Page 6 - Shimadzu Renewable Fuels Industry

Analyzing Denaturant in Ethanol

With rising concern over the need to reduce carbon dioxide emissions as one measure for controlling global warming, bioethanol
is receiving greater attention as an alternative fuel for gasoline.
In the United States, a denaturant is added to fuel grade ethanol, and the quality standard for this denatured fuel ethanol is
specified in ASTM Method D4806. As part of this specification, D5501-04 specifies the measurement method and allowable
concentrations of methanol as an impurity and ethanol as the principle ingredient. Furthermore, it also stipulates that gas
chromatography be used for this determination of the methanol and ethanol content in denatured fuel ethanol.

Shimadzu Analysis of Ethanol, Methanol, and

Denaturants Features

• Adheres to ASTM methods D4806 and D5501-04
• GC is an excellent quantitative tool for quality control
• Improved analysis times

GC Chromatogram of Denatured Fuel
Ethanol Column: Rtx-1 PONA
(100 m, 0.25 mm I.D. df = 0.5 um)

Shimadzu Gas Chromatograph (GC)
Features

Large display
Shows most analysis details at a glance. Intelligent self-diagnostics validate the
instrument before injection, which reduces unexpected downtime

Split/Splitless Injection Unit
Standard unit for high-speed analysis with a narrow bore column. The gas saver
function restricts the total gas used. High-pressure injection standard.

Flame Ionization Detector
Automatic ignition and re-ignition functions are standard. By mounting an APC or
solenoid valve unit, a feedback function cuts off gas supply when the hydrogen flame
is extinguished. Generally used for detection of organic compounds with a hydrogen
carbon bond. An optional flame monitor is available. Single and dual FIDs are available

AOC-20 Series Auto Injector
The AOC-20i auto injector and AOC-20s auto sampler are used with the GC-2014.
Varying the parameters of sample injection sets the optimal injection mode. This high
level of precision and repeatability is not possible with manual injection.

6