ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 5

Differentiation of Automotive and Locomotive Lubricant Oil
Copeland, A
Chief and Senior Forensic Scientist, National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, OR

Espinoza, EO
Chief and Senior Forensic Scientist, National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, OR

Leonardo, L
Chief and Senior Forensic Scientist, National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, OR

Mann, MJ
Chief and Senior Forensic Scientist, National Fish and Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, OR

(Received 1 October 1993; accepted 23 November 1993)

Abstract

Migratory waterfowl can confuse open oil pits for freshwater ponds. These open pits lead to waterfowl death. Frequently the pits contain oil and waste lubricant oil from automotive or locomotive origin. Automotive lubricant oil contains zinc dithiophosphate, a detergent and dispersant chemical additive. Locomotive lubricant oils do not contain zinc dithiophosphate. A GC-MS and XRF technique is presented that allows for the characterization of used lubricant oil as to being from automotive of locomotive sources. Identification of the oil source aids in the prosecution of open oil pit owners.

Keywords:
forensic science, lubricant oil, automotive, locomotive, XRF, waterfowl

Paper ID: JFS13661J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13661J
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.