5.1 Control over the residue content as specified in Specification D1835 is of considerable importance in end-use applications of LPG. Oily residue in LPG is contamination which can occur during production, transportation, or storage.

5.2 This test method is quicker and much more sensitive than manual methods, such as Test Method D2158, which is based on evaporation of large sample volumes followed by visual or gravimetric estimation of residue content.

5.3 This test method provides enhanced sensitivity in measurements of heavier (oily) residues, with a quantification limit of 10 mg/kg total residue.

5.4 This test method gives both quantitative results and information about contaminant composition such as boiling point range and fingerprint, which can be very useful in tracing the source of a particular contaminant.

1.1 This test method covers the determination, by gas chromatography, of soluble hydrocarbon materials, sometimes called “oily residue,” which can be present in Liquefied Petroleum (LP) Gases and which are substantially less volatile than the LPG product.

1.2 This test method quantifies, in the range of 10 to 600 mg/kg (ppm mass), the residue with a boiling point between 174°C and 522°C (C₁₀ to C₄₀) in LPG. Higher boiling materials, or materials that adhere permanently to the chromatographic column, will not be detected.

1.3 Appendix X3 and Appendix X4 describe additional applications which could be performed based on the hardware and procedures described in this test method. Appendix X3 describes a test procedure for expanding the analysis range to benzene, and Appendix X4 describes a test procedure for the analysis of diisopropanolamine in LPG.

1.4 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.5 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.