5.1 The aniline point (or mixed aniline point) is useful as an aid in the characterization of pure hydrocarbons and in the analysis of hydrocarbon mixtures. Aromatic hydrocarbons exhibit the lowest, and paraffins the highest values. Cycloparaffins and olefins exhibit values that lie between those for paraffins and aromatics. In homologous series the aniline points increase with increasing molecular weight. Although it occasionally is used in combination with other physical properties in correlative methods for hydrocarbon analysis, the aniline point is most often used to provide an estimate of the aromatic hydrocarbon content of mixtures.

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of the aniline point of petroleum products and hydrocarbon solvents. Test Method A is suitable for transparent samples with an initial boiling point above room temperature and where the aniline point is below the bubble point and above the solidification point of the aniline-sample mixture. Test Method B, a thin-film method, is suitable for samples too dark for testing by Test Method A. Test Methods C and D are for samples that may vaporize appreciably at the aniline point. Test Method D is particularly suitable where only small quantities of sample are available. Test Method E describes a procedure using an automatic apparatus suitable for the range covered by Test Methods A and B.

1.2 These test methods also cover the determination of the mixed aniline point of petroleum products and hydrocarbon solvents having aniline points below the temperature at which aniline will crystallize from the aniline-sample mixture.

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 WARNING—Mercury has been designated by many regulatory agencies as a hazardous material that can cause central nervous system, kidney and liver damage. Mercury, or its vapor, may be hazardous to health and corrosive to materials. Caution should be taken when handling mercury and mercury containing products. See the applicable product Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for details and EPA’s website—http://www.epa.gov/mercury/faq.htm—for additional information. Users should be aware that selling mercury and/or mercury containing products into your state or country may be prohibited by law.

1.5 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. Specific warning statements are given in Section 7.