Determination of Aromatic Amines in Automotive Spark‐Ignition Engine Fuel Using Gas Chromatography With Vacuum Ultraviolet Detector

ABSTRACT Blending aromatic amines into unleaded gasoline increases the octane properties of the fuel. However, when used at high concentrations, they could lead to engine issues, such as corrosion and engine fouling. No limits for aromatic amines are reported in the European unleaded petrol specification European gasoline specification (EN 228), which however requires that the fuel does not cause any engine damage. In 2020 the European Committee for Standardization underlined the importance of ensuring that fuels are fit for purpose. Hence, a valid method by gas chromatography with vacuum ultraviolet detection to identify and quantify aromatic amines that are used for enhancing octane properties in gasoline was developed, implementing the Standard Test Method ASTM D8369, used for a detailed hydrocarbons analysis of spark ignition fuels. The developed method included an updated spectra library, calculation of calibration factors, and linearity check. The total amount of nitrogen was determined for comparison purposes with the standard test method ASTM D4629. Results show a good identification and quantification of aromatic amines in real gasoline samples.