Analysis of FAMEs in Biodiesel Fuel: Pro EZGC Modeling Software Ensures Proper Column Selection

Significance of the Topic

Precise profiling of fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) in biodiesel is critical to ensure fuel quality, meet regulatory standards, and maintain engine performance. Accurate quantification of total FAME content and linolenic acid methyl esters underpins compliance with European norms and informs cetane number calculations.

Objectives and Study Overview

This work employed Restek’s Pro EZGC chromatogram modeling software to assess two highly polar GC columns (Rt-2330 and FAMEWAX) for the analysis of FAMEs in B100 biodiesel, following EN 14103 (2011). Predicted selectivity was compared with empirical results to identify the optimal column phase.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Chromatogram Modeling: Pro EZGC configured to EN 14103 conditions, simulating separation of common FAMEs with C19:0 internal standard.
• Empirical Validation: Analysis of a 30 mg/mL food industry FAME mix and 10 mg/mL C19:0 standard on a FAMEWAX column (30 m × 0.25 mm × 0.25 µm).
• Sample Analysis: Commercial canola and soy B100 biodiesel samples prepared per EN 14103.
• Instrumentation: Agilent 7890B GC with FID at 250 °C; hydrogen carrier gas at 1.7 mL/min; 1 µL split injection (100:1); oven ramp from 60 °C to 240 °C.

Main Results and Discussion

Modeling indicated coelution of C19:0 and C18:2 on the Rt-2330 column, rendering it unsuitable under EN 14103 parameters. In contrast, the FAMEWAX model forecast full resolution of all target esters and internal standard. Laboratory chromatograms confirmed these predictions: linolenic acid methyl esters and C19:0 were fully separated. Analyses of canola and soy biodiesel showed total FAME contents above 90 wt% and linolenic ester levels around 7–7.4 wt%, with RSDs below 0.1%, demonstrating robust repeatability.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Predictive modeling accelerates column selection and method development, saving time and resources.
• FAMEWAX column delivers reliable separations for routine EN 14103 biodiesel analyses.
• High precision supports quality assurance in research and industrial laboratories.

Future Trends and Applications

Advances in chromatogram modeling may enable further optimization of temperature programs for faster run times while maintaining resolution. Integration into automated workflows and expansion to other lipid analyses will enhance throughput in analytical laboratories.

Conclusion

The Pro EZGC modeler provided rapid, cost-effective guidance for selecting an appropriate GC column. Empirical validation confirmed that the FAMEWAX phase meets EN 14103 requirements, delivering accurate, precise, and repeatable quantification of biodiesel FAMEs.

References

• Gunstone F. The Chemistry of Oils and Fats: Sources, Composition, Properties and Uses. Wiley-Blackwell, 2009.
• DIN EN 14103: Fat and Oil Derivatives—Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME)—Determination of Ester and Linolenic Acid Methyl Ester Contents, 2011.
• Pullen J, Saeed K. An Overview of Biodiesel Oxidation Stability. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 16 (2012) 5924–5950.