ASTM D3328: Standard Test Methods for Comparison of Waterborne Petroleum Oils by Gas Chromatography

This test method covers the comparison of petroleum oils recovered from water or beaches with oils from suspect sources by means of gas chromatography (1, 2, 3).² Such oils include distillate fuel, lubricating oil, and crude oil. The test method described is for capillary column analyses using either single detection (flame ionization) or dual detection (flame ionization and flame photometric) for sulfur containing species.

This test method provides high resolution for critical examination of fine structure that is resistant to weathering. The flame-photometric detection for sulfur components is an adjunct, not a substitute, for flame-ionization detection in the identification of waterborne petroleum oils (4-12). For this reason, flame photometric detection is optional.

This standard does not purport to address 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 The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the references at the end of these test methods.

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

gas chromotograph

oil analysis

oil identification

spilled oils

waterborne oils