ASTM D 4815 : 1999

1.1 This test method is designed for the determination of ethers and alcohols in gasolines by gas chromatography. Specific compounds determined are: methyl tert -butylether (MTBE), ethyl tert -butylether (ETBE), tert -amylmethylether (TAME), diisopropylether (DIPE), methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, -propanol, isobutanol, tert -butanol, sec butanol, -butanol, and tert -pentanol ( tert -amylalcohol).

1.2 Individual ethers are determined from 0.1 to 20.0 mass percent. Individual alcohols are determined from 0.1 to 12.0 mass percent. Equations used to convert to mass percent oxygen and to volume % of individual compounds are provided.

1.3 Alcohol-based fuels such as M-85 and E-85, MTBE product, ethanol product and denatured alcohol are specifically excluded from this method. The methanol content of M-85 fuel is considered beyond the operating range of the system.

1.4 Benzene, while detected, cannot be quantified using this test method and must be analyzed by alternate methodology (Test Method D3606 or D4420).

1.5 SI (metric) units are preferred and used throughout this standard. Alternate units, in common usage, are also provided to increase clarity and aid the users of this test method.

1.6 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/i.