Work Item
ASTM WK76519

New Test Method for Silicon in Gasoline and Related Products (Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Method)

1. Scope

1.1 This test method covers the determination of total silicon by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) in gasoline, gasoline-ethanol blends, reformulated gasoline (RFG) of 0.1 mg kg to 0.4 mg kg. Element present at mass fraction above 0.4 mg/kg can be determined with additional appropriate dilutions. Element shall be measured at the wavelength of 251.6 nm. 1.2 If the sample contains a silicon compound in a volatile form, this test method is not applicable.

Keywords

silicon; graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry; gasoline; gasoline-ethanol blends

Rationale

Two main ways in which gasoline and related products can be contaminated with silicon. Silicon-based antifoam agents are used in the process of ethanol refining, which then the residual silicon may go into the finished ethanol-fuel blend with ethanol. Waste hydrocarbon solvents may contain soluble silicon compounds. When such solvents are added to gasoline, they will be contaminated with silicon. The blends has led to fouled vehicle components (for example, spark plugs, exhaust oxygen sensors, catalytic converters) requiring parts replacement and repairs. This test method gives us a whole new and cheaper way to determine if gasoline and related products meet specifications with respect to silicon content of the fuel, and for resolution of customer problems.

The title and scope are in draft form and are under development within this ASTM Committee.

Details

Developed by Subcommittee: D02.03

Committee: D02

Staff Manager: Alyson Fick

Work Item Status

Date Initiated: 04-12-2021

Technical Contact: Jin Zhiliang

Item: 000

Ballot:

Status: