ASTM D7618-13(2021)
(Specification)Standard Specification for Ethyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (ETBE) for Blending with Aviation Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
Standard Specification for Ethyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (ETBE) for Blending with Aviation Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
ABSTRACT
This specification covers requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permissible. The requirements for ETBE that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines are given. The ETBE shall be visually free of undissolved water, sediment, and suspended matter that could render the material unacceptable for the intended application.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permissible. Other ETBE grades available in the marketplace that do not comply with the requirements of this specification, are not suitable for blending with aviation fuels.
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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 30-Jun-2021
- Technical Committee
- D02 - Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants
- Drafting Committee
- D02.J0.04 - Additives and Electrical Properties
Relations
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Jan-2024
- Effective Date
- 01-Oct-2023
- Effective Date
- 15-Jun-2016
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2012
- Effective Date
- 15-May-2012
- Effective Date
- 15-May-2012
- Effective Date
- 01-Apr-2012
- Refers
ASTM D4057-06(2011) - Standard Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and Petroleum Products - Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2011
- Effective Date
- 01-Nov-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Jul-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-May-2010
- Effective Date
- 01-Jun-2009
- Effective Date
- 15-Apr-2009
Overview
ASTM D7618-13(2021) is an internationally recognized standard specification developed by ASTM International. It defines the requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) used for blending with aviation spark-ignition engine fuel. ETBE, an oxygenate, enhances the combustion characteristics of aviation fuels, contributing to improved engine performance and emissions. This specification sets clear limits on ETBE purity and allowable levels of impurities to ensure the safety, compatibility, and reliability of aviation fuels.
Key Topics
- ETBE Purity and Quality: The standard requires ETBE to have a minimum purity of 95% by mass to limit contaminants, maximizing fuel performance and minimizing adverse effects.
- Impurity Controls: Strict maximum levels are established for several potential impurities, including ethanol, methanol, tertiary-butyl alcohol (TBA), methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), other oxygenates and hydrocarbons, water, and unknown hydrocarbons.
- Physical Properties: ETBE must be clear and bright, visually free of undissolved water, sediment, or suspended matter that could affect performance or safety.
- Testing and Measurement: The standard specifies test methods for analysis, such as gas chromatography for purity and composition, water content determination, copper strip corrosion testing, and measurement of density, color, and gum content. All values and limits are stated in SI units.
- Sample Handling and Safety: Guidance is provided on correct sampling, suitable containers (preferably glass), and handling procedures to maintain sample integrity for testing. Users must ensure safe, health-conscious, and environmentally responsible handling.
Applications
- Aviation Fuel Blending: The specification is primarily applied by fuel manufacturers and suppliers blending ETBE into aviation spark-ignition engine fuels, in accordance with regulatory and industry approval. ETBE can help replace lead and enhance octane rating without increasing volatility or causing excessive corrosion when the specification is followed.
- Quality Assurance: Aviation fuel producers and laboratories utilize this standard for quality control, ensuring all ETBE used in aviation fuel meets stringent requirements for purity and contaminant limits, minimizing engine and equipment failures.
- Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with ASTM D7618-13(2021) supports adherence to industry and international regulations, ensuring that aviation fuels meet safety and performance expectations.
- Testing Laboratories: Labs reference this standard for procedural details and test methods (e.g., ASTM D7796, D4176, E1064) when analyzing ETBE and blended fuels.
Related Standards
- ASTM D4052 & D1298: Density and API gravity test methods for petroleum liquids help verify ETBE physical properties.
- ASTM D4176: Visual inspection procedures for free water and particulate contamination in distillate fuels.
- ASTM D381: Measures gum content to identify potential contaminants.
- ASTM D130: Copper strip corrosion testing to assess potential corrosiveness of ETBE and blended fuels.
- ASTM E203 & E1064: Water determination methods using Karl Fischer titration.
- ASTM D4171: Specification for fuel system icing inhibitors, relevant when using ETBE-blended fuels.
- ASTM D7796: Gas chromatography method for ETBE analysis.
Keywords: ASTM D7618, ETBE, ethyl tertiary-butyl ether, aviation fuel, spark-ignition engine, fuel blending, impurity limits, oxygenate, ASTM aviation standards, aviation fuel quality assurance, ETBE test methods, fuel additive standards.
Buy Documents
ASTM D7618-13(2021) - Standard Specification for Ethyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (ETBE) for Blending with Aviation Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
Get Certified
Connect with accredited certification bodies for this standard

ABS Quality Evaluations Inc.
American Bureau of Shipping quality certification.

Element Materials Technology
Materials testing and product certification.
ABS Group Brazil
ABS Group certification services in Brazil.
Sponsored listings
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D7618-13(2021) is a technical specification published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Specification for Ethyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (ETBE) for Blending with Aviation Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel". This standard covers: ABSTRACT This specification covers requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permissible. The requirements for ETBE that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines are given. The ETBE shall be visually free of undissolved water, sediment, and suspended matter that could render the material unacceptable for the intended application. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permissible. Other ETBE grades available in the marketplace that do not comply with the requirements of this specification, are not suitable for blending with aviation fuels. 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ABSTRACT This specification covers requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permissible. The requirements for ETBE that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines are given. The ETBE shall be visually free of undissolved water, sediment, and suspended matter that could render the material unacceptable for the intended application. SCOPE 1.1 This specification covers requirements for fuel grade ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE) that may be used for blending with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permissible. Other ETBE grades available in the marketplace that do not comply with the requirements of this specification, are not suitable for blending with aviation fuels. 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, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. 1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
ASTM D7618-13(2021) is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 75.160.20 - Liquid fuels. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM D7618-13(2021) has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E203-24, ASTM E1064-24, ASTM D156-23, ASTM D4171-16, ASTM D156-12, ASTM D7796-12, ASTM D1298-12a, ASTM D1298-12, ASTM D4057-06(2011), ASTM D4171-11, ASTM D130-10, ASTM D4171-03(2010), ASTM D5854-96(2010), ASTM D4176-04(2009), ASTM D381-09. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
ASTM D7618-13(2021) is available in PDF format for immediate download after purchase. The document can be added to your cart and obtained through the secure checkout process. Digital delivery ensures instant access to the complete standard document.
Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: D7618 −13 (Reapproved 2021)
Standard Specification for
Ethyl Tertiary-Butyl Ether (ETBE) for Blending with Aviation
Spark-Ignition Engine Fuel
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D7618; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope ucts by Hydrometer Method
D4052 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, and API
1.1 This specification covers requirements for fuel grade
Gravity of Liquids by Digital Density Meter
ethyltertiary-butylether(ETBE)thatmaybeusedforblending
D4057 Practice for Manual Sampling of Petroleum and
with fuels for aviation spark-ignition engines where permis-
Petroleum Products
sible. Other ETBE grades available in the marketplace that do
D4171 Specification for Fuel System Icing Inhibitors
not comply with the requirements of this specification, are not
D4176 Test Method for FreeWater and Particulate Contami-
suitable for blending with aviation fuels.
nation in Distillate Fuels (Visual Inspection Procedures)
1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as
D4177 Practice for Automatic Sampling of Petroleum and
standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
Petroleum Products
standard.
D5854 Practice for Mixing and Handling of Liquid Samples
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
of Petroleum and Petroleum Products
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
D7796 Test Method for Analysis of Ethyl tert-Butyl Ether
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
(ETBE) by Gas Chromatography
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
E203 Test Method for Water Using Volumetric Karl Fischer
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
Titration
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
E300 Practice for Sampling Industrial Chemicals
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
E1064 Test Method for Water in Organic Liquids by Coulo-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
metric Karl Fischer Titration
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
2. Referenced Documents
3.1.1 ethanol, n—chemical compound C H OH.
2 2 5
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D130 Test Method for Corrosiveness to Copper from Petro- 3.1.2 ethyl tertiary-butyl ether (ETBE), n—chemical com-
leum Products by Copper Strip Test pound CH CH OC(CH ) .
3 2 3 3
D156 Test Method for Saybolt Color of Petroleum Products
3.1.3 methanol, n—chemical compound CH OH.
(Saybolt Chromometer Method)
D381 Test Method for Gum Content in Fuels by Jet Evapo- 3.1.4 methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE), n—chemicalcom-
ration pound CH OC(CH ) .
3 3 3
D1298 Test Method for Density, Relative Density, or API
3.1.5 oxygenate, n—oxygen-containing ashless, organic
Gravity of Crude Petroleum and Liquid Petroleum Prod-
compound, such as an alcohol or ether, which may be used as
a fuel or fuel supplement.
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D02 on
3.1.6 tertiary-butyl alcohol (TBA), n—chemical compound
Petroleum Products, Liquid Fuels, and Lubricants and is the direct responsibility of
(CH ) COH.
Subcommittee D02.J0.04 on Additives and Electrical Properties. 3 3
Current edition approved July 1, 2021. Published July 2021. Originally approved
in 2010. Last previous edition approved in 2017 as D7618 – 13 (2017). DOI:
4. Detailed Requirements
10.1520/D7618-13R21.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
4.1 ETBE that may be used for blending with fuels for
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
aviation spark-ignition engines shall conform to the require-
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. ments of Table 1.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
D7618 − 13 (2021)
TABLE 1 Detailed Requirements
A
Property Limits ASTM Test Method
Ethyl tertiary-butyl ether, % by mass, min. 95.0 D7796
Ethanol, % by mass, max. 1.5 D7796
Methanol, % by mass, max. 0.3 D7796
Tertiary-butyl alcohol, % by mass, max 1.5 D7796
Methyl tertiary-butyl ether, % by mass, max. 2.0 D7796
B
C -C Oxygenates, % by mass, max. 1.5 D7796
2 4
C
C -C Hydrocarbons, % by mass, max. 1.5 D7796
4 6
D
C -C Hydrocarbons, % by mass, max. 2.0 D7796
8 10
Unidentified hydrocarbons, % by mass, max. 1.0 D7796
Water, % by mass, max. 0.1 E1064 or E203
Copper strip corrosion, max. 1 D130
Appearance Clear and bright D4176
Color, Saybolt, min. + 16 D156
Existent gum content, mg/100 mL, max. 5.0 D381
Density at 15 °C, kg/L 0.735 to 0.755 D1298 or D4052
A
The test methods indicated in this table are referred to in Section 7.
B
Oxygenates, excluding alcohols, of combined concentrations of diethyl and
dimethyl ethers, acetone and methyl ethyl ketone.
C
Combined concentrations of isopentane, pentane, and hexane paraffins, and
isobutylene olefin.
D
Combined concentrations of C isobutylene dimers mainly derived from the
dimerization of C -C compounds, and isooctane.
4 5
5. Workmanship and the lead in the solder can contaminate the samples. Plastic
containers should be avoided.
5.1 The ETBE shall be visually free of undissolved water,
sediment, and suspended matter. It shall be clear and bright at 6.4 SampleSize—Aminimumofabout2 Lisrecommended.
the ambient temperature or 21 °C, whichever is lower.
7. Test Methods
5.2 The specification defines only a basic purity for this
7.1 The scopes of some of the test methods specified below
product. The product shall be free of any adulterant or
do not include ETBE, thus the precision of those test methods
contaminantthatcouldrenderthematerialunacceptableforthe
when testing ETBE can differ from the reported precisions.
intended application.
7.2 ETBE, mass %—Test Method D7796.
6. Sampling, Containers, and Sample Handling
7.3 Ethanol, mass %—Test Method D7796.
6.1 The user is strongly advised to review all intended test
7.4 Methanol, mass %—Test Method D7796.
methods prior to sampling in order to understand the impor-
tance and effects of sampling technique, proper containers, and 7.5 Water, mass %—Test Method E1064 or E203.
special handling required for each test method.
7.6 Copper Strip Corrosion—Test Method D130,2hat
6.2 Correct sampling procedures are critical to obtain a 100 °C.
sample representative of the lot intended to be tested. Use of
7.7 Appearance—Test Method D4176, Procedure 1.
appropriate procedures in Practice D4057 or Practice E300 for
7.8 Color, Saybolt—Test Method D156.
manual method sampling and in Practice D4177 for automatic
method sampling as applicable. 7.9 Existent Gum Content—Test Method D381, air-jet ap-
paratus.
6.3 The correct sample volume and appropriate container
...




Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...