Total oxidation is a chemical reaction in which organic compounds are completely oxidized to carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). In the catalysis world, this catalytically assisted oxidation is called catalytic afterburning, and the corresponding plants are called CNV plants.

Total oxidation can be described as a chemical reaction in which a hydrocarbon reacts with oxygen from the air to produce carbon monoxide and water. This reaction takes place using catalysts containing precious metals at high temperatures, which are, however, lower than those used in thermal oxidation.

Total oxidation is an important process in environmental technology, for example in exhaust air purification to remove hydrocarbon residues and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Exhaust air purification is important in order to comply with the emission limits according to the TA-Luft, which are becoming increasingly strict these days.

The process is exothermic and generates heat, the amount of which depends on the organic compounds in the starting material. The heat generated and dissipated can ultimately be used for energy in industrial applications.

The advantages of total oxidation are the ability to break down organic substances without the formation of toxic byproducts such as carbon monoxide (CO) or soot and flexibility in dealing with different pollutants. Using catalysts, total oxidation is more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.