ASTM E769-22

Standard Test Methods for Odor of Methanol, Ethanol, <emph type="ital">n</emph>-Propanol, and Isopropanol

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
3.1 These test methods are intended to provide procedures that may be used to evaluate denatured and undenatured alcohols with 1 to 3 carbon atoms for characteristic and residual odors that will affect their end use.  
3.2 The products tested are compared to reference standards using one or all of the test methods described. Interpretation of results and acceptability of the product for a specific end use are the responsibility of the panel supervisor and are based on the results obtained in testing.  
3.3 These tests may be used to qualify the suitability of these products for use in a customer-producer relationship.
SCOPE
1.1 These test methods cover procedures for observing characteristic and residual odors and estimating odor intensity of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, and isopropanol for the purpose of determining their odor acceptability. Several test methods are included and any or all may be used. These test methods may be used for both denatured and undenatured alcohols.  
1.2 These test methods are not intended to determine subtle odor differences between alcohols, which do not affect their end use.  
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: 28-Feb-2022
• ICS: 71.080.60 - Alcohols. Ethers
• Technical Committee: E18 - Sensory Evaluation
• Drafting Committee: E18.06 - Food and Beverage Evaluation

Relations

• Refers: ASTM D86-23ae1 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D86-23a - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2023
• Refers: ASTM D86-16 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2016
• Refers: ASTM D86-11b - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2011
• Refers: ASTM E133-92(2010) - Standard Specification for Distillation Equipment
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2010
• Refers: ASTM D86-09 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 15-Apr-2009
• Refers: ASTM D86-08a - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 15-Dec-2008
• Refers: ASTM D86-08 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2008
• Refers: ASTM D86-07b - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 15-Nov-2007
• Refers: ASTM D86-07a - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2007
• Refers: ASTM D86-07 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 15-Jan-2007
• Refers: ASTM E133-92(2005) - Standard Specification for Distillation Equipment
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2005
• Refers: ASTM D86-05 - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2005
• Refers: ASTM D86-04b - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-May-2004
• Refers: ASTM D86-04a - Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2004

Overview

ASTM E769-22: Standard Test Methods for Odor of Methanol, Ethanol, n-Propanol, and Isopropanol outlines procedures for evaluating the characteristic and residual odors of both denatured and undenatured alcohols with 1 to 3 carbon atoms. The standard provides guidelines to assess odor acceptability, which is crucial for ensuring these alcohols meet quality requirements for various applications. Evaluation is conducted by comparing tested products to reference standards, using one or more prescribed methods. The interpretation of results and product acceptability is determined by a trained test panel and a panel supervisor.

Key Topics

• Alcohol Types Covered: Methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, isopropanol (iso-propyl alcohol), both denatured and undenatured forms.
• Test Methods:
  • Observation of characteristic and residual odors through evaporation and dilution techniques.
  • Comparison of sample odors to established reference standards.
  • Use of panels of trained sensory evaluators for accurate and repeatable results.
• Panel Selection and Training:
  • Minimum of five trained judges recommended.
  • Panelists selected and trained to understand judgment criteria, procedures, and controls.
• Key Evaluation Procedures:
  • Characteristic and residual odor assessment by evaporation (filter paper method).
  • Odor intensity determination by dilution and direct comparison.
  • Residual odor evaluation after concentration by distillation.
  • Use of a standardized odor evaluation rating scale for consistency.
• Result Interpretation:
  • Judgements based on panel consensus and product comparison to reference standards.
  • Suitability for end use determined by agreement between producer and customer.

Applications

These standardized test methods provide practical value in several areas:

• Quality Control: Ensures that methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, and isopropanol do not have undesirable odors that could impact product performance.
• Supply Chain Agreements: Facilitates objective evaluation for producer-customer relationships to verify alcohol suitability based on odor.
• Food and Beverage Industries: Critical in applications where alcohol is used as an ingredient or processing aid and residual odors may affect sensory qualities.
• Pharmaceuticals, Cosmetics, and Industrial Products: Used to guarantee raw or processing alcohols are acceptable for sensitive end uses.
• Safety and Consumer Satisfaction: Helps prevent the release of products with off-odors, safeguarding brand reputation and regulatory compliance.

Related Standards

Several ASTM and international standards are referenced or relevant in conjunction with ASTM E769-22:

• ASTM D86: Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure.
• ASTM E133: Specification for Distillation Equipment.
• ASTM STP 758: Selection and Training of Sensory Evaluation Panels.
• Sensory Evaluation Standards: Other standards governing the selection, training, and performance of sensory panels.
• International Standards: Developed in line with WTO TBT Committee principles to ensure international compatibility and regulatory compliance.

Keywords: methanol odor test, ethanol odor evaluation, isopropanol quality control, n-propanol sensory analysis, denatured alcohol standards, residual odor testing, ASTM alcohol testing methods, industrial alcohol acceptability.

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: E769 − 22
Standard Test Methods for
Odor of Methanol, Ethanol, n-Propanol, and Isopropanol
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E769; 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 3.2 The products tested are compared to reference standards
using one or all of the test methods described. Interpretation of
1.1 These test methods cover procedures for observing
results and acceptability of the product for a specific end use
characteristic and residual odors and estimating odor intensity
are the responsibility of the panel supervisor and are based on
of methanol, ethanol, n-propanol, and isopropanol for the
the results obtained in testing.
purpose of determining their odor acceptability. Several test
methods are included and any or all may be used. These test 3.3 These tests may be used to qualify the suitability of
methods may be used for both denatured and undenatured these products for use in a customer-producer relationship.
alcohols.
4. Reference Standards
1.2 These test methods are not intended to determine subtle
4.1 Reference standards of the products to be tested, having
odor differences between alcohols, which do not affect their
odor characteristics satisfactory to the consumer and producer,
end use.
are required.
1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the 4.2 Periodically examine reference standards to assure their
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro- continued acceptability, and replace when necessary.
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
5. Selection of Panel
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.4 This international standard was developed in accor-
5.1 A panel of at least five trained judges is recommended
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
for these evaluations.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
5.2 The panel may be selected and trained in accordance
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
with the methods outlined inASTM STP 758. Since discrimi-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
nation tests are involved, panel members must have a complete
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
understanding of the nature of the judgements required, the test
procedures, and test controls required. During the training
2. Referenced Documents
2 period, panelists should examine both acceptable and unac-
2.1 ASTM Standards:
ceptable products to become familiar with the range of
D86 Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products and
acceptability.
Liquid Fuels at Atmospheric Pressure
E133 Specification for Distillation Equipment
6. Procedure A—Characteristic and Residual Odors by
Evaporation
3. Significance and Use
6.1 Apparatus:
3.1 These test methods are intended to provide procedures
6.1.1 Rapid Qualitative Filter Paper, 2.5 cm by 7.5 cm
that may be used to evaluate denatured and undenatured
strips, odor-free.
alcohols with 1 to 3 carbon atoms for characteristic and
6.1.2 Glass Containers, odor-free, with fitted closures.
residual odors that will affect their end use.
6.2 Sample Preparation—Each panelist dips separate strips
of the filter paper to a depth of 5.0 cm into the sample and
These test methods are under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E18 on
Sensory Evaluation and are the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E18.06 on
standard, which are provided in suitable, clean, odor-free glass
Food and Beverage Evaluation.
containers with fitted closures.
Current edition approved March 1, 2022. Published March 2022. Originally
approved in 1981. Last previous edition approved in 2004 as E769 – 85 (2004)
6.3 Sample Evaluation:
which was withdrawn August 2011 and reinstated in March 2022.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Selection and Training of Sensory Evaluation Panels. ASTM STP 758, ASTM
the ASTM website. International, 1981.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E769 − 22
6.3.1 For characterization, after wetting the filter papers, 8.2 Sample Preparation—Transfer 100 mL of the sample
make an immediate odor comparison between the standard and into a clean, odorless 200 mLdistillation flask. Distill, using an
sample(s). Permit the papers to air dry at room temperature. apparatus conforming to Test Method D86 and Specification
6.3.2 For residual odor, as soon as the papers appear dry and E133, just to dryness at a rate of 8 to 12 mL/min. Allow the
flask to cool and pour a few drops of the residual liquid
the characteristic odor has dissipated, evaluate them for pos-
sible differences. condensate on an odorless filter paper. Aerate the paper to
remove all visible liquid and all normal odor characteristics of
6.3.3 Panel members should record individual results as
the sample. Transfer the filter paper to the odorless, low-form
outlined in 10.1 and 10.2.
cylindrical weighing bottle with ground-in, hollow, closed-
bottom stopper. Place in oven set at 150 °F (65 °C) for 5 min.
7. Procedure B—Odor Character Intensity by Dilution
Remove from the oven and allow to cool sufficiently to handle.
7.1 Methanol and Ethanol:
Prepare a blank, consisting of filter paper without sample, but
7.1.1 SamplePreparation—Add25 mLofalcoholsampleto
treated in same manner.
a 250 mL flask containing 75 mL of odor-free water. Swirl to
8.3 Samp
...