Sulfates and chlorides can be found in filter plugging deposits and fuel injector deposits. The acceptability for use of the fuel components and the finished fuels depends on the sulfate and chloride content.

Existent and potential inorganic sulfate and total chloride content, as measured by this test method, can be used as one measure of the acceptability of gasoline components for automotive spark-ignition engine fuel use.

1.1 This test method covers a direct injection ion chromatographic procedure for determining existent and potential inorganic sulfate and total inorganic chloride content in hydrous and anhydrous denatured ethanol to be used in motor fuel applications. It is intended for the analysis of ethanol samples containing between 1.0–20 mg/kg of existent or potential inorganic sulfate and 1.0–50 mg/kg of inorganic chloride.

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

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Material Safety Data Sheets are available for reagents and materials. Review them for hazards prior to usage.