Determination of Alcohols in Engine Lubricants.
Abstract
THE RECENT INTEREST IN ALCOHOL AND ALCOHOL-CONTAINING FUELS IN SPARK IGNITION ENGINES REQUIRES NEW INFORMATION AND ANALYTICAL METHODS CONCERNING THE PRESENCE OF ALCOHOLS IN USED LUBRICANTS. AFLRL has developed a straightforward, rapid, and accurate method to determine and measure the alcohols. The oil and alcohols are separated using an adsorber or stripper column, and then the alcohols are resolved on the second column in series and determine with a flame ionization detector. Quantitative standards were prepared to include the normally expected range of alcohol content of 0-10 percent. The use of a second alcohol as an internal standard helps offset the reproducibility error involved in the syringe technique. The standard is completed by adding approximately 50 vo1% of CS2. It is suggested that the alcohol chosen as the internal standard be at least 2 carbon numbers higher or lower than the analyte to help enhance the peak resolution and integration. The sample are prepared in much the same manner as the calibration standards, with 1 to 5 percent of the alcohol chosen to be the internal standard added. Because of the small amounts of samples frequently encountered, it is not always reasonable to maintain the ideal 1:1 internal standard/analyte ratio. With small samples, the 1:1 ratio produces problems, such as the dispensing of micro quantities of isopropanol and the tedious mixing for homogeneous samples.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA099038
Entities
People
- Frank M. Newman
- Kenneth B. Jones
Organizations
- Southwest Research Institute