ASTM D86 is a laboratory distillation method used to characterize the boiling range of petroleum products. The result is commonly reported as a distillation curve showing recovered volume versus temperature.
Key points to record
- Initial boiling point (IBP)
- Temperatures at 10%, 50% and 90% recovered volume
- Final boiling point (FBP)
- Residue and loss
For interpretation, always compare the result with the product specification and the laboratory method conditions. The curve can help identify changes in volatility, blending, contamination or process performance.
Lab note: Keep the sample identification, apparatus configuration, atmospheric conditions and observed temperatures with the result. These details are important for traceability.