noun
- spontaneous oxidation of a substance when exposed to air or oxygen, typically occurring at room temperature without external heat or catalyst
Usage: technical; chemistry
Examples
- The autoxidation of oils in paint causes the surface to harden and cure over time.
- Fats and oils undergo autoxidation when stored in air, leading to rancidity.
- Autoxidation is a major concern in the preservation of food products.
- The polymer's resistance to autoxidation makes it suitable for outdoor applications.
- Antioxidants are added to prevent autoxidation in rubber and plastic materials.
- Autoxidation reactions can produce harmful free radicals in biological systems.