Petroleum-based lubricants, also known as mineral oils or fossil oil lubricants, are lubricants derived from crude oil through a refining process. These lubricants are widely used in various applications due to their effectiveness and availability. Here’s a more detailed overview: ### Characteristics 1. **Base Oil Composition**: They are primarily composed of hydrocarbons, which can vary in carbon chain length and structure. The refining process can yield different types of lubricants with varying viscosities and properties.