| MadSci Network: Chemistry |
Stacy from Ohio does not indicate wether chloronapthalenes were actually found in the spent fluids or wether there presence was inferred. Chlornapthalenes present Napthenic oil (as opposed to napthalenic oil)is a misnomer because that type of fluid contains little or no naphthalene. Rather it is a petroleum- based fluid that contains a high percentage of alicyclic or closed-ringed aliphatic compounds. For naphthalene to form, a 10-carbon bicyclic compound (decalin) would have to dehydrogenate under high temperatures. Traces of a contaminant such as iron particles could then react with chlorine containing compounds to form ferric chloride. The ferric chloride could catalyze the chlorination of naphthalene. Alternate Explanation A more likely scenario is that the fluoroelastemers were degraded by oxidants such as peroxides. Lubricating oils like tires contain many additives. Those used in lubricating oils include antioxidants, antiwear additives, and corrosion inhibitors. Peroxide formation is accelerated by heat light and catalysts. Oxidation inhibitors function in one of three ways: (1) by combining with and modifying peroxides, (2)by decomposing the peroxide, or (3) by rendering the oxidation catalysts inert. Water, acids or other contaminants present in the lubricating oils could deactivated the anti oxidants and provide an avenue for peroxides to degrade the elastomers.
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