The chemical reaction in which a material combines with oxygen to form an oxide, i.e., the positive valence of the material increases. Oxidation results in the deterioration of an adhesive due to atmospheric exposure. to the breakdown of a hot-melt adhesive because of prolonged heating. and to the deterioration of paper due to an excessive amount of alkali which results in an excessively high pH. See also:HYDROGEN-ION CONCENTRATION .
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