Designation: D2887 − 16a

Designation: 406

Standard Test Method for

Boiling Range Distribution of Petroleum Fractions by Gas
Chromatography1,2
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D2887; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
This standard has been approved for use by agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense.

1. Scope* 1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as

standard. The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for
1.1 This test method covers the determination of the boiling
information only.
range distribution of petroleum products. The test method is
applicable to petroleum products and fractions having a final 1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
boiling point of 538 °C (1000 °F) or lower at atmospheric safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
pressure as measured by this test method. This test method is responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
limited to samples having a boiling range greater than 55.5 °C priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
(100 °F), and having a vapor pressure sufficiently low to permit bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
sampling at ambient temperature.
2. Referenced Documents
NOTE 1—Since a boiling range is the difference between two
temperatures, only the constant of 1.8 °F ⁄°C is used in the conversion of 2.1 ASTM Standards:3
the temperature range from one system of units to another. D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and
Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
1.1.1 Procedure A (Sections 6 – 14)—Allows a larger
D1160 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at
selection of columns and analysis conditions such as packed
Reduced Pressure
and capillary columns as well as a Thermal Conductivity
D2892 Test Method for Distillation of Crude Petroleum
Detector in addition to the Flame Ionization Detector. Analysis
(15-Theoretical Plate Column)
times range from 14 min to 60 min.
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
1.1.2 Procedure B (Sections 15 – 23)—Is restricted to only Petroleum Products
3 capillary columns and requires no sample dilution. In D4626 Practice for Calculation of Gas Chromatographic
addition, Procedure B is used not only for the sample types Response Factors
described in Procedure A but also for the analysis of samples D6708 Practice for Statistical Assessment and Improvement
containing biodiesel mixtures B5, B10, and B20. The analysis of Expected Agreement Between Two Test Methods that
time, when using Procedure B (Accelerated D2887), is reduced Purport to Measure the Same Property of a Material
to about 8 min. D7096 Test Method for Determination of the Boiling Range
1.2 This test method is not to be used for the analysis of Distribution of Gasoline by Wide-Bore Capillary Gas
gasoline samples or gasoline components. These types of Chromatography
samples must be analyzed by Test Method D7096. D7169 Test Method for Boiling Point Distribution of
Samples with Residues Such as Crude Oils and Atmo-
spheric and Vacuum Residues by High Temperature Gas
1
Chromatography
This test method is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of
E260 Practice for Packed Column Gas Chromatography
Subcommittee D02.04.0H on Chromatographic Distribution Methods. E355 Practice for Gas Chromatography Terms and Relation-
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2016. Published November 2016. Originally ships
approved in 1973. Last previous edition approved in 2016 as D2887 – 16. DOI:
10.1520/D2887-16A.
2
This standard has been developed through the cooperative effort between
3
ASTM International and the Energy Institute, London. The EI and ASTM For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
International logos imply that the ASTM International and EI standards are contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
technically equivalent, but does not imply that both standards are editorially Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
identical. the ASTM website.

*A Summary of Changes section appears at the end of this standard

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States

1
 D2887 − 16a
E516 Practice for Testing Thermal Conductivity Detectors in order of increasing boiling point. The column temperature is
Used in Gas Chromatography raised at a reproducible linear rate and the area under the
E594 Practice for Testing Flame Ionization Detectors Used chromatogram is recorded throughout the analysis. Boiling
in Gas or Supercritical Fluid Chromatography points are assigned to the time axis from a calibration curve
obtained under the same chromatographic conditions by ana-
3. Terminology lyzing a known mixture of hydrocarbons covering the boiling
3.1 Definitions—This test method makes reference to many range expected in the sample. From these data, the boiling
common gas chromatographic procedures, terms, and relation- range distribution can be obtained.
ships. Detailed definitions of these can be found in Practices 4.2 Procedure A and Procedure B yield essentially the same
E260, E355, and E594. results. See Sections 14 and 23, and the accompanying research
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard: reports.
3.2.1 area slice, n—the area, resulting from the integration
5. Significance and Use
of the chromatographic detector signal, within a specified
retention time interval. In area slice mode (see 6.3.2), peak 5.1 The boiling range distribution of petroleum fractions
detection parameters are bypassed and the detector signal provides an insight into the composition of feedstocks and
integral is recorded as area slices of consecutive, fixed duration products related to petroleum refining processes. The gas
time intervals. chromatographic simulation of this determination can be used
to replace conventional distillation methods for control of
3.2.2 corrected area slice, n—an area slice corrected for
refining operations. This test method can be used for product
baseline offset, by subtraction of the exactly corresponding
specification testing with the mutual agreement of interested
area slice in a previously recorded blank (non-sample) analy-
parties.
sis.
3.2.3 cumulative corrected area, n—the accumulated sum of 5.2 Boiling range distributions obtained by this test method
corrected area slices from the beginning of the analysis through are essentially equivalent to those obtained by true boiling
a given retention time, ignoring any non-sample area (for point (TBP) distillation (see Test Method D2892). They are not
example, solvent). equivalent to results from low efficiency distillations such as
those obtained with Test Method D86 or D1160.
3.2.4 final boiling point (FBP), n—the temperature (corre-
sponding to the retention time) at which a cumulative corrected 5.3 Procedure B was tested with biodiesel mixtures and
area count equal to 99.5 % of the total sample area under the reports the Boiling Point Distribution of FAME esters of
chromatogram is obtained. vegetable and animal origin mixed with ultra low sulfur diesel.
3.2.5 initial boiling point (IBP), n—the temperature (corre- Procedure A
sponding to the retention time) at which a cumulative corrected
area count equal to 0.5 % of the total sample area under the 6. Apparatus
chromatogram is obtained. 6.1 Chromatograph—The gas chromatograph used must
3.2.6 slice rate, n—the time interval used to integrate the have the following performance characteristics:
continuous (analog) chromatographic detector response during 6.1.1 Detector—Either a flame ionization or a thermal
an analysis. The slice rate is expressed in hertz (for example, conductivity detector may be used. The detector must have
integrations or slices per second). sufficient sensitivity to detect 1.0 % dodecane with a peak
3.2.7 slice time, n—the time associated with the end of each height of at least 10 % of full scale on the recorder under
contiguous area slice. The slice time is equal to the slice conditions prescribed in this test method and without loss of
number divided by the slice rate. resolution as defined in 9.3.1. When operating at this sensitiv-
ity level, detector stability must be such that a baseline drift of
3.2.8 total sample area, n—the cumulative corrected area, not more than 1 % of full scale per hour is obtained. The
from the initial area point to the final area point, where the detector must be capable of operating continuously at a
chromatographic signal is considered to have returned to temperature equivalent to the maximum column temperature
baseline after complete sample elution. employed. Connection of the column to the detector must be
3.3 Abbreviations: such that no temperature below the column temperature exists.
3.3.1 A common abbreviation of hydrocarbon compounds is
NOTE 2—It is not desirable to operate a thermal conductivity detector at
to designate the number of carbon atoms in the compound. A a temperature higher than the maximum column temperature employed.
prefix is used to indicate the carbon chain form, while a Operation at higher temperature generally contributes to higher noise
subscripted suffix denotes the number of carbon atoms (for levels and greater drift and can shorten the useful life of the detector.
example, normal decane = n-C10; isotetradecane = i-C14). 6.1.2 Column Temperature Programmer—The chromato-
graph must be capable of linear programmed temperature
4. Summary of Test Method operation over a range sufficient to establish a retention time of
4.1 The boiling range distribution determination by distilla- at least 1 min for the IBP and to elute compounds up to a
tion is simulated by the use of gas chromatography. A nonpolar boiling temperature of 538 °C (1000 °F) before reaching the
packed or open tubular (capillary) gas chromatographic col- upper end of the temperature program. The programming rate
umn is used to elute the hydrocarbon components of the sample must be sufficiently reproducible to obtain retention time

2
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE 1 Typical Operating Conditions
Packed Columns 1 2 3 4 Open Tubular Columns 5 6 7
Column length, m (ft) 1.2 (4) 1.5 (5) 0.5 (1.5) 0.6 (2) Column length (m) 7.5 5 10
Column outside diameter, mm 6.4 (1/4) 3.2 (1/8) 3.2 (1/8) 6.4 (1/8) Column inner diameter (mm) 0.53 0.53 0.53
(in.)
Liquid phase OV-1 SE-30 UC-W98 SE-30 Stationary phase DB-1 HP-1 HP-1
Percent liquid phase 3 5 10 10 Stationary phase thickness 1.5 0.88 2.65
(m)
Support material SA GB PC PC Carrier gas nitrogen helium helium
Support mesh size 60/80 60/80 80/100 60/80 Carrier gas flow rate, mL/min 30 12 12
Initial column temperature, °C −20 −40 −30 −50 Initial column temperature, °C 40 35 35
Final column temperature, °C 360 350 360 390 Final column temperature, °C 340 350 350
Programming rate,°C/min 10 6.5 10 7.5 Programming rate, °C/min 10 10 20
Carrier gas helium helium N2 helium Detector FID FID FID
Carrier gas flow, mL/min 40 30 25 60 Detector temperature, °C 350 380 370
Detector TC FID FID TC Injector temperature, °C 340 cool on-column cool on-column
Detector temperature, °C 360 370 360 390 Sample size, µL 0.5 1 0.1–0.2
Injection port temperature, °C 360 370 350 390 Sample concentration mass % 25 2 neat
Sample size, µ 4 0.3 1 5
A
Diatoport S; silane treated.
B
Chromosorb G (AW-DMS).
C
Chromosorb P, acid washed.

repeatability of 0.1 min (6 s) for each component in the 6.2 Column—Any column and conditions may be used that
calibration mixture described in 7.8. provide separation of typical petroleum hydrocarbons in order
6.1.3 Cryogenic Column Cooling—Column starting tem- of increasing boiling point and meet the column performance
peratures below ambient will be required if samples with IBPs requirements of 9.3.1 and 9.3.3. Successfully used columns
of less than 93 °C (200 °F) are to be analyzed. This is typically and conditions are given in Table 1.
provided by adding a source of either liquid carbon dioxide or
liquid nitrogen, controlled through the oven temperature cir- 6.3 Data Acquisition System:
cuitry. Excessively low initial column temperature must be 6.3.1 Recorder—A 0 mV to 1 mV range recording potenti-
avoided to ensure that the stationary phase remains liquid. The ometer or equivalent, with a full-scale response time of 2 s or
initial temperature of the column should be only low enough to less may be used.
obtain a calibration curve meeting the specifications of the 6.3.2 Integrator—Means must be provided for determining
method. the accumulated area under the chromatogram. This can be
6.1.4 Sample Inlet System—The sample inlet system must done by means of an electronic integrator or computer-based
be capable of operating continuously at a temperature equiva- chromatography data system. The integrator/computer system
lent to the maximum column temperature employed, or provide
must have normal chromatographic software for measuring the
for on-column injection with some means of programming the
retention time and areas of eluting peaks (peak detection
entire column, including the point of sample introduction, up to
mode). In addition, the system must be capable of converting
the maximum temperature required. Connection of the column
to the sample inlet system must be such that no temperature the continuously integrated detector signal into area slices of
below the column temperature exists. fixed duration. These contiguous area slices, collected for the
6.1.5 Flow Controllers—The gas chromatograph must be entire analysis, are stored for later processing. The electronic
equipped with mass flow controllers capable of maintaining range of the integrator/computer (for example, 1 V, 10 V) must
carrier gas flow constant to 61 % over the full operating be within the linear range of the detector/electrometer system
temperature range of the column. The inlet pressure of the used. The system must be capable of subtracting the area slice
carrier gas supplied to the gas chromatograph must be suffi- of a blank run from the corresponding area slice of a sample
ciently high to compensate for the increase in column back- run.
pressure as the column temperature is raised. An inlet pressure
NOTE 4—Some gas chromatographs have an algorithm built into their
of 550 kPa (80 psig) has been found satisfactory with the operating software that allows a mathematical model of the baseline
packed columns described in Table 1. For open tubular profile to be stored in memory. This profile is automatically subtracted
columns, inlet pressures from 10 kPa to 70 kPa (1.5 psig to from the detector signal on subsequent sample analyses to compensate for
10 psig) have been found to be suitable. any baseline offset. Some integration systems also store and automatically
6.1.6 Microsyringe—A microsyringe is needed for sample subtract a blank analysis from subsequent analytical determinations.
introduction.
7. Reagents and Materials
NOTE 3—Automatic sampling devices or other sampling means, such as
indium encapsulation, can be used provided: the system can be operated 7.1 Purity of Reagents—Reagent grade chemicals shall be
at a temperature sufficiently high to completely vaporize hydrocarbons
used in all tests. Unless otherwise indicated, it is intended that
with atmospheric boiling points of 538 °C (1000 °F), and the sampling
system is connected to the chromatographic column avoiding any cold all reagents conform to the specifications of the Committee on
temperature zones. Analytical Reagents of the American Chemical Society where

3
 D2887 − 16a
such specifications are available.4 Other grades may be used, TABLE 2 Boiling Points of Normal ParaffinsA, B, C

provided it is first ascertained that the reagent is of sufficiently Carbon Boiling Boiling Carbon Boiling Boiling
Number Point, °C Point, °F Number Point, °C Point, °F
high purity to permit its use without lessening the accuracy of
1 −162 −259 23 380 716
the determination. 2 −89 −127 24 391 736
7.2 Liquid Phase for Columns—Methyl silicone gums and 3 −42 −44 25 402 755
4 0 31 26 412 774
liquids provide the proper chromatographic hydrocarbon elu- 5 36 97 27 422 791
tion characteristics for this test method. 6 69 156 28 431 808
7 98 209 29 440 825
7.3 Solid Support for Packed Columns—Chromatographic 8 126 258 30 449 840
grade diatomateous earth solid support material within a 9 151 303 31 458 856
10 174 345 32 466 870
particle size range from 60 to 100 sieve mesh size is recom- 11 196 385 33 474 885
mended. 12 216 421 34 481 898
13 235 456 35 489 912
7.4 Carrier Gas—Helium or nitrogen of high purity. 14 254 488 36 496 925
(Warning—Helium and nitrogen are compressed gases under 15 271 519 37 503 937
high pressure.) Additional purification is recommended by the 16 287 548 38 509 948
17 302 576 39 516 961
use of molecular sieves or other suitable agents to remove 18 316 601 40 522 972
water, oxygen, and hydrocarbons. Available pressure must be 19 330 626 41 528 982
sufficient to ensure a constant carrier gas flow rate (see 6.1.5). 20 344 651 42 534 993
21 356 674 43 540 1004
7.5 Hydrogen—Hydrogen of high purity (for example, hy- 22 369 695 44 545 1013
drocarbon free) is used as fuel for the flame ionization detector A
API Project 44, October 31, 1972 is believed to have provided the original normal
(FID). (Warning—Hydrogen is an extremely flammable gas paraffin boiling point data that are listed in Table 2. However, over the years some
of the data contained in both API Project 44 (Thermodynamics Research Center
under high pressure.) Hydrocarbon Project) and Test Method D2887 have changed, and they are no
longer equivalent. Table 2 represents the current normal paraffin boiling point
7.6 Air—High purity (for example, hydrocarbon free) com- values accepted by Subcommittee D02.04 and found in all test methods under the
pressed air is used as the oxidant for the flame ionization jurisdiction of Section D02.04.0H.
B
detector (FID). (Warning—Compressed air is a gas under high Test Method D2887 has traditionally used n-paraffin boiling points rounded to the
nearest whole degree for calibration. The boiling points listed in Table 2 are correct
pressure and supports combustion.) to the nearest whole number in both degrees Celsius and degrees Fahrenheit.
However, if a conversion is made from one unit to the other and then rounded to
7.7 Column Resolution Test Mixture—For packed columns, a whole number, the result will not agree with the table value for a few carbon
a nominal mixture of 1 mass % each of n-C16 and n-C18 numbers. For example, the boiling point of n-heptane is 98.425 °C, which is
paraffin in a suitable solvent, such as n-octane, for use in correctly rounded to 98 °C in the table. However, converting 98.425 °C gives
209.165 °F, which rounds to 209 °F, while converting 98 °C gives 208.4 °F, which
testing the column resolution. (Warning—n-octane is flam- rounds to 208 °F. Carbon numbers 2, 4, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 16, 25, 27, and 32 are
mable and harmful if inhaled.) The calibration mixture speci- affected by rounding.
C
fied in 7.8.2 may be used as a suitable alternative, provided the Table X6.1 lists the current boiling points of n-paraffins approved by API.
concentrations of the n-C16 and n-C18 components are nomi-
nally 1.0 mass % each. For open tubular columns, use the
mixture specified in 7.8.3.
7.8 Calibration Mixture—An accurately weighed mixture of NOTE 5—Calibration mixtures containing normal paraffins with the
approximately equal mass quantities of n-hydrocarbons dis- carbon numbers 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 20, 24, 28, 32,
solved in carbon disulfide (CS2). (Warning—Carbon disulfide 36, 40, and 44 have been found to provide a sufficient number of points to
is extremely volatile, flammable, and toxic.) The mixture shall generate a reliable calibration curve.
cover the boiling range from n-C5 to n-C44, but does not need 7.8.2 Packed Columns—The final concentration should be
to include every carbon number (see Note 5). approximately ten parts of the n-paraffin mixture to one
7.8.1 At least one compound in the mixture must have a hundred parts of CS2.
boiling point lower than the IBP of the sample and at least one
compound in the mixture must have a boiling point higher than 7.8.3 Open Tubular Columns—The final concentration
the FBP of the sample. Boiling points of n-paraffins are listed should be approximately one part of the n-paraffin mixture to
in Table 2. one hundred parts of CS2.
7.8.1.1 If necessary, for the calibration mixture to have a 7.9 Reference Gas Oil No. 1 or No. 2—A reference sample
compound with a boiling point below the IBP of the sample, that has been analyzed by laboratories participating in the test
propane or butane can be added to the calibration mixture, method cooperative study. Consensus values for the boiling
non-quantitatively, by bubbling the gaseous compound into the range distribution of this sample are given in Tables 3 and 4.
calibration mixture in a septum sealed vial using a gas syringe.
8. Sampling
4
Reagent Chemicals, American Chemical Society Specifications, American
8.1 Samples to be analyzed by this test method must be
Chemical Society, Washington, DC. For Suggestions on the testing of reagents not
listed by the American Chemical Society, see Annual Standards for Laboratory obtained using the procedures outlined in Practice D4057.
Chemicals, BDH Ltd., Poole, Dorset, U.K., and the United States Pharmacopeia
and National Formulary, U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention, Inc. (USPC), Rockville, 8.2 The test specimen to be analyzed must be homogeneous
MD. and free of dust or undissolved material.

4
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE 3 Test Method D2887 Reference Gas Oil No. 1A
Batch 1 Allowable Difference Batch 2 Allowable Difference
% Off
°C °F °C °F °C °F °C °F
IBP 114 238 7.5 13.6 115 240 7.6 13.7
5 143 289 3.6 6.6 151 304 3.8 6.8
10 169 336 4.0 7.3 176 348 4.1 7.4
15 196 384 4.4 8.0 201 393 4.5 8.1
20 221 429 4.8 8.7 224 435 4.9 8.7
25 243 470
30 258 496 4.7 8.4 259 499 4.7 8.4
35 275 527
40 287 548 4.3 7.7 289 552 4.3 7.7
45 302 576
50 312 594 4.3 7.7 312 594 4.3 7.7
55 321 611 4.3 7.7
60 332 629 4.3 7.7 332 629 4.3 7.7
65 343 649 4.3 7.7 343 649 4.3 7.7
70 354 669 4.3 7.7 354 668 4.3 7.7
75 364 688 4.3 7.7 365 690 4.3 7.7
80 376 709 4.3 7.7 378 712 4.3 7.7
85 389 732 4.3 7.7 391 736 4.3 7.7
90 404 759 4.3 7.7 407 764 4.3 7.7
95 425 797 5.0 9.0 428 803 5.0 9.0
FBP 475 887 11.8 21.2 475 888 11.8 21.2
A
Consensus results for Batch 2 obtained from 30 laboratories in 1995 (supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may be obtained by
requesting Research Report RR:D02-1407).

TABLE 4 Test Method D2887 Reference Gas Oil No. 2A

Allowable Difference Allowable Difference
% Off °C °F °C °F
IBP 106 223 7.0 12.6
5 173 343 4.1 7.4
10 196 384 4.4 8.0
15 216 420 4.7 8.5
20 233 452 5.0 9.0
25 251 483 ... ...
30 267 512 4.8 8.6
35 283 541 ... ...
40 298 568 4.3 7.7
45 310 590 ... ...
50 321 610 4.3 7.7
55 331 629 4.3 7.7
60 342 647 4.3 7.7
65 350 662 4.3 7.7
70 358 677 4.3 7.7
75 368 694 4.3 7.7
80 378 712 4.3 7.7
85 390 734 4.3 7.7
90 406 763 4.3 7.7
95 431 808 5.0 9.0
FBP 496 925 11.8 21.2
A
Consensus results for Reference Gas Oil No. 2 obtained from 32 laboratories in 2009.

9. Preparation of Apparatus hours will minimize this problem. A recommended practice is

9.1 Chromatograph—Place in service in accordance with to change the septum at the end of a series of analyses rather
the manufacturer’s instructions. Typical operating conditions than at the beginning of the series.
are shown in Table 1. 9.2 Column Preparation:
9.1.1 When a FID is used, regularly remove the deposits
9.2.1 Packed Columns—Any satisfactory method that will
formed in the detector from combustion of the silicone liquid
produce a column meeting the requirements of 9.3.1 and 9.3.3
phase decomposition products. These deposits will change the
response characteristics of the detector. can be used. In general, use liquid phase loadings of 3 % to
9.1.2 If the sample inlet system is heated above 300 °C 10 %. Condition the column at the maximum operating tem-
(572 °F), a blank analysis must be made after a new septum is perature to reduce baseline shifts due to bleeding of the column
installed to ensure that no extraneous detector response is substrate. The column can be conditioned very rapidly and
produced by septum bleed. At the sensitivity levels commonly effectively using the following procedure:
employed in this test method, conditioning of the septum at the 9.2.1.1 Connect the column to the inlet but leave the
operating temperature of the sample inlet system for several detector end free.

5
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 1 Column Resolution Parameters

9.2.1.2 Purge the column thoroughly at ambient temperature 9.2.2.3 Cycle the gas chromatograph several times through
with carrier gas. its temperature program until a stable baseline is obtained.
9.2.1.3 Turn off the carrier gas and allow the column to 9.3 System Performance Specification:
depressurize completely.
9.3.1 Column Resolution—The column resolution, influ-
9.2.1.4 Seal off the open end (detector) of the column with
enced by both the column physical parameters and operating
an appropriate fitting.
conditions, affects the overall determination of boiling range
9.2.1.5 Raise the column temperature to the maximum
distribution. Resolution is therefore specified to maintain
operating temperature.
equivalence between different systems (laboratories) employ-
9.2.1.6 Hold the column at this temperature for at least 1 h
ing this test method. Resolution is determined using Eq 1 and
with no flow through the column.
the C16 and C18 paraffins from a column resolution test mixture
9.2.1.7 Cool the column to ambient temperature.
analysis (see 7.7 and Section 10), and is illustrated in Fig. 1.
9.2.1.8 Remove the cap from the detector end of the column
Resolution (R) should be at least three, using the identical
and turn the carrier gas back on.
conditions employed for sample analyses:
9.2.1.9 Program the column temperature up to the maxi-
mum several times with normal carrier gas flow. Connect the R 5 2 ~ t 2 2 t 1 ! / @ 1.699~ w 2 1w 1 ! # (1)
free end of the column to the detector. where:
9.2.1.10 An alternative method of column conditioning that
R = resolution,
has been found effective for columns with an initial loading of
t1 = time(s) for the n-C16 peak maximum,
10 % liquid phase consists of purging the column with carrier t2 = time(s) for the n-C18 peak maximum,
gas at the normal flow rate while holding the column at the w1 = peak width(s), at half height, of the n-C16 peak, and
maximum operating temperature for 12 h to 16 h, while de- w2 = peak width(s), at half height, of the n-C18 peak.
tached from the detector.
9.2.2 Open Tubular Columns—Open tubular columns with 9.3.2 Detector Response Calibration—This test method as-
cross-linked and bonded stationary phases are available from sumes that the detector response to petroleum hydrocarbons is
many manufacturers and are usually pre-conditioned. These proportional to the mass of individual components. This must
columns have much lower column bleed than packed columns. be verified when the system is put in service, and whenever any
Column conditioning is less critical with these columns but changes are made to the system or operational parameters.
some conditioning may be necessary. The column can be Analyze the calibration mixture using the identical procedure
conditioned very rapidly and effectively using the following to be used for the analysis of samples (see Section 10).
procedure. Calculate the relative response factor for each n-paraffin
9.2.2.1 Once the open tubular column has been properly (relative to n-decane) in accordance with Practice D4626 and
installed into the gas chromatograph and tested to be leak free, Eq 2:
set the column and detector gas flows. Before heating the F n 5 ~ M n /A n ! / ~ M 10/A 10! (2)
column, allow the system to purge with carrier gas at ambient
where:
temperature for at least 30 min.
9.2.2.2 Increase the oven temperature about 5 °C to 10 °C Fn = relative response factor,
per minute to the final operating temperature and hold for about Mn = mass of the n-paraffin in the mixture,
An = peak area of the n-paraffin in the mixture,
30 min.

6
 D2887 − 16a

M10 = mass of the n-decane in the mixture, and of a sample sequence to provide additional data regarding
A10 = peak area of the n-decane in the mixture. instrument operation or residual sample carryover from previ-
The relative response factor (Fn) of each n-paraffin must not ous sample analyses. Attention must be given to all factors that
deviate from unity (1) by more than 610 %. influence baseline stability, such as column bleed, septum
9.3.3 Column Elution Characteristics—The column bleed, detector temperature control, constancy of carrier gas
material, stationary phase, or other parameters can affect the flow, leaks, instrument drift, and so forth. Periodic baseline
elution order of non-paraffinic sample components, resulting in blank analyses should be made, following the analysis se-
deviations from a TBP versus retention time relationship. If quence protocol, to give an indication of baseline stability.
stationary phases other than those referenced in 7.3 are used, NOTE 6—If automatic baseline correction (see Note 4) is provided by
the retention times of a few alkylbenzenes (for example, the gas chromatograph, further correction of area slices may not be
o-xylene, n-butyl-benzene, 1,3,5-triisopropylbenzene, n-decyl- required. However, if an electronic offset is added to the signal after
baseline compensation, additional area slice correction may be required in
benzene, and tetradecylbenzene) across the boiling range the form of offset subtraction. Consult the specific instrumentation
should be analyzed to make certain that the column is instructions to determine if an offset is applied to the signal. If the
separating in accordance with the boiling point order (see algorithm used is unclear, the slice area data can be examined to determine
Appendix X1). if further correction is necessary. Determine if any offset has been added
to the compensated signal by examining the corrected area slices of those
10. Calibration and Standardization time slices that precede the elution of any chromatographic unretained
substance. If these corrected area slices (representing the true baseline)
10.1 Analysis Sequence Protocol—Define and use a prede- deviate from zero, subtract the average of these corrected area slices from
termined schedule of analysis events designed to achieve each corrected area slice in the analysis.
maximum reproducibility for these determinations. The sched- 10.3 Retention Time Versus Boiling Point Calibration —In
ule will include cooling the column oven to the initial starting order to analyze samples, a retention time versus boiling point
temperature, equilibration time, sample injection and system calibration must be performed. Inject an appropriate aliquot
start, analysis, and final upper temperature hold time. (0.2 µL to 2.0 µL) of the calibration mixture (see 7.8) into the
10.1.1 After chromatographic conditions have been set to chromatograph, using the analysis sequence protocol. Obtain a
meet performance requirements, program the column tempera- normal (peak detection) data record in order to determine the
ture upward to the maximum temperature to be used and hold peak retention times and the peak areas for each component.
that temperature for the selected time. Following the analysis Collect a time slice area record if a boiling range distribution
sequence protocol, cool the column to the initial starting report is desired.
temperature. 10.3.1 Inspect the chromatogram of the calibration mixture
10.1.2 During the cool down and equilibration time, ready for evidence of skewed (non-Gaussian shaped) peaks. Skew-
the integrator/computer system. If a retention time or detector ness is often an indication of overloading the sample capacity
response calibration is being performed, use the peak detection of the column that will result in displacement of the peak apex
mode. For samples and baseline compensation determinations, relative to nonoverloaded peaks. Distortion in retention time
use the area slice mode of integration. The recommended slice measurement and hence errors in boiling point temperature
rate for this test method is given in 12.1.2. Other slice rates determination will be likely if column overloading occurs. The
may be used if within the limits of 0.02 % and 0.2 % of the column liquid phase loading has a direct bearing on acceptable
retention time of the final calibration component (C44). Larger sample size. Reanalyze the calibration mixture using a smaller
slice rates may be used, as may be required for other reasons, sample size or a more dilute solution to avoid peak distortion.
if provision is made to accumulate (bunch) the slice data to 10.3.2 Prepare a calibration table based upon the results of
within these limits prior to determination of the boiling range the analysis of the calibration mixture by recording the time of
distribution. each peak maximum and the boiling point temperature in
10.1.3 At the exact time set by the schedule, inject either the degrees Celsius (or Fahrenheit) for every component in the
calibration mixture or sample into the chromatograph; or make mixture. n-Paraffin boiling point temperatures are listed in
no injection (baseline blank). At the time of injection, start the Table 2.
chromatograph time cycle and the integrator/computer data 10.3.3 Plot the retention time of each peak versus the
acquisition. Follow the analysis sequence protocol for all corresponding normal boiling point temperature of that com-
subsequent repetitive analyses or calibrations. Since complete ponent in degrees Celsius (or Fahrenheit) as shown in Fig. 2.
resolution of sample peaks is not expected, do not change the 10.3.4 Ideally, the retention time versus boiling point tem-
detector sensitivity setting during the analysis. perature calibration plot would be linear, but it is impractical to
10.2 Baseline Compensation Analysis—A baseline compen- operate the chromatograph such that curvature is eliminated
sation analysis, or baseline blank, is performed exactly like an completely. The greatest potential for deviation from linearity
analysis except no injection is made. A blank analysis must be will be associated with the lower boiling point paraffins. They
performed at least once per day. The blank analysis is neces- will elute from the column relatively fast and have the largest
sary due to the usual occurrence of chromatographic baseline difference in boiling point temperature. In general, the lower
instability and is subtracted from sample analyses to remove the sample IBP, the lower will be the starting temperature of
any nonsample slice area from the chromatographic data. The the analysis. Although extrapolation of the curve at the upper
blank analysis is typically performed prior to sample analyses, end is more accurate, calibration points must bracket the
but may be useful if determined between samples or at the end boiling range of the sample at both the low and high ends.

7
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 2 Typical Calibration Curve

10.4 Reference Gas Oil Analysis—The Reference Gas Oil 11.1.1 The amount of sample injected must not overload the
sample is used to verify both the chromatographic and calcu- column stationary phase nor exceed the detector linear range. A
lation processes involved in this test method. Perform an narrow boiling range sample will require a smaller amount
analysis of the gas oil following the analysis sequence proto- injected than a wider boiling range sample.
col. Collect the area slice data and provide a boiling point 11.1.1.1 To determine the detector linear range, refer to
distribution report as in Sections 12 and 13. Practice E594 for flame ionization detectors or Practice E516
10.4.1 The results of this reference analysis must agree with for thermal conductivity detectors.
the values given in Table 3 within the range specified by the
test method reproducibility (see 14.1.2). If it does not meet the 11.1.1.2 The column stationary phase capacity can be esti-
criteria in Table 3, check that all hardware is operating properly mated from the chromatogram of the calibration mixture (see
and all instrument settings are as recommended by the manu- 9.3.2). Different volumes of the calibration standard can be
facturer. Rerun the retention boiling point calibration as de- injected to find the maximum amount of a component that the
scribed in 10.3. stationary phase can tolerate without overloading (see 10.3.1).
10.4.2 Perform this reference gas oil confirmation test at Note the peak height for this amount of sample. The maximum
least once per day or as often as required to establish sample signal intensity should not exceed this peak height.
confidence in consistent compliance with 10.4.1. 11.1.2 Samples that are of low enough viscosity to be
sampled with a syringe at ambient temperature may be injected
11. Procedure neat. This type of sample may also be diluted with CS2 to
11.1 Sample Preparation: control the amount of sample injected to comply with 11.1.1.

8
 D2887 − 16a
11.1.3 Samples that are too viscous or waxy to sample with 12.2.1.2 Subtract the average slice offset from all the slices
a syringe may be diluted with CS2. of the sample chromatogram. Set negative slices to zero. This
11.1.4 Typical sample injection volumes are listed below. will zero the chromatogram.
Packed Columns: 12.2.2 Blank Offset:
Stationary Phase Loading, % Neat Sample Volume, µL
10 1.0 NOTE 7—If you are using electronic baseline compensation proceed to
5 0.5 12.4. It is strongly recommended that the offset method use the slices
Open Tubular Columns: acquired by running a blank with or without solvent according on how the
Film Thickness, µ Neat Sample Volume, µL sample was prepared. Use these acquired blank slices for the offset or zero
0.8 to 1.5 0.1 to 0.2 calculations.
1.8 to 3.0 0.1 to 0.5
3.0 to 5.0 0.2 to 1.0 12.2.2.1 Repeat 12.2.1 using the blank run table.
11.2 Sample Analysis—Using the analysis sequence 12.3 Offset the Sample Chromatogram with Blank
protocol, inject a sample aliquot into the gas chromatograph. Chromatogram—Subtract from each slice in the sample chro-
Collect a contiguous time slice area record of the entire matogram table with its correspondent slice in the blank run
analysis. chromatogram table. Set negative slices to zero.
12.4 Determine the Start of Sample Elution Time:
12. Calculations5
12.4.1 Calculate the Total Area—Add all the corrected
12.1 Acquisition Rate Requirements: slices in the table. If the sample to be analyzed has a solvent
12.1.1 The number of slices required at the beginning of peak, start counting area from the point at which the solvent
data acquisition depends on chromatographic variables such as peak has eluted completely. Otherwise, start at the first cor-
the column flow, column film thickness, and initial column rected slice.
temperature as well as column length. In addition the detector 12.4.2 Calculate the Rate of Change between each Two
signal level has to be as low as possible at the initial Consecutive Area Slices—Begin at the slice set in 12.4.1 and
temperature of the analysis. The detector signal level for both work forward. The rate of change is obtained by subtracting the
the sample signal and the blank at the beginning of the run has area of a slice from the area of the immediately preceding slice
to be similar for proper zeroing of the signals. and dividing by the slice width. The time where the rate of
12.1.2 The sampling frequency has to be adjusted so that at change first exceeds 1×10–5 % per second of the total area (see
least a significant number of slices are acquired prior to the 12.4.1) is defined as the start of the sample elution time. To
start of elution of sample or solvent. For example, if the time reduce the possibility of noise or an electronic spike falsely
for start of sample elution is 0.06 min (3.6 s), a sampling rate indicating the start of sample elution time, a 1 s slice average
of 5 Hz would acquire 18 slices. However a rate of 1 Hz would can be used instead of a single slice. For noisier baselines, a
only acquire 3.6 slices which would not be sufficient for slice average larger than 1 s may be required.
zeroing the signals. Rather than specifying number of slices, it
12.5 Determine the End of Sample Elution Time:
is important to select an initial time segment that is, one or two
12.5.1 Calculate the Rate of Change between each Two
seconds. Ensure that the smallest number of slices is 5 or
Consecutive Area Slices—Begin at the end of run and work
greater.
backward. The rate of change is obtained by subtracting the
12.1.3 Verify that the slice width used to acquire the sample
area of a slice from the area of the immediately preceding slice
chromatogram is the same used to acquire the blank run
and dividing by the slice width. The time where the rate of
chromatogram.
change first exceeds 1×10–5 % per second of the total area (see
12.2 Chromatograms Offset for Sample and Blank— 12.4.1) is defined as the end of sample elution time. To reduce
Perform a slice offset for the sample chromatogram and blank the possibility of noise or an electronic spike falsely indicating
chromatogram. This operation is necessary so that the signal is the end of sample elution a 1 s slice average can be used
corrected from its displacement from the origin. This is instead of a single slice. For noisier baselines a slice average
achieved by determining an average slice offset from the slices larger than 1 s may be required.
accumulated in the first segment (that is, first s) and performing
12.6 Calculate the Sample Total Area—Add all the slices
a standard deviation calculation for the first N slices accumu-
from the slice corresponding to the start of sample elution time
lated. It is carried out for both sample signal and baseline
to the slice corresponding to the end of sample elution time.
signal.
12.2.1 Sample Offset: 12.7 Normalize to Area Percent—Divide each slice in the
12.2.1.1 Calculate the average slice offset of sample chro- sample chromatogram table by the total area (see 12.6) and
matogram using the first second of acquired slices. Insure that multiply it by 100.
no sample has eluted during this time and that the number of 12.8 Calculate the Boiling Point Distribution Table:
slices acquired is at least 5. Throw out any of the first N slices 12.8.1 Initial Boiling Point—Add slices in the sample chro-
selected that are not within one standard deviation of the matogram until the sum is equal to or greater than 0.5 %. If the
average and recompute the average. This eliminates any area sum is greater than 0.5 %, interpolate (refer to the algorithm in
that is due to possible baseline upset from injection. 12.9.1) to determine the time that will generate the exact 0.5 %
of the area. Calculate the boiling point temperature correspond-
5
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may ing to this slice time using the calibration table. Use interpo-
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1477. lation when required (refer to the algorithm in 12.9.2).

9
 D2887 − 16a
12.8.2 Final Boiling Point—Add slices in the sample chro- retention time equal to or larger than the interpolation time.
matogram until the sum is equal to or greater than 99.5 %. If (Warning—The retention time table shall be sorted in ascend-
the sum is greater than 99.5 %, interpolate (refer to the ing order.)
algorithm in 12.9.1) to determine the time that will generate the 12.9.2.2 If the interpolation time is equal to the retention
exact 99.5 % of the area. Calculate the boiling point tempera- time of the standard, record the corresponding boiling point.
ture corresponding to this slice time using the calibration table. 12.9.2.3 If the retention time is not equal to the retention
Use interpolation when required (refer to the algorithm in time of the standards (see 9.3), interpolate the boiling point
12.9.2). temperature as follows:
12.8.3 Intermediate Boiling Point—For each point between
12.9.2.4 If the interpolation time is less than the first
1 % and 99 %, find the time where the accumulative sum is
retention time in the calibration table, then extrapolate using
equal to or greater than the area percent being analyzed. As in
the first two components in the table:
12.8.1 and 12.8.2, use interpolation when the accumulated sum
exceeds the area percent to be estimated (refer to the algorithm BP x 5 m 1 · ~ RT x 2 RT 1 ! 1BP 1 (6)
in 12.9.1). Use the calibration table to assign the boiling point. where:
12.9 Calculations Algorithms: m1 = (BP2 – BP1) / (RT2 – RT1),
12.9.1 Calculations to determine the exact point in time that BPx = boiling point extrapolated,
will generate the X percent of total area, where X = 0.5, 1, 2, RTx = retention time to be extrapolated,
..., 99.5 %. RT1 = retention time of the first component in the calibration
12.9.1.1 Record the time of the slice just prior to the slice table,
that will generate an accumulative slice area larger than the X BP1 = boiling point of the first component in the calibration
percent of the total area. Let us call this time, Ts, and the table,
accumulative area at this point, Ac. RT2 = retention time of the second component in the cali-
12.9.1.2 Calculate the fraction of the slice required to bration table, and
produce the exact X percent of the total area: BP2 = boiling point of the second component in the calibra-
tion table.
X2 A c
Ax 5 (3)
A c11 2 A c 12.9.2.5 If the interpolation time is between two retention
times in the calibration table, then interpolate using the upper
where:
and lower standard components:
Ax = fraction of the slice that will yield the exact percent,
Ac = cumulative percent up to the slice prior to X, BP x 5 m u · ~ RT x 2 RT 1 ! 1BP 1 (7)
Ac+1 = cumulative percent up to the slice right after X, and where:
X = desired cumulative percent.
mu = (BPu – BP1) / (RTu – RT1),
12.9.1.3 Calculate the time required to generate the fraction BPx = boiling point extrapolated,
of area Ax: RTx = retention time to be extrapolated,
T f 5 A x ·W (4)
RT1 = retention time of the lower bound component in the
calibration table,
where: BP1 = boiling point of the lower bound component in the
W = slice width, calibration table,
Ax = fraction of the slice that will yield the exact percent, RTu = retention time of the upper bound component in the
and calibration table, and
Tf = fraction of time that will yield Ax. BPu = boiling point of the upper bound component in the
calibration table.
12.9.1.4 Record the exact time where the accumulative area
is equal to the X percent of the total area: 12.9.2.6 If the interpolation time is larger than the last
T t 5 T s 1T f (5) retention time in the calibration table, then extrapolate using
the last two standard components in the table:
where:
BP x 5 m n · ~ RT x 2 RT n21 ! 1BP n21 (8)
Ts = fraction of the slice that yields the cumulative percent
up to the slice prior to X, where:
Tf = fraction of time that will yield Ax, and mn = (BPn – BPn – 1) / (RTn – RTn – 1),
Tt = time where the cumulative area is equal to X percent of BPx = boiling point extrapolated,
the total area. RTx = retention time to be extrapolated,
12.9.2 Interpolate to determine the exact boiling point given RTn – 1 = retention time of the standard component eluting
the retention time corresponding to the cumulative slice area. prior to the last component in the calibration table,
BPn – 1 = boiling point of the standard component eluting
12.9.2.1 Compare the given time against each retention time
prior to the last component in the calibration table,
in the calibration table. Select the nearest standard having a

10
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE 5 Repeatability TABLE 6 Reproducibility
NOTE 1—x = the average of the two results in °C and y = the average NOTE 1—x = the average of the two results in °C and y = the average
of the two results in °F. of the two results in °F.
Repeatability Reproducibility
% Off % Off
°C °F °C °F
IBP 0.011 x 0.011 (y − 32) IBP 0.066 x 0.066 (y − 32)
5% 0.0032 (x + 100) 0.0032 (y + 148) 5% 0.015 (x + 100) 0.015 (y + 148)
10 %–20 % 0.8 1.4 10 %–20 % 0.015 (x + 100) 0.015 (y + 148)
30 % 0.8 1.4 30 % 0.013 (x + 100) 0.013 (y + 148)
40 % 0.8 1.4 40 % 4.3 7.7
50 %–90 % 1.0 1.8 50 %–90 % 4.3 7.7
95 % 1.2 2.2 95 % 5.0 9.0
FBP 3.2 5.8 FBP 11.8 21.2

TABLE 7 Round Robin Range of Results

RTn = retention time of the last component in the cali-
% Off Range of Results, °C Range of Results, °F
bration table, and
BPn = boiling point of the standard component in the IBP 112–213 234–415
5% 133–286 271–547
calibration table. 10 % 139–312 282–594
20 % 151–341 304–646
13. Report 30 % 161–358 322–676
40 % 171–370 340–698
13.1 Report the temperature to the nearest 0.5 °C (1 °F) at 50 % 182–381 360–718
1 % intervals between 1 % and 99 % and at the IBP (0.5 %) 60 % 196–390 385–734
70 % 206–401 403–754
and the FBP (99.5 %). Other report formats based upon users’ 80 % 219–412 426–774
needs may be employed. 90 % 233–426 451–799
95 % 241–437 466–819
NOTE 8—If a plot of the boiling point distribution curve is desired, use FBP 274–475 525–887
a spreadsheet with uniform subdivisions and use either retention time or
temperature as the horizontal axis. The vertical axis will represent the
boiling range distribution (0 % to 100 %). Plot each boiling temperature
against its corresponding normalized percent. Draw a smooth curve interactions among the components (for example, azeotropic
connecting the points. behavior). Any other means used to define the distribution
14. Precision and Bias6 would require the use of a physical process, such as a
conventional distillation or gas chromatographic characteriza-
14.1 Precision—The precision of this test method as deter- tion. This would therefore result in a method-dependent
mined by the statistical examination of the interlaboratory test definition and would not constitute a true value from which
results is as follows: bias can be calculated.
14.1.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive
test results obtained by the same operator with the same Procedure B, Accelerated Method
apparatus under constant operating conditions on identical test
material would, in the long run, in the normal and correct 15. Introduction
operation of the test method, exceed the following values by 15.1 Procedure B was developed for carrying out Test
only one case in twenty (see Table 5). Method D2887 in an accelerated mode. By changing variables
14.1.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single such as carrier flow, oven heating and type of column, it is
and independent results obtained by different operators work- possible to significantly reduce the analysis time. The term
ing in different laboratories on identical test material would, in accelerated is used here to distinguish this technique from
the long run, exceed the following values only one case in ultrafast chromatography, which requires direct heating of the
twenty (see Table 6). column only. In addition, the precision study involved mixtures
NOTE 9—This precision estimate is based on the analysis of nine of ultra low sulfur diesel and B100. The need to use solvent for
samples by 19 laboratories using both packed and open tubular columns. sample dilution is not required.
The range of results found in the round robin are listed in Table 7.
15.2 Procedure B requires the use of a Flame Ionization
14.2 Bias—The procedure in Test Method D2887 for deter- detector only. Sections common to both procedures are refer-
mining the boiling range distribution of petroleum fractions by enced in Procedure B.
gas chromatography has no bias because the boiling range
distribution can only be defined in terms of a test method. 16. Apparatus
14.2.1 A rigorous, theoretical definition of the boiling range 16.1 Chromatograph—The gas chromatograph used shall
distribution of petroleum fractions is not possible due to the have the following performance characteristics:
complexity of the mixture as well as the unquantifiable 16.1.1 Detector—A flame ionization detector (FID) must be
used. The detector must have a Minimum Detectable Quantity
6
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may of 2.0 pg carbon/s for n-C13 or better. The detector requires a
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1406. sensitivity of 0.005C/g-0.010C/g of Carbon. Operating at this

11
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE 8 Typical Operating Parameters for Procedure B 16.1.5 Electronic Pneumatic Control—The gas chromato-
(Accelerated D2887) Test graph must be equipped with electronic flow controllers
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 capable of maintaining carrier gas flow constant to 61 % or
Column length 10 5 7.5 better over the full operating temperature range of the column.
(m)
Column ID (mm) 0.53 0.53 0.53
The flow control should be carried out by flow sensors rather
Stationary phase 0.88 2.65 1.5 that a calculated pressure program to maintain constant flow.
thickness (µm)A The carrier gas supply pressure must have at least a differential
Carrier gas helium helium helium
Carrier gas flow 26 35 37 of 135 kPa (20 psi) between the column pressure at 350 °C and
rate (mL/min) the gas supply pressure.
Initial column 60 40 40 (0.5 min)
temperature (°C)
16.1.6 Automatic Sample Injectors—The use of autosam-
Final column 360 350 360 plers equipped with a micro syringe capable of delivering
temperature (°C) 0.1 µL is required for reproducible retention time.
Oven program- 35 35 35
ming rate (°C/ 16.2 Column—Use one of the three columns listed in Table
min)
Detector FID FID FID
8. These columns contain Polydimethyl-Siloxane (PDMS) as
Detector tem- 360 360 365 the liquid phase. These columns elute n-paraffins hydrocarbons
perature (°C) according to boiling point.
Injector PTV PTV Cool on column
Injector initial 100 100 100 (0.5 min) 16.3 Data Acquisition System:
temperature (°C)
Injector program- 35 35 35 16.3.1 Computer—A computer with data acquisition soft-
ming rate (°C/ ware is necessary to control the instrument, perform the
min) injections, syringe washes, sample aspiration, sample
Injector final 360 350 350
temperature (°C) injections, and signal digitization and acquisition. The data
Sample size (µL) 0.1 0.1 0.1 acquisition software is operated in the peak processing mode
Dilution concen- neat neat neat and or in the slice mode.
tration
Analysis time 8 7.8 8 16.3.2 Simulated distillation calculations are carried out
(minutes) with software conforming to the algorithms specified in Sec-
A
All columns contain a polydimethylsiloxane stationary phase. tion 12.

17. Reagents and Materials

sensitivity level, detector stability must be such that a baseline
17.1 Calibration Mixture—An accurately weighed mixture
drift of not more than 10–12 to 10–13 A/h(Pico Amps/Hour).
of approximately equal mass quantities of n-hydrocarbons
This drift is measured as change in detector current per unit
dissolved in CS2.The total concentration of the hydrocarbons
time. The detector must be capable of operating continuously
must be approximately 1 mass % (Warning—CS2 is extremely
at a temperature equivalent to the maximum column tempera-
volatile, flammable, and toxic.) The mixture shall cover the
ture employed (see Table 8). Connection of the column to the
boiling range from n-C5 to n-C44, but it is not necessary to
detector must be such that no temperature below the column
include every carbon number (see Note 5, Procedure A,
temperature exists. It is recommended that the Flame Jet have
7.8.1.1).
an orifice of or (0.5 6 0.08 mm) in order to avoid premature
decrease of the flame tip orifice due to accumulation of column 17.1.1 The calibration mixture contains the normal paraffins
bleed substrate. with carbons numbers 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17,
16.1.2 Programmable Oven—The gas chromatograph must 18, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40, and 44.
be capable of achieving linear programmed temperature opera- 17.1.2 If samples contain hydrocarbons eluting prior to the
tion at rates of 35°C/min over the entire range of the conditions elution of C5, it is necessary for the calibration mixture to
in Table 8. contain paraffin with a boiling point below the IBP of the
sample. Propane or butane can be added to the calibration
NOTE 10—Some instrument manufacturers may require different line mixture, non-quantitatively, by bubbling the gaseous com-
voltages in order to rapidly heat the oven.
pound into the calibration mixture contained in a septum sealed
16.1.3 Sample Inlet System—Temperature programmable vial by using a gas syringe.
inlets or Cool on Column inlets should be used preferentially 17.1.3 The calibration mixture has a limited concentration
for this method. Temperature programmable inlet (PTV) is an of the paraffins to a total of 1 %. This is necessary to maintain
inlet that transfers the sample directly to the column without the skewness of the chromatographic peaks. CS2 is usually
venting a portion of the sample and usually contains a liner. used as a solvent. Cyclohexane has also been used as a solvent.
Cool on column inlets contain no liners. Isothermally operated These calibration mixtures are available from many chromato-
inlets are not recommended for this test method. graphic supply companies.
16.1.4 Inlet Septa—It is important that septa be chosen that
provide maximum stability at the inlet highest operational 17.2 The gases used for the operation of the gas chromato-
temperature. The septa should be periodically replaced after 50 graph are described in Procedure A 7.4 – 7.6.
runs. Septa particles in the inlet are responsible for ghost peaks 17.2.1 Air cooling is necessary for inlets that use tempera-
in the blank signal. ture programming. The air is provided by a separate line from

12
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 3 Determination of Column Resolution

that used in operating the FID detector. The purity requirement peak skewness of all peaks was determined in the interlabora-
for this air source is oil and moisture free. tory study to be between 0.8-1.30 as shown in Table 9. A
17.3 Reference Gas Oil #1–Batch 2—Used to check the typical example of peak skewness calculation is shown in Fig.
overall system. This material is obtained from Chromato- 4. Typical plot of the retention time vs. boiling point is shown
graphic Suppliers. Users may also use Batch 1 if available. in Fig. 6 which is obtained using any of the columns and
conditions in Table 8.
17.4 Hydrocarbon Filters and Oxygen Traps—These are
required to obtain good base signals and protect the column. It 18.3.1 When the instrument is commissioned verify that the
is desirable that the oxygen trap be provided with a visible relative response factors of paraffins in the calibration sample
indicator to determine the presence of oxygen in the system. is unity as described in 9.3.2. One of the test that are performed
Spent oxygen traps must be replaced. when the Reference Gas Oil values do not meet the require-
ment is to obtain the relative response factor. The relative
17.5 CS2—may be used to rinse the autosampler syringe response factor determination can be obtained simultaneously
between injections. (Warning—CS2 is a toxic chemical. It is with the retention time calibration if the concentrations of the
extremely flammable.) hydrocarbons are known and if a blank is used to obtain the net
18. Preparation of Apparatus area of the hydrocarbons. An example is shown in Table 10.
18.1 Install the capillary column according to the manufac- 18.4 A blank is required for the analysis of the Reference
turer of the Inlet used. Install the column at the detector end Gas Oil and for the samples. Since no diluent is used in this
also. method, a blank is a chromatogram with no injections. Accept-
18.2 Condition the column at intervals of 50 °C both for able blanks do not show appreciable ghost peaks and the signal
inlet and GC oven. The signal will increase and then decrease. at the end of the run is not higher in magnitude than the
When the signal has decreased to half its value, increase both equivalent section of the sample signal. If the blank at the
inlet and oven to the next 50 °C interval. Repeat this process isothermal section displays a positive slope, correct the system
until you reach the final temperature of the column used (see for leaks. Column compensation can also be used, although it
Table 8). If during any of these intervals the baseline does not is not the preferred technique (see 12.2.2, Note 7).
decrease to a lower value, stop the process immediately and
return the oven to 40 °C. Check for leaks in the system. 19. Calibration
Alternatively you can program the oven from 40 °C to the final 19.1 Inject the retention time calibration standard (see Fig.
column temperature at rate of 5 °C ⁄min. Hold this temperature 5). Verify that the plot of the Boiling Point of the paraffins
for 4 h until the baseline signal no longer drops. If the latter versus retention time has a shape as that shown in Fig. 6. The
technique is chosen the system has to be leak-tight. boiling points of the paraffins are given in Table 2. The
18.3 After the column has been conditioned, inject the calibration has a nonlinear portion for the first four paraffins of
retention time calibration sample containing the paraffins. Use the calibration mixture. The second portion of the curve is
the conditions of Table 8. Determine the column resolution and essentially a straight line extending from C9 to C44. The
skewness as shown in Figs. 3 and 4. The column resolution was chromatographic conditions to obtain the calibration curve are
determined in the Precision Study to be between 4-11. The detailed in Table 8.

13
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 4 Determination of Peak Skewness

TABLE 9 Typical Skewness obtained from the Calibration ence Gas Oil chromatogram with the blank. Verify that the
Chromatogram (Procedure B)
blank does not cross the Reference Gas Oil chromatogram
Component Skewness especially at the end of the run. In addition verify that the
n-C5 - - -A
n-C6 1.00
blanks do not have ghost peaks. If either or both of these this
n-C7 1.00 occurs, inspect and or replace septum, glass liner and inspect
n-C8 1.00 the oxygen filter to ensure the absence of oxygen in to the
n-C9 1.04
n-C10 0.97 chromatographic system. Further column conditioning may
n-C11 1.00 also be required. Typical chromatograms for the Reference Gas
n-C12 1.00
n-C13 1.00
Oil Batch 2 are shown in Figs. 7 and 8 obtained with columns
n-C14 0.97 1 to 3 described in Table 8.
n-C15 1.03
n-C16 0.97 19.4 If Biodiesel Mixtures (B5, B10 and B20) are analyzed,
n-C17 1.03
the chromatogram will show a prominent peak at the end of the
n-C18 1.05
n-C19 1.08 analysis as shown in Fig. 9. The large peak is due to the elution
n-C20 1.00 of the major Fatty Acid Methyl Ester.
n-C24 0.94
n-C28 1.02 19.5 Obtain the Boiling Point Distribution (BP) for the
n-C32 1.02
n-C36 1.19 Reference Gas Oil according to the calculations set forth in
n-C40 0.89 Section 12 Procedure A. Report the Boiling Point Distribution.
n-C44 0.83
Compare the values with those in Table 11. If the values do not
A
Skewness of n-C5 is excluded (see 18.3).
agree with the Reproducibility reported in Table 11 refer to the
possible problems reported in 19.3. If the values of the
Reference Gas Oil are to be compared with those in Table 3,
19.2 The retention time and peak area for the calibration
curve data are acquired in the peak processing mode. Verify the bias equations shown in Table 15 are to be applied.
that the calibration standard yields the column resolution, peak 19.6 It is permissible to use a reference selected material
skewness values for all components in the mixture as described that has similar boiling point characteristics as the samples
in 18.3. analyzed. However, the principal reference is the ASTM
19.3 Inject the Reference Gas Oil with the conditions Reference Gas Oil and the validity of a secondary standard as
established in 18.3. Subsequently run a blank run without a reference is determined after compliance with the Reference
sample injection or use the blank in 18.4. Overlay the Refer- Gas Oil analysis.

14
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 5 Typical Retention Time Calibration (Columns 1-3, Table 8)

FIG. 6 Retention Times vs. Temperature Calibration obtained under conditions of Table 8

20. Sample Analysis fill the syringe to a slow speed so as to not to create a vacuum
20.1 Sample Preparation: which results in non-repeatable volumes or 2) Add 2 drops of
20.1.1 Fill the autosampler vials to a volume which leaves a CS2 to the autosampler vial.
small headspace. For very viscous samples there are two
options: 1) Adjust the autosampler withdrawal speed used to

15
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE 10 Determination of Relative Response FactorA 20.3 Data Analysis:
% Mass Cn Response Factor % Deviation 20.3.1 Reference Gas Oil—After running the sequence de-
0.186 C5 1.008 1 scribed in 20.2.1, examine the linearity of the retention time
0.089 C6 1.003 0.3
0.0589 C7 1.087 8.7
calibration and examine the Boiling Point Distribution of the
0.0648 C8 1.049 4.9 Reference Gas Oil (RGO). If the values are within the
0.0547 C9 1.016 1.6 reproducibility values obtained from the ILS study than pro-
0.0557 C10 1.000 0.0
0.0562 C11 0.997 -0.3
ceed to analyze samples. Periodically analyze the Reference
0.0937 C12 0.983 -1.7 Gas Oil in order to verify the system accuracy. The RGO
0.0574 C13 0.984 -1.6 should be conserved since the supply is limited. Alternatively,
0.0579 C14 0.986 -1.4
0.0416 C15 0.978 -2.2
once the system has passed the test of the RGO a secondary
0.0352 C16 0.980 -2.0 standard can be used.
0.0236 C17 0.982 -1.8 20.3.2 If the Reference Gas Oil (RGO) Boiling Point
0.0247 C18 0.979 -2.1
0.0257 C19 0.979 -2.1
Distribution is not within the values of Table 11, examine all
0.0393 C20 0.974 -2.6 the recommendations in Sections 18 and 19. Subsequently a
0.0126 C24 0.983 -1.7 recalibration can be carried out. Further failure of the RGO will
0.0129 C28 0.981 -1.9
0.013 C32 0.974 -2.6
indicate an examination of the instrument components aided by
0.0138 C36 1.006 0.6 recommendations of the instrument manufacturer.
0.0126 C40 1.050 5.0
0.0129 C44 1.021 2.1 21. Calculations
A
Calculated by the use of Equation 2. 21.1 The calculations and algorithms for obtaining the
Boiling Point Distributions are described in Section 12 Proce-
dure A. Additional calculation (D86) is found in Appendix X4.
20.1.2 For the injection of the Reference Gas Oil, use if 22. Report
possible autosampler vials that have a reduce volume or use 22.1 Report the Boiling Point Distribution to the nearest
vial inserts that reduce the volume. The Reference Gas Oil is a 0.5 ºC (1.0 ºF) at 1 % intervals from the Initial Boiling Point
valuable reference material where the supply available is (IBP) at 0.5 % up to the Final Boiling Point at 99.5 % (FBP).
limited and it should be conserved. Select the % intervals as required by the sample nature.
20.1.3 Adjust the autosampler to rinse the syringe with an
adequate number of sample rinses if no CS2 is used in the wash 23. Precision and Bias7
vials of the autosampler. 23.1 Precision was determined by an Interlaboratory Study
20.1.4 If the gas chromatograph has been sitting idle for (ILS 158).The study consisted in 10 samples (10 laboratories)
more than 2 hours it is advisable to run a blank that will clear which included 3 mixtures containing 5 %, 10 % and 20 % of
the accumulated trace amounts of septa, carrier impurities and FAME ester in Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (B5, B10, B20). The
other retain substances at the lower standby temperature of the Reference Gas Oil was included as an unknown in the samples.
inlet as well as those accumulated at the entrance of the From this data the accepted values for the Reference Gas Oil
column. This run is not used as a blank to verify instrument were determined as shown in Table 11. It is to be noted that the
calibration. values are almost numerically equal to the values listed in
20.2 Sequence Preparation: Table 3 of Procedure A.
20.2.1 If this is the first time that an analysis is carried out 23.2 Precision—The precision of this test method as deter-
prepare the sequence to include the retention time calibration mined by RR:D02-1761 is as follows. The precision values are
standard, the Reference Gas Oil and a blank which is necessary to be used only in the Temperature Ranges of Table 12.
to calculate the Boiling Point Distribution of the Reference Gas 23.2.1 Repeatability—The difference between successive
Oil as well as for subsequent samples analysis. Calibration test results obtained by the same operator with the same
should be performed weekly when the instrument is in use, or apparatus under constant operating conditions on identical test
whenever maintenance is performed and as dictated by the lab material would, in the long run, in the normal and correct
on-site precision and or Quality Control protocol. operation of the test method, exceed the following values by
20.2.2 Adjust the autosampler to inject the amount stipu- only one case in twenty. Values obtained from the precision
lated in Table 8. Do not exceed the volume listed in the Table study are shown in Table 13.
8. 23.2.2 Reproducibility—The difference between two single
20.2.3 Do not leave the retention time calibration vial and independent results obtained by different operators work-
exposed to ambient temperature since the evaporation will ing in different laboratories on identical test material would, in
change the relative concentrations of the n-paraffins in the the long run, exceed the following values only one case in
mixture which will potentially lead to a failure in the peak twenty. Results of the precision study for Reproducibility are
skewness and misidentification of the n-paraffins. shown in Table 13.
20.2.4 Periodically insert blanks in the sample analysis
sequence. A determination of the state of the baseline can be 7
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
made by examining the sample and baseline overlay in the data be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1761. Contact ASTM Customer
system. Service at service@astm.org.

16
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 7 Analysis of the Reference Gas Oil Under Accelerated Conditions (Column 2)

FIG. 8 Analysis of the Reference Gas Oil under Accelerated Conditions (Column 1)

23.2.3 Example calculations on the precision are shown in described in RR:D02-1803.8 A study of the data using Practice
Table 14. D6708 is shown in Table 15.
23.3 Bias—An ILS study was carried out in order to 23.3.1 The bias statement in 14.2.1 applies also to Proce-
determine the between procedures bias for D2887-A (Referee dure B.
procedure) and procedure D2887-B. The data obtained is 23.3.2 The following conclusions are drawn from Table 15:

8
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters and may
be obtained by requesting Research Report RR:D02-1803. Contact ASTM Customer
Service at service@astm.org.

17
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. 9 Chromatogram of a Biodiesel (B-10) mixture

TABLE 11 Precision Values Obtained for the ASTM Reference TABLE 13 Repeatability and Reproducibility, Procedure B
Gas Oil No. 1 Batch 2A (Procedure B) (Accelerated D2887) TestA,B
M, % T, °C T, °F r, °C r, °F R, °C R, °F % Mass Repeatability, Repeatability, Reproducibility, Reproducibility,
IBP 113.3 235.9 2.94 5.29 7.97 14.35 r (°C) r (°F) R (°C) R (°F)
0.05 150.0 302.0 0.56 1.00 2.92 5.25 IBP 2.94 5.29 7.97 9.52
0.10 174.6 346.3 0.58 1.04 3.03 5.45 5 %– 95 % 0.000857 0.000857(X+ 0.00449(X+500) 0.00449(X+868)
0.20 223.9 435.0 0.62 1.12 3.25 5.85 (X+ 500) 868)
0.30 259.7 499.5 0.65 1.17 3.41 6.14 FBP 3.32 6 7.63 10.8
0.40 289.4 552.9 0.68 1.22 3.87 6.96
A
0.50 312.4 594.3 0.70 1.25 3.65 6.57 Several Mass % did not meet the required DF (Degrees of Freedom) > 30 as
0.60 331.8 629.2 0.71 1.28 3.73 6.72 stated by ASTM D6300-06, section 6.4.3 Note 1. Thus, the following sentence is
0.70 354.1 669.4 0.73 1.32 3.83 6.90 added “Further Standardization is Recommended.”
B
0.80 378.5 713.3 0.75 1.36 3.94 7.10 The precision values are to be used only in the Temperature Ranges of Table 12.
0.90 407.7 765.9 0.78 1.40 4.08 7.34
0.95 429.8 805.6 0.80 1.43 4.17 7.51
FBP 480.8 897.4 3.30 5.94 7.63 13.73
A
Values obtained from the ILS study (Research Report RR:D02-1760).

alternative to Procedure A, results from Procedure B may be

TABLE 12 Temperature Ranges Covered in the ILS Study considered to be practically equivalent to results from Proce-
% Off Range, °C Range, °F
dure A, for sample types and property ranges studied. No
IBP 110–131 230–268
sample-specific bias, as defined in Practice D6708, was ob-
5 138–201 280–394 served for the materials studied.
10 144–282 291–540 23.3.2.2 For T10, T30, T50, T70, and T90—The degree of
20 159–322 318–612
30 170–340 338–644 agreement between results from Procedure A and Procedure B
40 184–350 363–662 can be further improved by applying correction equations as
50 196–360 385–680
60 208–370 406–698
listed in Table 15. For applications where Procedure B is used
70 221–384 430–723 as an alternative to Procedure A, bias-corrected results from
80 236–396 457–745 Procedure B, as per correction equations in Table 15, may be
90 259–423 498–793
95 268–439 514–822
considered as practically equivalent to results from Procedure
FBP 288–534 550–993 A, for sample types and property ranges studied (see Research
Report RR:D02-1803). No sample-specific bias, as defined in
Practice D6708, was observed after the bias correction for the
materials studied.
23.3.2.1 For IBP, FBP—No bias-correction considered in
Practice D6708 can further improve the agreement between 23.4 Between-Procedure Reproducibility (R XY )—
results from Procedure A and Procedure B for the materials Differences between bias-corrected results from Procedure B
studied. For applications where Procedure B is used as an and Procedure A, for the sample types and property ranges

18
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE 14 Calculation of Repeatability and Reproducibility at Selected TemperaturesA
% Mass High, °C High, °F Low, °C Low, °F Median, °C Median, °F r, °C R, °C r, °F R, °F
IBP 127 260.6 111 231.8 122 251.6 2.94 7.97 5.3 14.3
T5 193 379.4 139 282.2 174 345.2 0.58 3.03 1.0 5.5
T10 214 417.2 145 293 201 393.8 0.6 3.15 1.1 5.7
T20 239 462.2 160 320 221 429.8 0.62 3.24 1.1 5.8
T30 260 500 172 341.6 243 469.4 0.64 3.34 1.2 6.0
T40 289 552.2 184 363.2 254 489.2 0.65 3.39 1.2 6.1
T50 312 593.6 197 386.6 271 519.8 0.66 3.46 1.2 6.2
T60 369 696.2 209 408.2 290 554 0.68 3.55 1.2 6.4
T70 382 719.6 223 433.4 308 586.4 0.69 3.63 1.2 6.5
T80 397 746.6 236 456.8 332 629.6 0.71 3.74 1.3 6.7
T90 419 786.2 354 669.2 354 669.2 0.73 3.83 1.3 6.9
T95 438 820.4 266 510.8 364 687.2 0.74 3.88 1.3 7.0
FBP 497 926.6 289 552.2 406 762.8 2.32 7.63 4.2 13.7
A
The selected values were obtained from the precision study.

TABLE 15 Practice D6708 Assessment Outcome: Procedure A (Referee) versus Procedure B

m/m % Can Bias Bias Corrected B = Predicted A Sample ’Practically’ Range of Sample Aver- Range of Sample Aver-
Correction Improve Specific Equivalent after ages in ILS Study (ºC) ages in ILS Study (ºF)
Agreement? Bias Correction?
IBP N = B °C or °F N Y 103 to 329 217.4 to 608
10 % Y = B –1.207 °C N Y 161.3 to 369.4 322.3 to 696.9
10 % Y = B –2.173 °F
30 % Y = B –1.508 °C N Y 185.2 to 390.6 365.4 to 35.1
30 % Y = B –2.714 °F
50 % Y = 0.991B + 0.671 °C N Y 208.4 to 408.7 407.1 to 767.7
50 % Y = 0.991B + 1.208 °F
70 % Y = B –1.99 °C N Y 232.1 to 426.8 449.8 to 800.2
70 % Y = B –3.58 °F
90 % Y = B –1.732 °C N Y 259.4 to 451.8 499 to 845.2
90 % Y = B –3.118 °F
FBP N = B °C or °F N Y 291.5 to 501.5 556.7 to 934.7

studied, are expected to exceed the following between-methods RY = reproducibility of Procedure A (in ºC or ºF) as shown
reproducibility (RXY), as defined in Practice D6708, about 5 % in Table 6.
of the time.
1
R XY 5 @ 0.5 ~ R X ! 2 1 0.5 ~ R Y ! 2 # 2 (9) 24. Keywords

where: 24.1 boiling range distribution; correlation; distillation; gas

chromatography; petroleum; petroleum fractions; petroleum
RX = reproducibility of Procedure B (in ºC or ºF) as shown
products; simulated distillation
in Table 13, and

APPENDIXES

(Nonmandatory Information)

X1. BOILING POINTS OF NONPARAFFINIC HYDROCARBONS (PROCEDURES A AND B)

X1.1 There is an apparent discrepancy in the boiling point line) would change, but the relative relationships would remain
of multiple ring-type compounds. When the retention times of essentially the same. Deviations of simulated distillation boil-
these compounds are compared with n-paraffins of equivalent ing points, as estimated from the curve, from actual boiling
atmospheric boiling point, these ring compounds appear to be points for a few compounds are shown in Table X1.2. The
eluted early from methyl silicone rubber columns. A plot deviations obtained by plotting boiling points at 10 mm rather
showing 36 compounds other than n-paraffins plotted along the than 760 mm are tabulated also. It is apparent that the deviation
calibration curve for n-paraffins alone is shown in Fig. X1.1. is much less at 10 mm pressure. This indicates that the
The numbered dots are identified in Table X1.1. In this figure, distillation data produced by gas chromatography closely
the atmospheric boiling points are plotted against the observed approximates those obtained in reduced pressure distillation.
retention times. If columns containing different percentages of Since the vapor-pressure-temperature curves for multiple-ring
stationary phase or different temperature programming rates type compounds do not have the same slope or curvature as
were used, the slope and curvature of the n-paraffin curve (solid those of n-paraffins, an apparent discrepancy would exist when

19
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. X1.1 Boiling Point—Retention Time Relationships for Several High-Boiling Multiple-Ring Type Compounds (see Table X1.1)

TABLE X1.1 Compound Identification—Numbered Dots (see Fig. X1.1)

No. Boiling Point, °C (°F) Compound Number Boiling Point, °C (°F) Compound
2 80 (176) benzene 27 227 (441) di-n-amylsulfide
3 84 (183) thiophene 28 234 (453) tri-isopropylbenzene
5 111 (231) toluene 30 241 (466) 2-methylnaphthalene
6 116 (240) pyridine 31 295 (473) 1-methylnaphthalene
8 136 (277) 2,5-dimethylthiophene
9 139 (282) p-xylene 34 254 (489) indole
10 143 (289) di-n-propylsulfide 35 279 (534) acenaphthene
12 152 (306) cumene
13 159 (319) 1-hexahydroindan 38 298 (568) n-decylbenzene
14 171 (339) 1-decene 39 314 (598) 1-octadecene
15 173 (344) sec-butylbenzene
17 178 (352) 2,3-dihydroindene 41 339 (642) phenanthrene
18 183 (361) n-butylbenzene 42 342 (647) anthracene
19 186 (366) trans-decalin
20 194 (382) cis-decalin 44 346 (655) acridine
21 195 (383) di-n-propyldisulfide 45 395 (743) pyrene
23 213 (416) 1-dodecene 47 404 (796) triphenylene
25 218 (424) naphthalene 49 438 (820) naphthacene
26 221 (430) 2,3-benzothiophene 50 447 (837) chrysene

n-paraffin boiling points at atmospheric pressure are used. from TBP distillation with those obtained from simulated
distillation of three high boiling petroleum fractions is shown
X1.2 However, this discrepancy does not introduce any in Table X1.3. The TBP distillations were made on 100
significant error when comparing with laboratory distillation theoretical plate spinning band columns at 1 mm Hg pressure.
because the pressure must be reduced in such procedures when
overhead temperatures reach approximately 260 °C (500 °F) to X1.3 The decanted oil is of particular interest because it
prevent cracking of the sample. Thus, distillation data are contains a high presence of polycyclic aromatic compounds
subject to the same deviations experienced in simulated distil- and the high sulfur coker gas oil should contain ring-type sulfur
lation by gas chromatography. A comparison of data obtained compounds and complex olefinic types.

20
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X1.2 Deviations of Simulated Distillation Boiling Points From Actual Boiling Points
Boiling Point, °C (°F) Deviations from Actual Boiling Point, °C (°F)
Compound
(760 mm) (760 mm) (10 mm)
Benzene 80 (176) + 3 ( + 6) − 2 (−4)
Thiophene 84 (183) + 4 ( + 7) + 1 ( + 2)
Toluene 111 (231) + 2 ( + 3) − 1 (−2)
p-Xylene 139 (282) 0 (0) + 2 ( + 4)
1-Dodecene 213 (416) 0 (0) 0 (0)
Naphthalene 218 (424) − 11 (−20) − 4 (−8)
2,3-Benzothiophene 221 (430) − 13 (−23) 0 (0)
2-Methylnaphthalene 241 (466) − 12 (−21) − 2 (−3)
1-Methylnaphthalene 245 (473) − 12 (−21) − 1 (−1)
Dibenzothiophene 332 (630) − 32 (−58) − 6 (−10)
Phenanthrene 339 (642) − 35 (−63) − 9 (−16)
Anthracene 342 (647) − 36 (−64) − 8 (−15)
Pyrene 395 (743) − 48 (−87) − 16 (−29)
A
Chrysene 447 (837) − 60 (−108)
A
No data at 10 mm for chrysene.

TABLE X1.3 Distillation of Heavy Gas Oils

Weight Percent Virgin Gas Oil High-Sulfur Coker Gas Oil “Decanted” Oil
OffA TBP,A °C (°F) SD,B °C (°F) TBP, °C (°F) SD, °C (°F) TBP, °C (°F) SD, °C (°F)
IBPC 230 (446) 215 (419) 223 (433) 209 (409) 190 (374) 176 (348)
10 269 (517) 265 (506) 274 (526) 259 (498) 318 (605) 302 (575)
20 304 (580) 294 (562) 296 (565) 284 (544) 341 (645) 338 (640)
30 328 (622) 321 (610) 316 (600) 312 (593) 357 (675) 358 (676)
40 343 (650) 348 (659) 336 (636) 344 (651) 377 (710) 375 (707)
50 367 (693) 373 (704) 356 (672) 364 (688) 390 (734) 391 (736)
60 394 (742) 409 (749) 377 (710) 386 (727) 410 (770) 409 (768)
70 417 (783) 424 (795) 399 (751) 410 (770) 425 (797) 425 (797)
80 447 (836) 451 (844) 421 (800) 434 (814) 445 (833) 443 (830)
90 ... 488 (910) 462 (863) 467 (872) ... 469 (876)
95 ... 511 (951) 482 (900) 494 (922) ... 492 (918)
100 ... 543 (1009) ... 542 (1007) ... 542 (1007)
A
TBP = True boiling point.
B
SD = Simulated distillation boiling point.
C
IBP = Initial boiling point.

X2. AGREEMENT WITH CONVENTIONAL DISTILLATION (PROCEDURES A AND B)

X2.1 Test Method D2892 is the standard for conventional In all cases, agreement between the two test methods has been
distillation of petroleum products. very good for petroleum products and fractions within the
scope of this test method.
X2.2 This test method has been compared with Test Method
D2892 on the same samples by a number of laboratories(1-3)9. X2.3 The time required for analysis by this test method is
approximately one tenth of that required for Test Method
9
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of D2892, and Test Method D2892 has difficulty establishing the
this standard. IBP and FBP accurately.

21
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X3.1 STP 577 Correlation
D86-IBP 46.566 + 0.58289 (D2887 10 %) + 0.34795 (D2887 IBP)
D86-10 % 33.308 + 0.61562 (D2887 10 %) + 0.35110 (D2887 20 %)
D86-20 % 22.411 + 0.48903 (D2887 30 %) + 0.27528 (D2887 20 %) + 0.21713 (D2887 10 %)
D86-30 % 14.431 + 0.47035 (D2887 30 %) + 0.28369 (D2887 20 %) + 0.22784 (D2887 50 %)
D86-50 % 4.876 + 0.97597 (D2887 50 %)
D86-70 % 0.911 + 0.51975 (D2887 80 %) + 0.33260 (D2887 70 %) + 0.10159 (D2887 30 %)
D86-80 % 0.279 + 0.75936 (D2887 80 %) + 0.28333 (D2887 95 %) − 0.09975 (D2887 FBP)
D86-90 % −1.973 + 0.61459 (D2887 90 %) + 0.31909 (D2887 95 %)
D86-FBP 34.179 + 1.14826 (D2887 95 %) − 0.59208 (D2887 90 %) + 0.31542 (D2887 FBP)

X3. CALCULATION OF D86 CORRELATED DATA FROM D2887 DATA (PROCEDURE A ONLY)

X3.1 Correlations X3.2.2 The application of this correlation was also pub-
X3.1.1 The resulting data obtained from carrying out an lished by Kennard (5), which showed how the correlation can
analysis by Test Method D2887 can be used to obtain Test be optimized for a particular type of sample.
Method D86 data via a correlation. The correlations used to X3.2.3 This correlation has not been subjected to recent
convert selected Test Method D2887 distillation points (per- ASTM statistical treatment since its origin precedes the newer
cent off) to Test Method D86 (percent off) are mathematical statistical methodologies. However, a limited number of com-
equations. There are two correlations presented in this appen- parisons of the use of the correlation is presented in Reference
dix: the STP 577 correlation and the API correlation.
(4).
X3.2 STP 577 Correlation
X3.2.1 The correlation that has been used for a number of X3.3 API Correlation
years is called the Atlantic Richfield correlation, which was X3.3.1 A second correlation that has been used is the API
published in an ASTM Special Technical Publication (STP Procedure 3A3.2 (see Reference (6)).
577) (4). See Table X3.1.

X4. CORRELATION FOR JET AND DIESEL FUEL (PROCEDURES A AND B)

X4.1 The resulting data obtained from carrying out an t n 5 a o 1a 1 ·T n21 1a 2 ·T n 1a 3 ·T n11 (X4.1)
analysis by Test Method D2887 can be used to obtain Test
where:
Method D86 data via a correlation. The correlations used to
convert selected Test Method D2887 distillation points (per- tn = nth boiling point temperature of Test Method D86
cent off) to Test Method D86 (percent off) are mathematical correlated,
equations. ai = ith coefficient from Table X4.1, and
Tn = nth boiling point temperature of D2887.
X4.2 A correlation model is presented here for the calcula-
tion of Test Method D86 correlated data from boiling range X4.6 Basis
distribution analysis by gas chromatography according to Test
X4.6.1 This correlation model is based on data for 46 jet
Method D2887. This correlation model is only valid for diesel
fuel samples and 39 diesel fuel samples analyzed in accordance
and jet fuels, excluding biodiesels.
with both Test Method D86 and D2887. From these results, a
X4.3 This correlation model was validated by an analysis of correlation model was determined using regression, specifying
variance procedure in accordance with Practice D6708. coefficients per recovery. A model of the remaining bias was
determined by use of Practice D6708 on a dataset from the
X4.4 Significance and Use ASTM Interlaboratory Crosscheck Program of five jet fuels
X4.4.1 Valid data for conversion to Test Method D86 and six diesels analyzed by 38 laboratories by Test Method
correlated data can be obtained by Test Method D2887. The D2887 and 201 laboratories by Test Method D86.
model is only valid for diesel or jet fuel and samples must meet X4.6.2 The bias correction model was used to correct the
the specifications given in Test Method D2887.
results from the correlation model, resulting in a new correla-
X4.5 Summary of the Procedure tion matrix given in Table X4.1.
X4.5.1 Test Method D86 correlated data is calculated from X4.6.3 Based on statistical significance tests, no sample
Test Method D2887 data using Eq X4.1 and the coefficients specific biases were observed in the dataset used for the bias
specified in Table X4.1. correction.

22
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X4.1 Correlation Coefficients
tn°C a0 a1 a2 a3 Tn-1 Tn°C Tn+1
IBP 25.351 0.32216 0.71187 –0.04221 TIBP T5 T10
5% 18.822 0.06602 0.15803 0.77898 TIBP T5 T10
10 % 15.173 0.20149 0.30606 0.48227 T5 T10 T20
20 % 13.141 0.22677 0.29042 0.46023 T10 T20 T30
30 % 5.7766 0.37218 0.30313 0.31118 T20 T30 T50
50 % 6.3753 0.07763 0.68984 0.18302 T30 T50 T70
70 % –2.8437 0.16366 0.42102 0.38252 T50 T70 T80
80 % –0.21536 0.25614 0.40925 0.27995 T70 T80 T90
90 % 0.09966 0.24335 0.32051 0.37357 T80 T90 T95
95 % 0.89880 -0.09790 1.03816 –0.00894 T90 T95 TFBP
FBP 19.444 -0.38161 1.08571 0.17729 T90 T95 TFBP

TABLE X4.2 Cross-Method Reproducibility, °C

IBP 5% 10 % 20 % 30 % 50 % 70 % 80 % 90 % 95 % FBP
R°C 13.71 11.80 10.73 8.83 7.39 6.96 7.03 7.62 8.85 17.32 12.94

X4.6.4 Both methods were found sufficiently precise to X4.6.6 Cross-method reproducibility after conversion of
distinguish among the samples. Test Method D2887 data into Test Method D86 correlated data
X4.6.5 Precision and Bias10—Reproducibility after conver- is given in Table X4.2.
sion of Test Method D2887 data into Test Method D86 data is
equivalent to the reproducibility of Test Method D2887.

10
Supporting data have been filed at ASTM International Headquarters, and may
be obtained by requesting Research Reports RR:D02-1553 and D02–1564.

X5. HYDROGEN AND NITROGEN CARRIER GASES

NOTE X5.1—At this time, because the test method precision and bias shown. The boiling point distributions of the Reference Gas
performance information using the alternate carrier gases and conditions Oil are also presented along with the accepted reference values.
listed in this appendix have not been studied in accordance with the proper
ASTM ILS process, this appendix is included only for information
purposes. Results obtained under the conditions described in this appendix
X5.3 The conditions and chromatograms were supplied by
are not considered to be valid D2887 results, and shall not be represented users of the methods.
as such. (Warning—Use caution when hydrogen is used as the carrier gas.
The use of a hydrogen sensor in the GC oven is strongly recommended in X5.4 Hydrogen Carrier
order to shut off the hydrogen source in case of a high concentration
buildup of hydrogen that exceeds the explosive limit.) X5.4.1 Typical chromatograms obtained with hydrogen car-
rier for the calibrations are shown in Fig. X5.1 and Fig. X5.2
X5.1 This section lists the conditions for D2887A and
using hydrogen carrier obtained with procedure D2887-B.
D2887B utilizing hydrogen and nitrogen as carrier. It is
subdivided in to subsections: X5.4 for hydrogen carrier and X5.4.2 The chromatograms shown in Fig. X5.3 and Fig.
X5.5 for nitrogen carrier, respectively. In both sections, the X5.4 were obtained using Hydrogen Carrier for Procedure
operating conditions for both D2887—Procedure A (D2887-A) D2887-A.
and D2887—Procedure B (D2887-B) are described.The purity
of the gases is given in 7.4 and 7.5 of this test method. X5.5 Nitrogen Carrier
X5.2 For each type of carrier, the calibration chromato- X5.5.1 This section lists the conditions for D2887A and
grams and the ASTM Reference Gas Oil chromatograms are D2887B utilizing nitrogen as carrier.

23
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X5.1 GC Conditions Utilizing Hydrogen Carrier
D2887A Hydrogen Carrier D2887B Hydrogen Carrier
Column 10 m, 0.53 mm ID, 0.88 µm PDMS 10 m, 0.53 mm ID, 0.88 µm PDMS
Carrier gas 10 mL/min 35 mL/min
Oven temp program 40°C to 350°C at 15°C/min, hold 17 min 40 °C to 350 °C at 35 °C ⁄min, hold 0 min
Inlet Cool-on-column PTV
100 °C to 350 °C at 15 °C ⁄min 100 °C to 350 °C at 30 °C ⁄min
FID temperature 360 °C 355 °C
Sample 0.1 µL, 10 % to 20 % mass % in CS2 0.1 µL, neat

FIG. X5.1 Calibration Chromatogram-Hydrogen Carrier—D2887-B

FIG. X5.2 Chromatograms of the Reference Gas Oil #2 Utilizing Hydrogen Carrier—D2887-B

24
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X5.2 ASTM D2887 Reference Gas Oil #2 Boiling Point Distribution Values Obtained with Hydrogen Carrier Gas for D2887-B
2887-B-Hydrogen Carrier
ASTM RGO No. 2
%Off BP(°C) QC(°C) (-) Limit
IBP 110.2 106.1 4.1 7
5 174.2 172.8 1.4 4.1
10 196.9 195.6 1.3 4.4
15 216.9 215.6 1.3 4.7
20 234.5 233.3 1.2 5
25 251.5
30 267.8 266.7 1.1 4.8
35 283.6
40 298.4 297.8 0.6 4.3
45 310.7
50 321.5 321.1 0.4 4.3
55 332.1
60 342.5 341.7 0.8 4.3
65 351.3 350 1.3 4.3
70 359.7 358.3 1.4 4.3
75 369.2 367.8 1.4 4.3
80 379.1 377.8 1.3 4.3
85 391.4 390 1.4 4.3
90 407.2 406.1 1.1 4.3
95 431.7 431.1 0.6 5
FBP 493.1 496.1 –3.1 11.8

FIG. X5.3 Calibration Chromatogram Obtained with Hydrogen Carrier—D2887-A

25
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. X5.4 Chromatogram of the Reference Gas Oil #2 Obtained Using Hydrogen Carrier—D2887-A

TABLE X5.3 ASTM D2887 Reference Gas Oil #2 Replicate Boiling Point Distribution Values Obtained with Hydrogen Carrier Gas for
D2887-A
Hydrogen Carrier Hydrogen Carrier
RGO #2 RGO #2
%Off BP(°C) QC(°C) (-) Limit %Off BP(°C) QC(°C) (-) Limit
IBP 107.4 106.1 1.3 7 IBP 108 106.1 1.9 7
5 173.9 172.8 1.1 4.1 5 173.9 172.8 1.1 4.1
10 196.5 195.6 1 4.4 10 196.6 195.6 1 4.4
15 216.6 215.6 1 4.7 15 216.6 215.6 1.1 4.7
20 233.6 233.3 0.2 5 20 233.6 233.3 0.3 5
25 250.6 25 250.6
30 266.8 266.7 0.1 4.8 30 266.9 266.7 0.2 4.8
35 282.8 35 282.8
40 297.5 297.8 –0.2 4.3 40 297.6 297.8 –0.2 4.3
45 309.8 45 309.8
50 320.2 321.1 –0.9 4.3 50 320.3 321.1 –0.8 4.3
55 331 55 331
60 340.8 341.7 –0.9 4.3 60 340.8 341.7 –0.9 4.3
65 349.7 350 –0.3 4.3 65 349.7 350 –0.3 4.3
70 358 358.3 –0.3 4.3 70 358.1 358.3 –0.3 4.3
75 367.4 367.8 –0.4 4.3 75 367.4 367.8 –0.3 4.3
80 377.3 377.8 –0.5 4.3 80 377.3 377.8 –0.5 4.3
85 389.6 390 –0.4 4.3 85 389.7 390 –0.3 4.3
90 405.7 406.1 –0.4 4.3 90 405.7 406.1 –0.4 4.3
95 430.7 431.1 –0.5 5 95 430.7 431.1 –0.4 5
FBP 495.6 496.1 –0.5 11.8 FBP 496.3 496.1 0.2 11.8

TABLE X5.4 GC Conditions Utilizing Nitrogen Carrier

D2887A Nitrogen Carrier D2887B Nitrogen Carrier
Column 7.5 m, 0.53 mm ID, 1.5 µm PDMS 7.5 m, 0.53 mm ID, 1.5 µm PDMS
Carrier gas 30 mL/min 35 mL/min constant flow
Oven temp program 40 °C to 340 °C at 10 °C ⁄min, hold 17 min 40 °C for 0.5 min, ramp to 360 °C at 35 °C ⁄min, hold 0 min
Inlet 340 °C Cool-on-column 100 °C to 350 °C at 35 °C ⁄min
FID temperature 350 °C 365 °C
Sample 0.1 µL, 25 mass % in CS2 0.1 µL, neat

26
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. X5.5 Calibration Chromatogram Obtained Using Nitrogen Carrier—D2887-A

FIG. X5.6 Chromatogram of the Reference Gas Oil #1-Batch 2 Utilizing Nitrogen Carrier—D2887-A

27
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X5.5 Reference Gas Oil Values-Nitrogen Carrier—D2887-A
%Off BP(°C) QC(°C) (-) Limit
IBP 113.7 115.6 -1.9 7.6
5 151.4 151.1 0.2 3.8
10 176 175.6 0.5 4.1
15 201.5 200.6 1 4.5
20 225.1 223.9 1.2 4.8
25 244.2
30 260.2 259.4 0.8 4.7
35 275
40 289.3 288.9 0.4 4.3
45 301.8
50 311.4 312.2 –0.8 4.3
55 319.9
60 330.2 331.7 –1.4 4.3
65 341.3 342.8 –1.5 4.3
70 352.3 353.3 –1.1 4.3
75 364.2 365.6 –1.4 4.3
80 376.6 377.8 –1.2 4.3
85 390.2 391.1 –0.9 4.3
90 405.6 406.7 –1.1 4.3
95 427.5 428.3 –0.8 5
FBP 475.9 475.6 0.3 11.8

FIG. X5.7 Calibration Chromatogram Using Nitrogen Carrier—D2887-B

28
 D2887 − 16a

FIG. X5.8 Chromatogram of the Reference Gas Oil #1-Batch 2 Using Nitrogen as Carrier—D2887-B

TABLE X5.6 Duplicate Results of the Boiling Point Distribution of the Reference Gas Oil #1-Batch 2 Using Nitrogen Carrier—D2887-B
%Off BP(°C) QC(°C) (-) Limit %Off BP(°C) QC(°C) (-) Limit
IBP 114.1 115.6 –1.5 7.6 IBP 115.3 115.6 –0.3 7.6
5 151.2 151.1 0.1 3,8 5 151.5 151.1 0.4 3.8
10 175.8 175.6 0.2 4.1 10 175.9 175.6 0.3 4.1
15 200.6 200.6 0.1 4.5 15 200.5 200.6 –0.1 4.5
20 224.1 223.9 0.2 4.8 20 223.8 223.9 –0.1 4.8
25 243.3 25 243 0 0 0
30 259.5 259.4 0.1 4.7 30 259.5 259.4 0.1 4.7
35 274.8 35 275.7 0 0 0
40 289.7 288.9 0.8 4.3 40 291.3 288.9 2.5 4.3
45 302.3 45 303.8 0 0 0
50 312.2 312.2 0 4.3 50 314.3 312.2 2.1 4.3
55 321.1 55 323.6 0 0 0
60 331.5 331.7 –0.2 4.3 60 333.3 331.7 1.7 4.3
65 342.4 342.8 –0.4 4.3 65 344.1 342.8 1.3 4.3
70 353.4 353.3 0.1 4.3 70 354.9 353.3 1.6 4.3
75 365.5 365.6 –0.1 4.3 75 366.6 365.6 1.1 4.3
80 377.9 377.8 0.1 4.3 80 378.8 377.8 1 4.3
85 391.4 391.1 0.2 4.3 85 392 391.1 0.9 4.3
90 406.7 406.7 0 4.3 90 407.4 406.7 0.7 4.3
95 428.2 428.3 –0.2 5 95 428.7 428.3 0.4 5
FBP 475.4 475.6 –0.1 11.8 FBP 475.9 475.6 0.4 11.8

29
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X5.7 Repeatability Measured for ASTM D2887 Gas Oil Round Robin Sample Utilizing D2887-B GC Conditions (Table X5.4) with
Nitrogen Carrier Gas
Nitrogen Carrier Gas 30 mL/min
ASTM Gas Oil Round Robin
Oven Temperature 40 °C, (0.50 min) 35 °C/min, 360 (5 min)
GGO1111 GGO1011 GGO1107
°C °C °C
Result/ Round RR Result/ Round RR Result/ Round RR
N2 Robin Std Z N2 Robin Std Z N2 Robin Std Z
%Off Carrier Mean Dev Score %Off Carrier Mean Dev Score %Off Carrier Mean Dev Score
IBP 331.7 336.5 4.79 –1.0 IBP 226.7 225.6 2.23 0.5 IBP 197.8 195.7 5.44 0.4
5 371.1 375.7 3.74 –1.2 5 286.1 284.4 1.95 0.9 5 287.2 283.9 2.95 1.1
10 383.9 389.7 4.01 –1.5 10 306.1 304.4 1.77 0.9 10 314.4 310.5 2.78 1.4
20 403.9 407.5 3.7 –1.0 20 328.3 326.7 1.89 0.9 20 345.6 341.9 2.67 1.4
30 416.1 420.3 3.33 –1.3 30 343.9 342.8 1.88 0.6 30 368.3 364.6 2.94 1.3
40 426.7 431.4 3.27 -1.4 40 357.2 356.1 1.99 0.6 40 387.8 384.1 3.39 1.1
50 437.8 441.9 2.99 –1.4 50 368.9 368.3 2.16 0.3 50 407.2 403.5 2.71 1.4
60 450.2 452.9 2.82 –0.9 60 381.1 380.0 2.05 0.5 60 426.7 422.5 3.42 1.2
70 461.1 465.2 2.56 –1.6 70 393.9 392.8 1.94 0.6 70 446.1 442.4 3.98 0.9
80 476.7 480.0 2.41 –1.4 80 409.4 407.8 1.96 0.9 80 470.0 466.4 4.04 0.9
90 497.8 500.8 2.64 –1.2 90 430.0 428.3 2.04 0.8 90 502.8 498.3 4.39 1.0
95 514.4 517.9 4.2 –0.8 95 446.1 444.4 2.26 0.7 95 526.7 521.1 4.91 1.1
FBP 558.9 559.3 10.63 0.0 FBP 491.1 487.8 4.96 0.7 FBP 579.4 570.2 7.5 1.2

X6. API TDB 9th EDITION NORMAL BOILING POINTS OF n-PARAFFINS

X6.1 The intention of this appendix (supported by ASTM X6.1.2 A joint effort was initiated among ASTM, API,
D02.04 Section H and K) is to begin a migration to new API AIChE, and DIPPR to address these discrepancies. At the
Technical Data Book 9th Edition, Boiling Points of the Summer 2012 ASTM meeting of Subcommittee D02.04, the
n-Paraffins from the AIChE Design Institute for Physical director of DIPPR, Dr. Neil Giles, gave a workshop on the
Properties (DIPPR) into all ASTM simulated distillation stan- “Physical Constants of Hydrocarbons, Especially the Boiling
dard test methods. Points of the n-Paraffins”.
X6.1.1 It is now known that the “believed” basis of the X6.1.3 Correlations, calibrations, references oils, etc. will
normal boiling points of the n-paraffins as presented in Table 2
all need to be checked/adjusted for these new NBPs. Process
of the current Test Method D2887 is not from API Project 44,
engineering, simulation programs, etc. should all benefit.
October 31, 1972. In addition, various boiling point anomalies
are noted in the differentials of the boiling points in Table 3 of
the current version of Test Method D7169.

30
 D2887 − 16a
TABLE X6.1 API TDB 9th Edition Normal Boiling Points of n-Paraffins
Carbon Number Boiling Point, °C Boiling Point, °F Carbon Number Boiling Point, °C Boiling Point, °F
1 –161.48 –258.66 23 380.99 717.78
2 –88.58 –127.44 24 392.21 737.97
3 –42.11 –43.80 25 402.98 757.36
4 –0.49 31.12 26 413.33 776.00
5 36.06 96.91 27 423.29 793.92
6 68.71 155.68 28 432.88 811.18
7 98.38 209.08 29 442.11 827.80
8 125.62 258.12 30 451.01 843.83
9 150.76 303.37 31 459.60 859.28
10 174.12 345.42 32 467.89 874.21
11 195.90 384.62 33 475.90 888.62
12 216.30 421.34 34 483.64 902.55
13 235.48 455.86 35 491.12 916.01
14 253.58 488.44 36 498.36 929.04
15 270.70 519.26 37 505.36 941.65
16 286.93 548.47 38 512.15 953.86
17 302.34 576.21 39 518.72 965.69
18 317.00 602.61 40 525.09 977.16
19 330.98 627.77 41 531.26 988.27
20 344.33 651.79 42 537.25 999.05
21 357.08 674.75 43 543.06 1009.51
22 369.29 696.72 44 548.70 1019.67

X7. PREVIOUS CHANGES

X7.1 Subcommittee D02.04 has identified the location of (2) Corrected Footnote A in Table 2.
selected changes to this standard since the last issue (3) Removed Column Resolution requirement.
(D2887–01a) that may impact the use of this standard. (4) Added Appendix X3, Calculation Algorithm.
X7.1.1 Changes: (5) Corrected rate of change of chromatographic signal in
(1) Corrected selected Fahrenheit boiling point values in Note 8.
Table 2 and added a note explaining the derivation of the (6) Modified 6.1.5 to address inlet pressure for open
corrected values. tubular columns.
(2) Corrected Footnote A in Table 2. (7) Revised 7.9.
(3) Removed Column Resolution requirement. (8) Revised 10.4.
(4) Added Appendix X3, Calculation Algorithm. (9) Added Table 4 and Table 11.
(5) Corrected rate of change of chromatographic signal in (10) Revised Table 3.
note. (11) Revised Table 6.
(6) Modified paragraph 6.1.5 to address inlet pressure for
open tubular columns. X7.4 Subcommittee D02.04 has identified the location of
X7.2 Subcommittee D02.04.0H has identified the location selected changes to this standard since the last issue
of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (D2887 –13) that may impact the use of this standard.
(D2887–08) that may impact the use of this standard. (1) Addition of Appendix X5.
X7.2.1 Changes:
(1) Revised Sections 12 and 13. X7.5 Subcommittee D02.04 has identified the location of
(2) Deleted original Appendix X3. selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D2887 –14) that may impact the use of this standard. (Ap-
X7.3 Subcommittee D02.04.0H has identified the location proved July 1, 2015.)
of selected changes to this standard since the last issue (1) Revised Note X5.1.
(D2887–12) that may impact the use of this standard. (2) Addition of a Bias statement in Section 23; Addition of
X7.3.1 Changes: Research Report number.
(1) Corrected selected Fahrenheit boiling point values in (3) Addition of application of Bias statement to values in
Table 2 and added a note explaining the derivation of the Table 11.
corrected values.

31
 D2887 − 16a
REFERENCES

(1) Green, L. E., Schumauch, L. J., and Worman, J. C., Analytical Properties of Petroleum Products From Gas Chromatographic
Chemistry., Vol 32, 1960, p. 904. Analyses,” Ed. by L. E. Green and D. K. Albert, ASTM STP 577,
(2) Hickerson, J. F., ASTM STP 577M, ASTM International, 1973 , p. 71. ASTM International, 1975, pp. 20-30.
(3) Green, L. E., Chromatograph Gives Boiling Point, Hydrocarbon (5) Kennard, C., “Correlated ASTM Distillation Distribution Based on
Processing, May, 1976. Simulated Distillation (ASTM D2887) Data,” Hewlett Packard,
(4) Ford, D. C., Miller, W. H., Thren, R. C., and Wetzler, R., “Correlation Avondale, PA, Application Note AN230-5, April 1979.
of ASTM D2887-73 Boiling Range Distribution Data with ASTM (6) API Technical Data Book for Petroleum Refining, Chapter 3, Petro-
Method D86-67D86 Distillation Data” In “Calculation of Physical leum Fraction Distillation Interconversions, 1999.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

Subcommittee D02.04 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D2887 –16) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved Oct. 1, 2016.)

(1) Revised subsections 12.4.2 and 12.5.1.

Subcommittee D02.04 has identified the location of selected changes to this standard since the last issue
(D2887 –15ɛ1) that may impact the use of this standard. (Approved April 1, 2016.)

(1) Added new Appendix X6.

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32