ASTM WK95172
New Test Method for Detection of microbial contamination in fuel and fuel- associated water samples by measuring carbohydrate content using lateral flow devices
1. Scope
This test method describes a procedure that can be used in the field or in a laboratory setting to detect carbohydrates that indicate microbial contamination in liquid fuels. This includes those blended with synthesized hydrocarbons or biofuels, with kinematic viscosities (at 40 °C) of =24 mm2s–1 (for example, Specifications D396, D975, and D1655) and in fuel-associated water. The method uses a mannose binding lectin (MBL), which binds to carbohydrate structures present in both bacteria and fungi, producing a visible test line signal. The intensity of the generated signal is directly proportional to the carbohydrate concentration in the sample. As such, quantification of the contamination level occurs through comparison with a pre-established standard curve, allowing for accurate determination of carbohydrate concentrations.Keywords
microorganisms; biocontamination; biodeterioration; lateral flow devices; mannan; mannose; galactose/N-acetylgalactosamine; N-acetylglucosamine; polysaccharide; metabolites; protein; ligand; microbial growthRationale
This is a rapid diagnostic test that takes 20-30 minutes to detect microbial contamination in fuel systems. It can be easily performed in the field or in a laboratory by users without any special technical expertise. The method serves as a fuel quality testing tool in the fields of fuel maintenance, storage, and supply and across a range of aviation, marine and land diesel sectors (e.g. commercial and general aviation, military/ defence, power generation, plant equipment). This diagnostic approach targets known types of fuel microbial contaminants, encompassing bacteria, filamentous fungi, and yeasts, all within a singular assay. It not only identifies the presence of these contaminants but also provides fully quantitative results. The results are easily interpreted using a digital reader, facilitating quick decision-making for maintaining fuel quality and system integrity.
Work Item Status
Date Initiated: 06-04-2025
Technical Contact: Myrsini Chronopoulou
Item: 000
Ballot:
Status: