ASTM D6748-02a

Storage stability depends on complex interactions. It varies with feedstock type and source, and the processing used. The rate of degradation may not change uniformly with temperature. Chemical reactions may lead to a change in color followed by the formation of soluble gums and insoluble sediments. Insoluble sediments may overload filters, and plug nozzles and injectors.

This test method, which does not require the test sample to be heated, uses a portable apparatus and allows tests to be carried out on site or in the laboratory to give a result within 35 mins.

The potential beneficial effects of stability additives in fuels may not be recognized by this test method. Therefore, the actual storage stability of middle distillate fuels with stability additives may not be correctly indicated by these test results.

The unstable reactive compounds (phenalenes and phenalenones) detected by this test method may be present in fuels containing catalytically cracked or straight run materials and can affect the potential instability of the fuel.

If this test method is used by any party for a rapid assessment of stability, it is the responsibility of parties concerned to decide whether or not this procedure yields meaningful results.

Interpretation of results and correlation with other test methods is given in Appendix X1.

FIG. 1 Spectrophotometer

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for the rapid determination of phenalenes and phenalenones in middle distillate fuels, including marine, automotive, heating, and gas turbine fuel such as those specified in Specifications D 396, D 975, D 2069, and D 2880. Phenalenes and phenalenones affect the potential instability of fuels, leading to fuel degradation products during storage, which may cause performance problems.

1.2 This test method is applicable to both dyed and undyed fuels at all points in the distribution chain from refinery to end-user. It is not applicable to fuels containing residual oil. The portable apparatus allows the whole test to be conducted on site or in a laboratory and does not require the test sample to be heated.

1.3 This test method is suitable for testing samples with a relative absorbance of up to 5.00 absorbance units (AU).

Note 1—The precision of the test method has been established on relative absorbance up to 1.00 AU. For relative absorbance above 1.00 AU the precision may not apply.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.