Thermal and Oxidative Stabilities of Liquid Lubricants

The fundamental processes which occur during the thermal and oxidation degradation of hydrocarbons is reviewed. Various classes of liquid lubricants such as mineral oils, esters, polyphenyl ethers, C-ethers, and fluorinated polyethers are emphasized. Techniques to determine thermal and oxidative stabilities of lubricants are discussed. The role of inhibitors and catalysis is examined.