D3279-19 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide

📖 Scope and Summary of the Test Method

ASTM D3279-19 provides a standardized gravimetric procedure for determining the mass percentage of asphaltenes in various petroleum products. Asphaltenes are specifically defined by this method as the hydrocarbon components that are insoluble in normal-heptane (n-heptane) under the specified test conditions.

This test method is applicable to a wide range of materials, including solid and semi-solid petroleum asphalts containing little to no mineral matter, gas oils, heavy fuel oils, and crude petroleum that has been topped to a cut-point of 343 °C or higher. All measurements in this standard are conducted in SI units.

Summary of the Procedure: A known mass of the sample is dispersed in hot n-heptane under reflux using a magnetic stirrer. The mixture is filtered hot through a pre-weighed glass microfiber pad (1.5 µm retention) placed in a Gooch crucible. The retained insolubles (asphaltenes) are thoroughly washed with n-he