Analytical Profile of Organo-nitrogen Compounds in Gulf Coast Refined Fuels by GC/MS

Abstract

This study examines the composition of two samples of crude fuels originating from the Gulf Coastal areas of the United States. Both nitrogen-containing basic compounds as well as non-basic hydrocarbon compounds were evaluated for presence and relative amount in these two samples. The extractions of the basic nitrogenous compounds were achieved with weak acid extractions. The basic nitrogenous compounds, due to emulsification, formed two distinct fractions. The nitrogenous based-compounds were comprised of pyridines, quinolines, tetrahydroquinolines, indoles, and carbazoles to varying amounts. The hydrocarbon content in each of the two fuels analyzed was found to contain mostly naphthols.

Keywords:

• GC/MS
• Gulf coast
• profile
• source fuels