Not up on zinkdialkyldithiophosphate? No problem.

Grasp these points about engine oil additives and leave chemistry to the engineers.

ConocoPhillips announced a startling claim last year: It had managed to liquefy the exotic metal titanium and dissolve it into diesel engine oils.

Technicians take a field test sample of Kendall Super DXA with liquid titanium, one of the more recent and advanced diesel engine oil additives.

“Our exclusive liquid-titanium additive technology provides a molecular-level shield against wear,” says a company brochure. “It incorporates into metal surfaces to become chemically bonded, particularly in areas of extreme, localized heat.” The result, says Steve Tarbox, director of product management, is an additive that “enhances wear protection, improves corrosion control and reduces oxidation of the oil.”

ConocoPhillips’ development is just one example of oil laboratory breakthroughs over the years. These engineering achievements have led to oils that contain dozens of sometimes exotic anti-wear chemicals that prolong engine life to levels only dreamed of in the past. Here are the key things you need to know about additives.

Regardless of additives, the best oil selection guides are your owner’s manual and oil product labels. “Use the oil recommended by the OEM,” says Chevron Global Lubricants’ West Alexander, products specialist, heavy-duty engine oils. “This ensures that the trucker’s warranty is validated. For all 2007, pre- and post-2007 engines, the primary recommendation is API CJ-4. Oils licensed as CJ-4 have passed nine engine and 14 bench tests. Five of the engine tests are wear tests.”