Polymethacrylate (PMA) Viscosity Modifier
Polymethacrylate (PMA) viscosity modifier — the premium VM for excellent low-temperature performance and shear stability, with built-in pour point depression. The choice for ATF, hydraulic and high-VI oils.
The premium viscosity modifier for low-temperature performance
Viscosity modifiers thicken oil more at high temperature than low, flattening the viscosity-temperature curve. PMA does this with outstanding low-temperature behaviour and a built-in pour point benefit.
Polymethacrylate (PMA) is the premium viscosity modifier (VM / viscosity index improver), prized for excellent low-temperature performance and shear stability. Its comb-like polymer structure delivers good thickening efficiency while also depressing the pour point — a bonus that few other VMs provide. This makes PMA the preferred choice for automatic transmission fluids (ATF), hydraulic oils (HVLP), gear oils and high-VI multigrade oils that must perform across wide temperature ranges. It is part of the viscosity index improver range and contrasts with OCP and HSD types.
Polymethacrylate (PMA) Viscosity Modifier — typical properties
Representative typical values for PMA viscosity modifier. Indicative only — exact values vary by grade and are confirmed on the TDS and batch COA.
| Property | Typical Value | Method / Note |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Viscous liquid | Visual |
| Polymer type | Polymethacrylate | Comb structure |
| Shear stability (SSI) | Low to moderate | Grade-dependent |
| Low-temperature performance | Excellent | PMA strength |
| Pour point depression | Built-in | Bonus property |
| Kinematic viscosity (100°C) | Grade-dependent | ASTM D445 |
| Function | VM + PPD | Wide-temperature |
Typical values for guidance only — not a specification. Request the TDS for the specific grade you need; the COA reports actual measured values for your batch.
Where PMA viscosity modifier is used
Automatic Transmission Fluids
Preferred VM for ATF wide-temperature operation. See transmission fluid additives.
Hydraulic Oils (HVLP)
High-VI multigrade hydraulic oils. See hydraulic oil.
Gear Oils
Multigrade gear oils needing low-temperature flow.
High-VI Oils
Wide-temperature oils benefiting from PMA's low-temperature strength.
Why formulators choose PMA viscosity modifier
Excellent low-temperature performance
Outstanding cold-temperature behaviour for wide-temperature oils.
Built-in pour point depression
Depresses pour point as a bonus — a property few other VMs offer.
Good shear stability
Maintains viscosity grade in service, especially low-SSI grades.
From sample drum to ISO tank
Sinolook supplies PMA viscosity modifier at any scale, from formulation samples to commercial bulk, to over 60 countries.
Other viscosity index improvers
Explore the rest of the viscosity index improver range:
Frequently asked questions
What is a polymethacrylate (PMA) viscosity modifier used for?
Why is PMA good for low temperatures?
What is the difference between PMA and OCP viscosity modifiers?
Does PMA depress pour point as well as modify viscosity?
Can Sinolook provide TDS, MSDS and COA?
Request PMA viscosity modifier from Sinolook
Tell us your target grade, application and volume — we'll send the TDS, a batch COA and a delivered quotation within 24 hours.
Request a Quote