5.1 A knowledge of the hydrocarbon composition of process streams and petroleum products boiling within the range of 400 °F to 650 °F (204 °C to 343 °C) is useful in following the effect of changes in process variables, diagnosing the source of plant upsets, and in evaluating the effect of changes in composition on product performance properties.

1.1 This test method covers an analytical scheme using the mass spectrometer to determine the hydrocarbon types present in virgin middle distillates 204 °C to 343 °C (400 °F to 650 °F) boiling range, 5 % to 95 % by volume  as determined by Test Method D86. Samples with average carbon number value of paraffins between C₁₂ and C₁₆ and containing paraffins from C₁₀ and C₁₈ can be analyzed. Eleven hydrocarbon types are determined. These include: paraffins, noncondensed cycloparaffins, condensed dicycloparaffins, condensed tricycloparaffins, alkylbenzenes, indans or tetralins, or both, C_nH _2n-10 (indenes, etc.), naphthalenes, C_nH_2n-14  (acenaphthenes, etc.), C_nH _2n-16 (acenaphthylenes, etc.), and tricyclic aromatics.

Note 1: This test method was developed on Consolidated Electrodynamics Corporation Type 103 Mass Spectrometers.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.2.1 Exception—The inch-pound units given in parentheses are for information only.

1.3 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. For a specific warning statement, see 10.1.

1.4 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.