Abstract
Linear solvation relationship was used as a new approach to follow the oxidation steps of both naphthenic and paraffinic base oils and to compare the resistances of both oils against oxidation. The obtained results demonstrate that the values of solvation of both oils change approximately linearly with the oxidation time at constant temperature. It was found that the values of the constants change by a faster rate on oxidation of the naphthenic base oil compared with their rate of change of paraffinic oil oxidation. The changed values of solvation constants during the course of oxidation can be used to follow the initiation, propagation and termination oxidation steps. Copyright (C) 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.