ASTM D7515-19 (2023) PDF

Full title and description

ASTM D7515-19(2023) — Standard Test Method for Purity of 1,3‑Propanediol (Gas Chromatographic Method). This test method describes a gas‑chromatographic procedure (typically GC with flame ionization detection) for determining the purity of 1,3‑propanediol (PDO) and for detecting/separating commonly encountered glycol impurities such as ethylene glycol, propylene glycol and dipropylene glycol.

Abstract

This standard specifies sample preparation, chromatographic conditions, and quantification by direct area normalization for measurement of PDO purity. It was developed originally for PDO used as the freeze‑point depressant base fluid in engine coolants, and the method may be applied to PDO used in other applications where GC analysis of glycol impurities is appropriate.

General information

• Status: Active — current designation D7515‑19 with reapproval/notation in 2023 (shown as D7515‑19(2023)).
• Publication date: Original edition approved 2019; reapproved/reissued in 2023 (document shown as dated 1 September 2023 / reapproval 2023).
• Publisher: ASTM International.
• ICS / categories: 71.040.50 (Physicochemical methods of analysis / chromatography).
• Edition / version: Designation D7515‑19 (2019), reapproved/reissued in 2023 (formatted as D7515‑19(2023)).
• Number of pages: 10 pages.

Scope

The method covers chromatographic determination of PDO purity by GC (split or on‑column injection) with a flame ionization detector using specified column options and temperature/pressure programs. It is intended to establish whether PDO meets purity requirements for its intended use (notably as a coolant base fluid) and includes guidance for use of reference samples containing EG, PG or DPG as performance checks. The standard notes safety and MSDS review requirements and indicates SI units are standard.

Key topics and requirements

• Analyte: 1,3‑propanediol (PDO) purity determination by gas chromatography (GC-FID).
• Instrumentation: GC with splitter or on‑column injection, flame ionization detector, temperature programming and appropriate columns (two common column choices given).
• Quantification: direct area normalization; use of reference samples (EG, PG, DPG in PDO) as performance check and to demonstrate separation.
• Sample preparation and safety: procedures and MSDS/safety note; users must follow laboratory safety and environmental practices.
• Precision/bias information: interlaboratory study and precision statement available in related ASTM research report material.

Typical use and users

Used by analytical and quality control laboratories, chemical manufacturers and suppliers of 1,3‑propanediol, formulators of engine coolants and industrial fluids, and testing organizations verifying raw‑material purity. Typical users apply this method for release testing, incoming inspection, and R&D where identification or quantification of glycol impurities is required.

Related standards

The standard references and aligns with other ASTM and practice documents commonly used in chromatographic and chemical testing such as ASTM D1123 (water in engine coolant concentrates by Karl Fischer), E177 (precision and bias terminology), and E300 (sampling practices). Consult the D7515 text for the complete list of referenced standards and practices.

Keywords

1,3‑propanediol; PDO; gas chromatography; GC‑FID; ethylene glycol; propylene glycol; dipropylene glycol; glycol impurities; engine coolant base fluid; purity test.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ASTM D7515‑19(2023) is a standard test method that defines a gas‑chromatographic procedure to determine the purity of 1,3‑propanediol (PDO).

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers GC instrumentation and operating parameters, sample and reference preparation, quantification by area normalization, and use of glycol reference samples to demonstrate separation and check performance. The method was developed with PDO used in engine coolants in mind but can be applied where appropriate.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Analytical and QC laboratories, PDO manufacturers and suppliers, coolant formulators, and standards/test houses performing purity testing and incoming inspection.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: The designation D7515‑19 is the 2019 edition; it is shown as reapproved/reissued in 2023 (D7515‑19(2023)). Users should confirm with ASTM International for the absolute current status before regulatory use.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It is a standalone ASTM test method under Committee D15 (Engine Coolants and Related Fluids) and references other ASTM and practice documents for related procedures and terminology.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: 1,3‑propanediol, PDO, gas chromatography, glycol impurities, GC‑FID, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol.