This test method describes a sensitive method for estimating the intrinsic stability of an oil. The intrinsic stability is expressed as S-value. An oil with a low S-value is likely to undergo flocculation of asphaltenes when stressed (for example, extended heated storage) or blended with a range of other oils. Two oils each with a high S-value are likely to maintain asphaltenes in a peptized state and not lead to asphaltene flocculation when blended together.

This test method can be used by petroleum refiners to control and optimize the refinery processes and by blenders and marketers to assess the intrinsic stability of blended asphaltene-containing heavy fuel oils.

1.1 This test method covers a procedure for quantifying the intrinsic stability of the asphaltenes in an oil by an automatic instrument using an optical device.

1.2 This test method is applicable to residual products from thermal and hydrocracking processes, to products typical of Specifications D 396 Grades No. 5L, 5H, and 6, and D 2880 Grades No. 3-GT and 4-GT, and to crude oils, providing these products contain 0.5 mass% or greater concentration of asphaltenes (see Test Method D 6560).

1.3 This test method quantifies asphaltene stability in terms of state of peptization of the asphaltenes (S-value), intrinsic stability of the oily medium (So) and the solvency requirements of the peptized asphaltenes (Sa).

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

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