Comparative Analyses of Physicochemical Properties of Artisanal Refined Gasoline and Regular Automotive Gasoline

Abstract

Physicochemical properties of artisanal refined gasoline (ARG) and regular automotive gasoline (RAG) sampled from the Eastern Obolo Creek and Mkpat Enin, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria were investigated. This was to compare the physicochemical properties of the two gasoline samples with each other and their compliance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The finding revealed an antiknock index of RAG (91.15%) and ARG (83.05%), atmospheric distillation of RAG (185°C) and ARG (184°C), Reid vapor pressure of RAG (0.53 kg/cm 3 ) and ARG (0.36 kg/cm 3 ), gravity of RAG (0.771) and ARG (0.683), sulfur content of RAG (0.014%/wt) and ARG (0.02%/wt), while Flash point for RAG were Pensky Martens −25°C, Abel-Pensky −33°C and ARG Pensky Martens −27°C, Abel-Pensky −35.36°C, respectively. The research octane number, motor octane number, Reid vapor pressure, sulfur content, and specific gravity of RAG were (ASTM) compliant while only the final boiling point and sulfur content of ARG were within ASTM range. Based on the findings, the LRG might have been poorly refined or adulterated and could constitute problems in automotive engines if used. However, this crude technology can be upgraded and the gasoline quality improved through alkylation, isomerization, and cyclization. Artisanal refiners should be trained to become proficient with the intent of becoming incorporated into the upstream petroleum sector.

A Study of the Relationship Between the Octane Number and the Chemical Composition of Regular, Midgrade, and Premium Gasoline

“…The volatility of gasoline fuels is typically quantified by measurement of Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) (Gaspar et al, 2019) is a critical characteristic of gasoline, high RVP compounds are needed for vehicle starting and warm-up for spark-ignition n. RVP is controlled to reduce vapor lock concerns for fuel systems (Blumberg et al, 2003) and (Udo et al, 2020). RVP is the most important indicator both volatility and emissions because of the relation of the existing volatile organic compounds in fuels (Babazadeh Shayan et al, 2012).…”

Structural and Morphological Analysis of Untapped Clay Deposits in Itu Local Government Area Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria and its Potentials as Raw Material for Petroleum Refining

“…Locally available raw materials and indigenous innovation and ingenuity in harnessing our natural resources should be appreciated, regulated, and the products assessed if they meet local and international specifications to mitigate environmental pollution [24], [25]. The quest for a sustainable clean environment has led to intensive research into alternative raw materials which will suit different industrial needs [26]. It is on this note that this research was designed to characterize some untapped clay deposits in Itu Local Government Area Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria using SEM and XRD.…”

Experimental Investigation of the Physicochemical Quality of Gasoline Refined by Indigenous Technology in Nigeria

“…The intent of the government to proscribe artisanal refining is mainly informed by the economic backlash, social consequences, and environmental pollution arising from their activities (Asimiea & Omokhua, 2013;Naanen & Tolani, 2014;Yabrade & Tanee, 2016;Nwankwoala et al, 2017;Maclean & Steve, 2019); consideration is not given to the quality of fuel produced by these indigenous plants and little has been reported on the physicochemical properties of the artisanal products (Udo et al, 2020). However, there has been a call for the government to legalise the application of indigenous technology to petroleum refining as employed by artisanal refineries in order to embrace the possibilities and benefits their operations offer in ameliorating problems associated with the availability and pricing of finished oil products in the market instead of continuously shining the torch on the negative dimension of their practices.…”

“…However, the current classification of artisanal refineries scattered across the Niger-delta region using local technology for the production of refined petroleum products in the country as illegal makes it difficult to understand what the components of their products are and how safe they are for human consumption. Udo et al (2020) made an effort to bridge this gap, but the study was limited to five artisanal refined gasoline samples collected within Akwa-Ibom State, a fragment of the Niger-delta.…”