Editing Differential scanning calorimetry (section)

===Oxidative stability===
Using differential scanning calorimetry to study the stability to [[oxidation]] of samples generally requires an airtight sample chamber. It can be used to determine the [[oxidative-induction time]] (OIT) of a sample. Such tests are usually done isothermally (at constant temperature) by changing the atmosphere of the sample. First, the sample is brought to the desired test temperature under an inert atmosphere, usually [[nitrogen]]. Oxygen is then added to the system. Any oxidation that occurs is observed as a deviation in the baseline. Such analysis can be used to determine the stability and optimum storage conditions for a material or compound.<ref name=Dean/> DSC equipment can also be used to determine the Oxidative-Onset Temperature (OOT) of a material. In this test a sample (and a reference) are exposed to an oxygen atmosphere and subjected to a constant rate of heating (typically from 50 to 300&nbsp;°C). The DSC heat flow curve will deviate when the reaction with oxygen begins (the reaction being either [[exothermic]] or [[endothermic]]). Both OIT and OOT tests are used as a tools for determining the activity of [[antioxidant]]s.