Presentation Profile
Assessing High-Temperature Stability of Middle Distillate Fuels via Advanced Reflectance Colorimetry
Currently Scheduled: 10/15/2025 - 12:30 PM - 12:50 PM
Room: South Lobby
Main Author
Dr. Raj Shah - Koehler Instrument Company
- Angelina Precilla - Koehler Instrument Company
- Lei Andre Delos Reyes - Koehler Instrument Company
- Zachary Slade - Koehler Instrument Company
- Mojan Jafaripour - Koehler Instrument Company
Abstract:
Reliable performance of middle distillate fuels (jet and diesel) hinges on their ability to resist oxidative degradation under elevated temperatures. This study employs the Koehler Reflectance Colorimeter to quantify filterable insoluble formation in distillate samples according to ASTM D6468. Two 50 mL fuel aliquots are incubated at 150 °C for prescribed intervals (90 min and 180 min), then cooled to ambient temperature in darkness to allow particulate aggregation. A vacuum filtration system collects insoluble residues on pre-weighed filter pads, which are subsequently placed atop the photosensor for reflectance measurement. Calibration of the instrument is achieved using a black cavity standard (0 % reflectance) followed by a reference plaque with a known reflectance value. Reflectance values are averaged across duplicate samples to yield a reliable indicator of fuel stability: lower percent reflectance corresponds to higher insoluble content and diminished thermal stability. By automating calibration, data capture, and averaging protocols, the K30700 unit provides rapid, reproducible insights into fuel quality. This reflectance-based approach enables early detection of oxidative degradation, supporting safer storage, transport, and in-service use of critical distillate fuels.
