The test is suitable for setting specifications on ethylbenzene and for use as an internal quality control tool where ethylbenzene is used in manufacturing processes. It may be used in development or research work involving ethylbenzene.

Purity is commonly reported by subtracting the determined expected impurities from 100 %. Absolute purity cannot be determined if unknown impurities are present.

1.1 This test method describes the analysis of normally occurring impurities in, and the purity of, ethylbenzene by gas chromatography. Impurities determined include nonaromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, toluene, xylenes, cumene, and diethylbenzene isomers.

1.2 This test method is applicable for impurities at concentrations from 0.001 to 1.000 % and for ethylbenzene purities of 99 % or higher. At this level, p-xylene may not be detected.

1.3 In determining the performance of the test results using this method to applicable specifications, results shall be rounded off in accordance with the rounding-off method of Practice E 29.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For a specific hazard statement, see Section 8.