Appeal 2007-0511
Application 10/699,508
1 O’Rear also discloses that a convenient way to measure the stability
2 of lube base oils is using the Oxidator Test. There are two forms of the test:
3 Oxidator BN and Oxidator A. O’Rear, para. [0031].
4 The Oxidator A test is a measure of oxidation stability during
5 shipping and storage. O’Rear, para. [0031].
6 Another method for studying the stability of lube base oils during
7 storage is to monitor floc and sediment formation when stored in an oven
8 while exposed to air. O’Rear, para. [0034].
9 According to the method disclosed in O’Rear, 50 grams of lube base
10 oil is placed in a loosely capped 7 ounce bottle and placed in an oven at
11 150°F. The sample is inspected periodically for an increase in color or
12 formation of floc or sediments. The test is run for 90 days. O’Rear, para.
13 [0034].
14 4. Gatto
15 According to Gatto, para. [0002]:
16 Lubricating oils used in the internal combustion engines
17 of automobiles or trucks are subjected to a demanding
18 environment during use. Among other adverse effects, this
19 environment can lead to oxidative degradation of the oil. This
20 oxidation of the oil is catalyzed by the presence of certain
21 impurities in the oil, such as iron compounds. This oxidation
22 also is promoted by the elevated temperatures to which the oil
23 is subjected during use. The oxidation of lubrication oils during
24 use is usually controlled in part by the use of antioxidant
25 additives, which may extend the useful life of the oil,
26 particularly by reducing or inhibiting unacceptable increases in
27 the viscosity of the oil.
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