Detection of Nitrate-Type Ignition Improver in Diesel Fuel.

The report describes a new analytical test method for the detection of additive levels of nitrate-type cetane improvers in diesel fuel. The procedure employs a high temperature saponification followed by a sensitive spot test for nitrates. The method is relatively uninvolved and it is applicable to diesel fuel containing any of the four commonly used nitrate-type ignition improvers. The proposed method is recommended as a screening test for diesel fuel inspection test procedures that are affected by the presence of cetane improvers. (Author)