ZDDP, detergents, dispersants, and viscosity modifiers.

Regulatory status

  • Not listed under CA Prop 65
  • Not classified as hazardous under GHS/CLP
  • API Group IV classification

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
no
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
4/5
Purpose: Primary synthetic base oil in full-synthetic motor oils; Group IV base oil under API classification

Common questions about Polyalphaolefin (PAO)

What is Polyalphaolefin (PAO) used for in car care?
Primary synthetic base oil in full-synthetic motor oils; Group IV base oil under API classification
Is Polyalphaolefin (PAO) a VOC?
No. Polyalphaolefin (PAO) is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Polyalphaolefin (PAO) on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Polyalphaolefin (PAO) is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

No products on file contain this (yet)

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.