Agilent Biodiesel Analyzers

Importance of the Topic

Biodiesel is gaining global attention as a renewable, sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Reliable analytical methods are essential to ensure product consistency, regulatory compliance and to minimize environmental and economic impacts across the production lifecycle.

Goals and Study Overview

This document presents Agilent Biodiesel Analyzers, factory-configured gas chromatography systems designed to streamline quality control for biodiesel feedstocks and finished fuels. The analyzers support critical parameters such as fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs), glycerol, glycerides and trace methanol.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Agilent 7890B GC platform pre-tested for global standard methods (ASTM D6584, EN 14105, EN 14103, EN 14106, EN 14110, EN 14331).
• Optional Deans Switch module enabling two-dimensional GC separation to resolve co-eluting compounds in blend analysis.
• Agilent 7696A Sample Prep WorkBench provides automated, reproducible sample derivatization and injection.
• Complete supply kits, including columns and consumables, allow immediate out-of-the-box operation.

Main Results and Discussion

The analyzers deliver precise quantification of FAME content, free and total glycerol, mono-, di- and triglycerides, and methanol at trace levels. Overlaid chromatograms demonstrate high reproducibility across ten sample runs, with distinct zones for each analyte class.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Rapid deployment with factory setup, leak testing and method checkout reduces development time by up to 80 percent.
• Compliance assurance with international standard methods for regulatory reporting.
• Enhanced process monitoring for biodiesel production, enabling real-time decision-making and cost control.
• Scalable configurations address both routine QC and advanced research applications.

Future Trends and Possibilities

Advancements in multidimensional GC, real-time data analytics and automated sample workflows will further improve the resolution of complex biodiesel matrices. Integration with online process streams and sustainability assessments will support next-generation biofuel development.

Conclusion

Agilent Biodiesel Analyzers offer a comprehensive, standards-based solution for robust biodiesel quality analysis, combining pre-configured GC systems with automated sample preparation to accelerate compliance and enhance production efficiency.

Reference

• Agilent Technologies, Application Note 5991-1095EN, April 2013