Analysis of Gasoline Blends and Finished Gasoline using Reformulyzer® M4 according to ASTM D6839 & EN ISO 22854

Importance of the Topic

Group-type analysis of gasoline and its blends plays a critical role in fuel quality assurance, regulatory compliance and refinery optimization. Detailed characterization of paraffins, olefins, naphthenes, aromatics and oxygenates informs decisions to reduce emissions, enhance performance and meet stringent specifications.

Objectives and Overview

This application note demonstrates a rapid and compliant method for quantitative determination of hydrocarbon classes and oxygenate content in finished gasoline and gasoline blends using the AC Reformulyzer M4. The approach aligns with ASTM D6839 and EN ISO 22854 standards while achieving a 39 minute total runtime.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The method utilizes a combination of capillary and micropacked columns with integrated traps for sequential separation:

• Polar column for retention of paraffins and naphthenes while aromatics elute
• Pre-column to retain heavy aromatics and alcohols
• Ether/alcohol trap and olefin trap with backflush capability
• Boiling point column for final fractionation of saturated and aromatic groups
• Separate heater zones for parallel temperature programming

Detection is performed by flame ionization detector and analysis modes are selectable based on sample type (e.g., naphtha, reformate, gasoline blends). The AC Reformulyzer M4 instrument supports modular valve configurations and complies with multiple international methods including ASTM D6839 and EN ISO 22854.

Main Results and Discussion

Representative chromatograms of a gravimetric blend and a certified reference gasoline N material show clear separation of saturates, olefins, aromatics and oxygenates. Quantitative outcomes include both weight percent and volume percent distributions by carbon number. For the gasoline N CRM, group totals fall within expected ranges: paraffins ~37 wt %, aromatics ~35 wt %, olefins ~10 wt %, oxygenates ~11 wt %. Carbon number profiles confirm resolution across C4 to C11 fractions, demonstrating accuracy and reproducibility.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The AC Reformulyzer M4 method offers:

• Rapid 39 minute analysis time per sample
• Compliance with ASTM D6839, EN ISO 22854 and related standards
• High precision and reproducibility for quality control
• Versatility across gasoline, naphtha and reformer feed streams
• Detailed carbon number distribution aiding process optimization

Future Trends and Opportunities

Advances may include integration with laboratory information management systems for automated data handling, application of chemometric models for predictive quality assessments, adaptation to emerging biofuel blends beyond ethanol (e.g., butanol) and further miniaturization for on-line process monitoring. Enhanced data analytics could drive real-time optimization in refinery and blending operations.

Conclusion

The AC Reformulyzer M4 delivers fast, precise and method-compliant group-type analysis of gasoline and blends within 39 minutes. Its modular design and robust performance support diverse refinery and analytical applications, enabling efficient fuel characterization and regulatory adherence.

References

• ASTM D6839 – Standard Test Method for Determination of Hydrocarbon Group Types in Finished Gasoline by Gas Chromatography
• EN ISO 22854 – Petroleum Products – Determination of Hydrocarbon Group Types in Finished Gasoline by Gas Chromatography
• ASTM D5443, IP566, SH/T 0741, GB/T 28768-2012