Simulated Distillation Analysis by Gas Chromatography

Topic Significance

Simulated distillation by gas chromatography (GC-SimDist) delivers a rapid, automated alternative to traditional boiling‐point determination. Accurate boiling profiles are essential for refinery process optimization, product quality control and physical property prediction. By replacing time‐consuming lab distillations with GC‐based methods, laboratories can achieve higher throughput, better reproducibility and streamlined data handling.

Objectives and Study Overview

This application note presents the Ascent SimDist software coupled with an Agilent 7890 GC chassis to perform simulated distillation in full compliance with multiple ASTM methods (D2887, D3710, D5307, D6352, D7096, D7169, D7213, D7500). The goals are to demonstrate software features, method versatility and the practical benefits of fully automated SimDist analyses.

Methodology

The GC‐SimDist approach relies on temperature‐programmed capillary GC columns calibrated with a series of known hydrocarbon standards. Sample injections generate chromatograms from which boiling‐point distributions are calculated post‐run. Key software functions include:

• Interactive calibration table generation for mapping retention times to boiling points
• Predefined and user‐customizable method and temperature settings
• Advanced cut‐point and correlation modules (e.g., D86/D1160 correlations)
• Batch reprocessing and remote notification options

Instrumentation

• Gas chromatograph: Agilent 7890 series GC chassis
• Software: Ascent SimDist (Windows‐compatible, netCDF .AIA file input)
• Optional add‐ons: Sulfur/Nitrogen SimDist, Flashpoint Calculation Module, Weight‐% to Vol‐% Correlation Module

Main Results and Discussion

Ascent SimDist efficiently computes boiling curves in accordance with all targeted ASTM methods. The interactive interface simplifies calibration and method customization, while extended temperature range support enables analyses of heavy and light fractions. Remote notifications and multiple export formats (Excel, CSV, ASCII) facilitate data sharing. Add‐on modules extend functionality to sulfur or nitrogen simulated distillation and flashpoint estimation.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Improved laboratory efficiency: automated workflows reduce manual intervention.
• Enhanced precision: interactive calibration ensures consistent boiling‐point assignments.
• Regulatory compliance: built‐in ASTM methods support QA/QC requirements.
• Data accessibility: flexible output formats and email notification streamline reporting.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Ongoing developments may include integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS), AI‐driven data interpretation and expanded libraries for biofuels, petrochemical streams and alternative energy products. Enhanced correlation algorithms and cloud‐based analytics could further accelerate distillation profiling across diverse industries.

Conclusion

The GC‐SimDist workflow using Ascent SimDist software and Agilent 7890 instrumentation offers a robust, automated solution for boiling‐point distribution analysis. By adhering to key ASTM standards and providing user‐friendly calibration and reporting tools, it addresses the needs of modern analytical laboratories seeking speed, precision and flexibility.

References

• ASTM D2887 – Standard Test Method for Boiling Range Distribution of Petroleum Fractions by Gas Chromatography
• ASTM D3710 – Simulated Distillation of Crude Oils and Fuel Oils by Capillary Gas Chromatography
• ASTM D5307 – Simulated Distillation by Capillary Gas Chromatography (Internal Standard Method)
• ASTM D6352 – Expanded Temperature Range Simulated Distillation
• ASTM D7169 – Simulated Distillation by Gas Chromatography (Light Hydrocarbons)
• ASTM D7169 – Weight % to Volume % Correlation Module for ASTM D7169
• ASTM D7213 – Simulated Distillation by Gas Chromatography
• ASTM D7500 – Simulated Distillation of Lubricating Oils
• ASTM D7096 – Simulated Distillation of Typical Petrochemical Streams
• ASTM D1160 – Correlation of Simulated Distillation Data to True Boiling Point