Measuring Elements in Residual Fuels and Crude Oil per Method ASTM D8322

Significance of the Topic

The accurate quantification of trace and major elements in residual fuels and crude oils is vital for optimizing refining operations, preventing equipment corrosion, monitoring catalyst health, and meeting environmental regulations. ASTM D8322, implemented via MP-AES, addresses these needs by providing robust multi-element analysis in a single, streamlined workflow.

Objectives and Overview of the Study

This work demonstrates the application of ASTM D8322 on an Agilent 4210 Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES) to:

1. Provide extended elemental coverage (V, Ni, Ca, Na, Al, Si, Zn, Fe, S) for residual fuels and crude oils.
2. Compare MP-AES performance against established methods such as ICP-OES, Flame AAS, and X-ray spectrometry.
3. Highlight the advantages of simplified sample preparation, reduced gas usage, and rapid analysis.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Technique: Microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy using nitrogen plasma on the Agilent 4210 MP-AES, requiring no flammable gases.
• Sample Preparation: Simple “dilute and shoot” protocol without ashing or fusion steps, minimizing preparation time and potential contamination.
• Instrument Features:
  
  • Integrated nitrogen generator eliminates dependence on bottled gases and lowers operational costs.
  • User-friendly software with preset methods enables setup in three intuitive steps: loading the method, entering sample metadata, and running the analysis.

Main Results and Discussion

• The MP-AES method delivered accurate and precise measurements for all target elements, matching or surpassing conventional techniques in sensitivity and linear range.
• Analysis throughput improved significantly due to reduced sample preparation and shorter measurement times.
• Operational safety was enhanced by eliminating combustible gases, and gas consumption was lowered compared to ICP-OES (argon) and Flame AAS (acetylene).

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Consolidation of multiple ASTM methods into a single platform reduces capital investment and maintenance requirements.
• Minimal operator training and intuitive workflows increase laboratory efficiency for QA/QC and research applications.
• Enhanced safety profile supports deployment in remote or minimally staffed facilities.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

• Expansion of MP-AES methodologies to additional petrochemical feedstocks, biofuels, and process streams.
• Integration with real-time process monitoring systems for continuous quality assurance in refineries.
• Adoption of advanced automation and data analytics to further streamline multi-element analysis and method development.

Conclusion

Implementing ASTM D8322 on the Agilent 4210 MP-AES offers a unified, efficient, and cost-effective solution for multi-element analysis in residual fuels and crude oils. The approach enhances laboratory productivity, safety, and data quality, making it an attractive option for modern petrochemical testing laboratories.

Reference

• Agilent Technologies. Direct multi-elemental analysis of crude oils using the Agilent 4200/4210 MP-AES, publication 5991-7104EN.
• Agilent Technologies. Determination of metals in petroleum fractions using MP-AES, publication 5991-9122EN.
• Agilent Technologies. Determination of major elements in methanol using the Agilent 4200 MP-AES, publication 5991-6469EN.
• Agilent Technologies. Measurement of additives in lubricating oils using the Agilent 4100 MP-AES, publication 5990-8924EN.