1.1 This test method covers the comparison of petroleum oils recovered from water or beaches with oils from suspect sources by means of gas chromatography (1-3).2 Such oils include distillate fuel, lubricating oil, and crude oil. The test method described is for capillary column analyses using either single detection (flame ionization) or dual detection (flame ionization and flame photometric) for sulfur containing species.

1.2 This test method provides high resolution for critical examination of fine structure that is resistant to weathering. The flame-photometric detection for sulfur components is an adjunct, not a substitute, for flame-ionization detection in the identification of waterborne petroleum oils (4-12). For this reason, flame photometric detection is optional.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.