ASTM D2982 Test Methods for Detecting Glycol-Base Antifreeze in Used Lubricating Oils
1. Scope
1.1 These test methods describe the qualitative determination of glycol-base antifreeze in used lubricating oils (mineral base) by two procedures, one using reagents in tablet form and the other using laboratory shelf reagents. Principally the test methods detect ethylene glycol but will also detect other 1,2-glycols that may be present.
1.1.1 When a positive result is obtained and a sample of the unused oil is available, the unused oil is also tested and used as a reference.

NOTE 1 - Since the inception of this test method (1971), there have been many changes in base stock technology and additive technology. Therefore, when available, the new, unused oil, or a sample of the same used oil, known to not contain antifreeze, is tested as a reference.

1.2 The tablet procedure (Procedure A) is sensitive to about 100 mg/kg and the shelf reagent procedure (Procedure B) to about 300 mg/kg of ethylene glycol.

1.3 Carbohydrates such as sugars and sugar-containing substances are sometimes used for sabotage purposes. If the presence of these substances is suspected, Procedure A contains a modification to remove these interferences.

1.4 Both procedures are adaptable to field kit use, and brief descriptions for converting to field kit form are given in Annex A1.
1.4.1 Commercial field testing kits are available.

1.5 The results obtained by this method are qualitative expressions. However, for the preparation of reagents and in the procedures, acceptable SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D95 Test Method for Water in Petroleum Products and Bituminous Materials by Distillation
D1193 Specification for Reagent Water
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
D4175 Terminology Relating to Petroleum, Petroleum Products, and Lubricants
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum

3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 glycol-base antifreeze, n - in engine coolants, ethylene or propylene glycol commonly used in admixture with water and additives to lower the coolant freezing point.

3.1.2 used oil, n - any oil that has been in a piece of equipment (for example, an engine, gear box, transformer, or turbine) whether operated or not.
3.1.2.1 Discussion - In the development of this test method, the used oil is a mineral lubricating oil from an engine crankcase.