Middle Distillates Analysis and 2-dimensional Gas Chromatography

Middle distillates analysis with 2-dimensional gas chromatography.

2-dimensional gas chromatography (GCXGC) analysis measures the hydrocarbon composition of middle distillates. Products tested by GCXGC include diesel fuels (mineral diesel, light gas oil (LGO), medium gas oil (MGO), heavy gas oil (HGO), diesel fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) blends), kerosene and synthetic diesel fuels (GTL, BTL, CTL, HVO).  In addition, n-paraffins, iso-paraffins, naphthenes, mono-, di- and tri-aromatic compounds, and low-boiling impurities up to C2 and oxygenates (FAME and alcohols) can be quantified.

Intertek laboratories provide rapid middle distillate testing and reporting, allowing clients to receive prompt testing reports and help them manage quality control and R&D challenges.

Benefits of 2-dimensional gas chromatography: 

2-dimensional gas chromatography analysis (2D-GC) of middle distillates allows refineries to better control reactions in different sections of facilities during the refining process. Test results provide important insights for blend optimization. Fuels data obtained from the 2D-GC techniques allow engine and turbine developers to understand fuel properties and their effects in engine development and optimization.

2-Dimensional gas chromatography provides a greater amount of information about the composition of middle distillates when compared to conventional gas chromatography. The classic 1-D middle distillate analysis produces less precise data regarding the composition of distillates in the form of sum-parameters. In contrast, the 2-D analysis allows the targeted separation of the distillate according to carbon number and the different substance classes (n- and isoparaffins, naphthenes, mono-, di- and tri-aromatic compounds as well as FAME and other oxygenates).

2D-GC allows for more precise separation of polar components (cyclical hydrocarbons, aromatic compounds and FAME) from the non-polar paraffins. For comparing the results from 2D-GC gas chromatography, standardized methods such as DIN EN 12916 (aromatic distribution in diesel fuels), ASTM D 2887 (simulated distillation), DIN EN 14078 (FAME-content) as well as DIN EN 14331 (methyl ester distribution in FAME-blends) can be consulted.

2-dimensional gas chromatography analysis is available globally. Test samples can be easily shipped to the laboratory for prompt handling from European and global clients.