Fluorescence Marker Quantification in Hydrocarbons
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Solution Overview
Problem
Standard chemometric models struggle to accurately quantify marking compounds, such as fluorescence markers, in hydrocarbons due to variable responses without noticeable changes in spectral shape or wavelength, leading to inconsistencies in analytical results.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the combination of hydrocarbon samples with a matrix at a volumetric ratio of greater than or equal to 5:1 to enhance homogeneity, allowing for accurate determination of marking compound concentrations using analytical techniques like fluorescence spectroscopy and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If standard chemometric models are used to quantify marking compounds in hydrocarbons, then the analytical process is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to variable response without noticeable spectral changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (matrix material such as toluene, xylene, or trimethylbenzene) that mediates between the hydrocarbon sample and the marking compound. This matrix material creates a homogeneous environment that stabilizes the fluorescence response, allowing standard chemometric models to achieve accurate quantification without requiring complex model modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical-chemical parameters of the sample matrix by adding a specific substance with known properties. This parameter change (adding matrix material to achieve 1-10% v/v concentration) transforms the variable hydrocarbon environment into a controlled, homogeneous medium, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining analytical simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If marking compounds are used in hydrocarbons of varying composition, then the marking capability is maintained, but the response intensity becomes variable leading to quantification errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the homogeneity principle by adding a matrix material that creates a uniform chemical environment throughout the hydrocarbon sample. This homogeneous matrix (comprising toluene, xylene, or trimethylbenzene) ensures consistent solvation of the marking compound regardless of the underlying hydrocarbon composition variations, thereby stabilizing the fluorescence response intensity across different fuel types.
3Stability of the object's composition
If no matrix material is added to the sample, then the sample composition remains unchanged, but the degree of homogeneity is insufficient (0.1-0.4) leading to poor quantification accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the compositional parameters of the sample by introducing a matrix material at controlled concentrations (1-10% v/v). This parameter change increases the degree of homogeneity from 0.1-0.4 to greater than 0.8, transforming the sample into a more uniform medium that enables accurate quantification while preserving the essential characteristics of the original hydrocarbon through careful control of addition levels.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach significantly improves the agreement between differing analytical techniques, achieving concentration measurements within ±10% accuracy and enabling effective identification of adulterated fuel compositions.
Implementation Method 1
a marking compound producing a signal in response to a stimulus
Data Source
AI summary
A method of increasing the accuracy of the quantification of an analyte in a hydrocarbon, the analyte containing a marking compound, by obtaining a first sample containing (a) the hydrocarbon and (b) the marking compound, obtaining a homogeneity inducing material, contacting the homogeneity inducing material with an aliquot of the first sample in a volumetric ratio of greater than or equal to about 5:1 to produce a second sample, and determining an amount of the marking compound in the second sample using an analytical technique based on the marking material.