ONGOING MONITORING OF LIQUID FUEL QUALITY AT STORAGE FACILITIES

Abstract

The newly developed method employs spectral analysis to evaluate fuel quality continuously. Unlike traditional approaches, it eliminates the need for sampling and laboratory analysis, provides real-time results, facilitates rapid decision-making regarding fuel quality, and enhances operational efficiency. A comparative analysis of the new method with laboratory tests carried out following ISO standards demonstrated its effectiveness in the assessment of liquid fuels containing biocomponents. The determined age in sample ageing index is highly correlated with the oxidative stability of the Diesel oil and resin content for Pb95 and Pb98. Statistically, significant transformation functions were developed. The results confirm the ability of the method to rapidly identify substandard fuels, thereby accelerating their withdrawal from the market. The implementation of this spectral analysis-based method represents a significant advance in fuel quality assessment. Its continuous monitoring capability and real-time reporting distinguish it from conventional approaches, thereby offering practical benefits for fuel management. Ensuring timely interventions to maintain quality standards are supported by enabling the prompt detection of degraded fuels. The applicability of this method to state fuel reserves and petrol stations underlines its usefulness in improving fuel quality control measures. Overall, its introduction offers both economic and environmental benefits to the transportation sector.