Synthetic lubricant is lubricating fluid made by chemically reacting materials of a specific chemical composition to produce a compound with planned and predictable properties; the resulting base stock may be supplemented with additives to improve specific properties.

Many synthetic lubricants are derived wholly or primarily from petrochemicals; other synthetic lubricants’ raw materials are derived from coal and oil shale, or are lipochemicals (from animal and vegetable oils).

Synthetic lubricants may be superior to petroleum oils in specific performance areas. Many exhibit higher viscosity index (VI), better thermal stability and oxidation stability, and low volatility (which reduces oil consumption). Individual synthetic lubricants offer specific outstanding properties: phosphate esters, for example, are fire resistant, diesters have good oxidation stability and lubricity, and silicones offer exceptionally high VI.

Most synthetic lubricants can be converted to grease by adding thickeners. Because synthetic lubricants are higher in cost than petroleum oils, they are used selectively where performance or safety requirements may exceed the capabilities of a conventional oil.

The following is a list of the principal classes of synthetic lubricants:
alkylated aromatics(organic hydrocarbon)
olefin oligomers(organic hydrocarbon)
poly alpha olefins (PAO's)
dibasic acid esters (organic ester)
polyol esters (organic ester)
polyglycols
phosphate esters
silicones
silicate esters
halogenated hydrocarbons
polyphenylethers (PPE's)
perfluoropolyethers (PFPE's).