ASTM D2982 : 07(2013)

1.1 These test methods cover the qualitative determination of glycol-base antifreeze in used lubricating oils (mineral base) by two procedures, one using reagents in tablet form and the other using laboratory shelf reagents. Principally the test methods detect ethylene glycol but will also detect other 1,2-glycols that may be present.

1.2 The tablet procedure (Procedure A) is sensitive to about 100 mg/kg and the shelf reagent procedure (Procedure B) to about 300 mg/kg of ethylene glycol.

1.3 Glycol-based coolant leaks into crankcases may not be detected or may result in a low bias using these test methods if the glycol has degraded or been thermally or otherwise oxidized. The conditions in crankcases may be such that contaminant glycols are oxidized or degraded to a degree to which the color indicator reaction does not occur or is biased enough so as to not trigger the color change. Other test methods for the detection of coolants or coolant additives in lubricating oils should be used if the results from these test methods alone are inconclusive or questionable.

1.4 Carbohydrates such as sugars and sugar-containing substances are sometimes used for sabotage purposes. If the presence of these substances is suspected, Procedure A contains a modification to remove these interferences.

1.5 Both procedures are adaptable to field kit use, and brief descriptions for converting to field kit form are given in Annex A1.

1.6 The results obtained by this method are qualitative expressions. However, for the preparation of reagents and in the procedures, acceptable SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

1.7 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.