Variations on the oxidative induction testing methodology for polymer analysis

Abstract We have modified the ASTM method on oxidative induction testing (D‐3895‐92) into a generalized technique with considerably expanded applications to polymer systems in addition to the polyolefins. Testing parameters we have experimented with success are: much wider temperature ranges, oxygen pressure, combination of oven aging and the differential scanning calorimeter, and both the exothermic and endothermic degradation polymer systems. In terms of non‐olefin polymer systems, we have obtained good results from flexible PVC formulations, thermoplastic polyesters, styrene based thermoplastic elastomers, among others. Insights generated from these tests can be used to optimize polymer selection, formulation and processing conditions.