ASTM International Standard Test Method for Determination of Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, p/m -Xylene, o -Xylene, C 9 and Heavier Aromatics, and Total Aromatics in Finished Gasoline by Gas Chromatography ASTM D5580-02

1.1 This test method covers the determination of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, the xylenes, C9 and heavier aromatics, and total aromatics in finished motor gasoline by gas chromatography. 1.2 The aromatic hydrocarbons are separated without interferences from other hydrocarbons in finished gasoline. Nonaromatic hydrocarbons having a boiling point greater than n-dodecane may cause interferences with the determination of the C9 and heavier aromatics. For the C8 aromatics, p-xylene and m-xylene co-elute while ethylbenzene and o-xylene are separated. The C9 and heavier aromatics are determined as a single group. 1.3 This test method covers the following concentration ranges, in liquid volume %, for the preceding aromatics: benzene, 0.1 to 5 %; toluene, 1 to 15 %; individual C8 aromatics, 0.5 to 10 %; total C9 and heavier aromatics, 5 to 30 %, and total aromatics, 10 to 80 %. 1.4 Results are reported to the nearest 0.01 % by either mass or by liquid volume. 1.5 Many of the common alcohols and ethers that are added to gasoline to reduce carbon monoxide emissions and increase octane, do not interfere with the analysis. Ethers such as methyl tert 1.6 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are provided for information only; they may not be exact equivalents. 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.