Fuel Analysis by Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy - Dr. Roland Aschauer

The analysis of fuels, especially gasoline and diesel automotive fuels, by a rapid, accurate, and easy-to-use method which can be applied also in the field is very important for the monitoring of fuel composition and quality at several points in the manufacturing process and distribution chain. Such a method is valuable in laboratories at refineries where fast, accurate results are needed, in small terminal and pipeline laboratories where it is not possible to perform all specified tests but monitoring fuel quality is necessary, at gas stations itself, and in mobile laboratories. IR spectroscopy is the method of choice for such applications for several reasons discussed below.

Advantages of IR Spectroscopy
The IR spectrum contains direct molecular specific information so that many parameters can be determined simultaneously from one measurement.

The evaluation of the spectrum that leads to the final results can be performed automatically by microprocessors, so that the instrument can be automated. Thus IR instruments can be operated by personnel that have no background or training in analytical chemistry.

The measurement is very quick in comparison to other analytical methods, in the order of one minute per analysis.

The instruments to measure the IR spectrum can be made very compact, stable, and robust so that they are portable and may be used in harsh conditions and in the field. The IR analysers do not need any gas or other supply, as neither separation steps nor chemical reactions are required prior to the measurement.

No sample preparation is necessary, only an electrical power line is needed.

No other analytical technique combines all these advantages.