ASTM D4053 Test Method for Benzene in Motor and Aviation Gasoline by Infrared Spectroscopy
4. Summary of Test Method
4.1 A sample of gasoline is examined by infrared spectroscopy and, following a correction for interference, compared with calibration blends of known benzene concentration. From this comparison the amount of benzene in the gasoline is determined.
5. Significance and Use
5.1 Benzene is classed as a toxic material. A knowledge of the concentration of this compound may be an aid in evaluating the possible health hazard to persons handling and using the gasoline. This test method is not intended to evaluate such hazards.
6. Interferences
6.1 Toluene and heavier aromatic compounds have some interference in this test method. In order to minimize the effect of such interference, this test method includes a procedure that corrects for the error caused by the presence of toluene. Error due to other sources of interference may be partially compensated for by calibrating with gasoline stocks containing little or no benzene but which otherwise are similar in aromatic content to the samples to be analyzed.
