The ASTM International Proficiency Testing Center, in cooperation with the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA), the national trade association for he USA ethanol industry, is pleased to offer a new Interlaboratory Crosscheck Program (ILCP) on Fuel Ethanol starting in August 2007. The program will provide participating laboratories with statistics that can be used to improve or maintain high performance levels in their laboratories when conducting routine ASTM Fuel Ethanol analyses.

Laboratories that participate in the ASTM-ILCP will be able to compare test results and calculated statistical parameters with those of other laboratories, as well as to compare test data for a given quality parameter. In addition, participation will allow laboratories to monitor their own strengths and weaknesses in Fuel Ethanol quality testing.

The new program will launch in August 2007 subject to 25 labs registering to participate in the August and December 2007 test trials. The program will be conducted three times annually thereafter in April, August and December. Laboratories who choose to be part of the proficiency testing program will receive a one liter Fuel Ethanol D 4806 compliant sample for each test cycle, including all necessary protocols and data submission forms. All test results from single determinations will be electronically submitted to ASTM Interlaboratory Crosscheck Program Center for statistical analyses. Each participant who submits data will receive a Final Statistical Summary Report containing coded laboratory test results; statistical analyses of all test data; histograms, box and whisker charts, plus graphs that plot test results to each lab identification code.

The test parameters covered in the scope of the Fuel Ethanol ILCP will be ASTM standard tests for acidity, copper content, ethanol/methanol, inorganic chloride and sulfate content, pH, solvent washed gum, specific gravity, sulfur, and water content. Program participation is not contingent to performing every program test.

Test trials for 2007 are scheduled for August and December with a program fee of $384.00 USD. The program price for 2008 test trials in April, August and December will be $576.00 USD.

To obtain a registration form, go to www.astm.org, Proficiency Testing, and follow to the Interlaboratory Crosscheck Program link called NEW Fuel Ethanol ILCP. For all registration questions, contact Helen Mahy, ASTM International (phone: 610/832-9683; hmahy@astm.org).

Release #7604