This report details the development of a portable device to measure the cleanliness and stability of diesel fuels in both bulk and vehicle fuel cell storage. Both an initial laboratory prototype and a portable field unit are discussed. The monitor evaluates the cleanliness of the fuel by first filtering the fuel and then determining the amount of particlulates on the filters using a contaminated filter measuring device. The filters are rated by measuring the amount of light which passes through the filters to estimate the amount of particulates based on a calibration chart. A measure of the stability of the fuel is obtained by aging a sample of the fuel at 150 C for 1.5 hours and determining the amount of sediment formed. Based on preliminary correlations of 150 C test data with ASTM D 2274 accelerated stability data, 'go/no-go' values of 4,4-6, and6 mg/100 m1 have been suggested for rating a fuel's stability as good, marginal, or bad, respectively. Improvements to the diesel fuel quality monitor have been identified and are being investigated. A field test program to demonstrate monitor utility/effectiveness is planned for initiation in late 1981. In addition, a commercially available portable unit to measure particulate contamination is described and compared to the Army field test unit.

Navy shipboard fuels are subjected to an environment, combat reliability requirements, and occasionally long-term storage that impose stability and cleanliness needs not normally required for fuels for shore use. The Navy satisfies those needs through specifications imposing more constraints than similar American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) specifications, through a strict inspection system, and through quality testing at various steps in the acquisition and distribution system. This Navy quality-control system is described. Statistical data based upon inspection data from a random sampling of fuel acquired between February 1977 and January 1980 are presented. Results of an extensive survey of fuel received and used by one class of ships which bunkered at ports around the world are given. Data include the amount, nature, and size of particulate matter, as well as the contents of water, sodium, and copper.