oxidize / neutralize

[eric 14]

I see a great deal on this board pertaining to oxidizing and neutralizing. Could someone kindly explain the definitions of both.

Thanks

[Paul B. 523]

Oxidization is the fading, chalking and breakdown of the paint. It's primary cause is the sun's UV rays, but weathering also adds to the breakdown process.

Easy way to tell oxidization is by running your hand across vinyl or aluminum siding - your had will have a powdery substance on it after wiping.

Neutralizing is the balancing of pH. For example: if you use a high pH chemical, you can neutralize it (bring pH into balance pH of 6-8. Drinking water has a pH between 6.8-7.4) with a low pH chemical or by rinsing with water. A low pH chemical can be neutralized with a high pH chemical or water. Note that care must be taken when selecting the proper chemicals used in neutralizing, as some chemical interactions can be violent or put out dangerous gases.

pH can be measured with litmus paper or an electronic pH meter.