ASTM D7796-12

5.1 The presence of impurities in ETBE product can have a deleterious effect upon the value of ETBE as a fuel additive. Oxygenate and olefin contents are of primary concern. This test method provides a knowledge of the composition of ETBE product. This is useful in the evaluation of process operations control, in the valuation of the product, and for regulatory purposes.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of the purity of ethyl tert-butyl ether (ETBE) by gas chromatography. It also provides a procedure to measure impurities in ETBE such as C₄ to C₁₂ olefins, methyl, isopropyl and tert-butyl alcohols, methyl sec-butyl and methyl tert-amyl ethers, acetone, and methyl ethyl ketone.

1.2 This test method is not applicable to the determination of ETBE in gasoline.

1.3 Water cannot be determined by this test method and shall be measured by a procedure such as Test Method D6304 and the result used to normalize the chromatographic values.

1.4 Most of the impurities in ETBE are resolved by the test method, however, some co-elution is encountered.

1.5 This test method is inappropriate for impurities that boil at temperatures higher than 180°C or for impurities that cause poor or no response in a flame ionization detector, such as water.

1.6 The values stated in SI units of measurement are preferred and used throughout the standard. Alternate units, in common usage, are also provided to improve clarity and aid the user of this test methods.

1.7 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.