You want to measure the Oxidation Induction Time (OIT) of your materials
What is OIT?
The Oxidation Induction Time (OIT) is an analytical method used to assess a material’s resistance to thermal oxidation.
In practical terms, OIT is the length of time a material can withstand an oxidising atmosphere at a constant temperature before starting to degrade.
It is a key indicator of thermal stability, particularly for polymeric materials, plastics, elastomers and additivated compounds.
Why measure Oxidation Induction Time?
There are several reasons for measuring IOT in the laboratory:
Characterize the thermal stability of a material with respect to oxygen
Checking the effectiveness of antioxidants incorporated into a formulation
Compare material batches or different suppliers
Monitor the accelerated ageing of your products (quality, litigation, etc.)
Identify a loss of performance (failure, alteration, storage problem...)
The OIT analysis method
TIO is measured by DSC analysis, differential scanning calorimetry in an oxygen atmosphere.
It generally follows the ISO 11357-6 standard.
The sample is heated to a constant temperature in a stream of oxygen. The time between the start of exposure and the start of oxidation (detected by an exothermic peak) corresponds to the induction time.
The FILAB laboratory can help you measure the Oxidation Induction Time (OIT) of your materials
Why choose FILAB for the measurement of Oxidation Induction Time (OIT)?
At the FILAB laboratory, we provide you with state-of-the-art analytical equipment, in particular high-performance calorimetric analysis techniques, capable of performing IOT measurements with a high degree of accuracy and perfect reproducibility.
Our in-depth expertise in materials science and formulation enables us to go beyond simple measurement: we can help you interpret the results and optimise your formulations, whether in the development phase or in a quality control context.
Areas of application for OIT measurement
In the plastics and packaging industry, OIT is a key indicator for assessing the resistance of polymer materials used in flexible packaging, barrier films, plastic containers and technical sheathing. It can be used to check the quality of antioxidant additives incorporated into formulations, and to anticipate ageing phenomena.
In the field of healthcare and medical devices, the stability of plastics used in implants, syringes, catheters or single-use components is crucial. TIO helps to guarantee the long-term stability of devices subjected to a variety of storage conditions or sterilisation processes.
The polymers and elastomers used in the passenger compartment, under the bonnet and in the electrical systems must withstand thermal stress and oxidation. The TIO enables materials to be qualified to guarantee their longevity in real-life conditions.
In the cosmetics sector, OIR measurement can be used to check the stability of plastic packaging in contact with sensitive formulations, or to anticipate container-content interactions as part of ageing tests.
In these technical environments, insulation materials and ducts have to withstand prolonged thermal stress. The OIT is a selection and quality control tool to ensure the long-term safety of installations.
