ASTM D4176

Standard Test Method for Free Water and Particulate Contamination in Distillate Fuels (Visual Inspection Procedures)

Applicability: ASTM D4176 is a standard test method used to determine the presence of free water and particulate contamination in distillate fuels like gasoline, diesel, ethanol, jet fuel, and biodiesel. It’s applicable to both the fuels themselves and gasoline-oxygenate blends. The test involves visually inspecting the fuel for clarity and the presence of suspended water or particulate matter.

Purpose: The standard aims to identify fuels that are not “clear and bright” and free of visible particulate matter, which is a common requirement in fuel specifications.