The term oxidation was originally used to describe reactions in which an element combines with oxygen. For example, the reaction between magnesium metal and oxygen to form magnesium oxide involves the oxidation of magnesium. Oxidation is a process in which a chemical substance changes due to the addition of oxygen.
Technologies and industrial material developments lead companies producing additives and lubricants to develop higher performance lubricants. Besides wear, good surface properties, anti-corrosion protection, one of the key properties is oxidation and thermal stability. The performance of these oils needs to be evaluated using laboratory tests. Thermal and oxidation properties are generally evaluated by the following tests: hydraulic fluids, turbine oils, compressor oils and industrial gear oils.
Lubricating oils are critical products without which no equipment or engine can operate. Businesses focus on the essential properties of oil in industrial systems, prioritizing oxidation resistance and thermal stability. In an industrial lubrication system, the lubricant is subject to numerous constraints, including a wide temperature range, the presence of hot spots, evaporation, and sometimes several additives. These demanding service conditions lead manufacturers to seek thermo-stable base oils as well as the most efficient additives.
The oxidation process develops in three stages: initiation, propagation, and termination . During the initiation stage, oxygen reacts with the lubricant to form alkyl radicals. During the propagation stage, these radicals react with oxygen and the lubricant to form peroxy radicals and hydroperoxides. With the uptake of oxygen, hydroperoxides accumulate during the induction period, followed by an automatic acceleration of oxidation. Hydroperoxides decompose thermally or in the presence of metal into various additional radicals and oxygen-containing compounds. Oxygen-containing compounds include alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and carboxylic acids.
Meanwhile, some parameters deeply affect the oxidation process. For example, the presence of temperature, corrosion metals and water, which must double the rate of oxidation for every ten degree increase. If oxidation is not controlled, lubricant decomposition leads to oil thickening and the formation of resins, deposits and corrosive acids.
Our organization also provides tarnishing and oxidation testing services with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.
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