Determine of Fatty Acids Methyl Estres (FAMEs) in Aviaiton Turbine Fuel as per IP585

Importance of the Topic

Fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) can accumulate in aviation turbine fuel affecting its performance and stability. Accurate quantification of these compounds is critical for fuel quality control, regulatory compliance and assurance of engine reliability.

Objectives and Study Overview

This study demonstrates a gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) method in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode for determination of seven FAMEs in aviation turbine fuel per IP585 specifications. It evaluates method robustness, sensitivity and separation efficiency.

Methodology and Instrumentation

Samples were directly injected (1 μL) in splitless mode into a GC–MS system. The chromatographic separation was achieved on a polar capillary column under a programmed temperature gradient, followed by mass detection in SIM mode to target specific m/z transitions for each analyte.

Used Instrumentation

• GC–MS system: Shimadzu GCMS-QP2020 NX
• Auto-injector: AOC-20i plus with AOC-20s plus
• Column: SH-PolarWax (60 m × 0.25 mm I.D., 0.5 μm film thickness)
• Splitless injector with deactivated glass wool insert
• Mass spectrometer settings: ion source 230 °C, interface 260 °C, scan range m/z 32–332, SIM dwell time 0.3 s

Key Results and Discussion

The method achieved baseline separation of seven FAMEs (C16:0, C17:0-d33 ISTD, C17:0, C18:0, C18:1, C18:2, C18:3) within a 40 min runtime. SIM detection provided high sensitivity and selectivity, with clear peak resolution and reliable quantification across the calibration range.

Benefits and Practical Applications

This analytical approach offers precise and reproducible measurement of trace FAMEs in turbine fuels, supporting quality assurance, contamination monitoring and compliance with international standards in aviation industry laboratories.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Advances may include faster temperature programs, comprehensive two-dimensional GC, high-resolution MS for improved selectivity, integration with automation platforms, and greener sample preparation techniques for higher throughput and sustainability.

Conclusion

The described GC–MS SIM method is robust, sensitive and fully compliant with IP585, making it well suited for routine analysis of FAME contaminants in aviation turbine fuel.

References

• Shimadzu Application News 07-GC-21007 (JP, ENG), First Edition: Sep. 2022