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On-line Analysis of Nitrogen Containing Compounds in Complex Hydrocarbon Matrixes
Published on: August 5, 2016
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Quantitative Evaluation of Non-basic Nitrogen-Containing Compounds in Petroleum-Derived Samples by Direct Injection
Deborah V A de Aguiar1, Gesiane da S Lima1, Jussara V Roque1
1Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás 74690-900, Brazil.
Analytical Chemistry
|April 14, 2023
Summary
Direct quantification of non-basic nitrogen-containing compounds (NCCs) in petroleum is now possible using electrospray ionization Orbitrap mass spectrometry. This method bypasses fractionation, offering accurate analysis for the petroleum industry.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Petroleum Chemistry
- Mass Spectrometry
Background:
- Non-basic nitrogen-containing compounds (NCCs) in petroleum cause significant issues.
- Existing analytical methods for NCCs lack direct quantification capabilities in complex matrices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate direct quantification strategies for non-basic NCCs in petroleum-derived samples.
- To implement electrospray ionization (ESI) (-) Orbitrap mass spectrometry without prior sample fractionation.
Main Methods:
- Direct flow injection ESI (-) Orbitrap mass spectrometry was employed.
- Benzocarbazole (BC) was quantified using the standard addition method.
- Two approaches were used for non-basic NCCs quantification: abundance correction and multiple linear regression.
Main Results:
- Method validation showed satisfactory analytical parameters and low limits of detection/quantification (μg L⁻¹).
- Accuracy and precision were within 15% for intraday and interday measurements.
- Both quantification approaches demonstrated good performance with average errors below 28% for crude oil, gas oil, and diesel.
Conclusions:
- Direct ESI Orbitrap mass spectrometry provides a viable method for quantifying non-basic NCCs in petroleum samples.
- The developed strategies overcome limitations of existing analytical techniques.
- This advancement aids in managing the impact of NCCs in the petroleum industry.

