2026 Oral Presentations
The following abstracts have been received and accepted for presentation at the 2026 Gulf Coast Conference. Additional submissions will be added to this list as they are received and accepted.
Abstract # 100 - Training Course
10/12/2026 - 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Ivy 2 (Moody Gardens Hotel)
This seminar will present an overview on test method precision, bias, ILS design, and statistical control charts. ASTM repeatability, reproducibility, intermediate precision, and bias will be discussed, along with ASTM D6300 ILS design requirements to establish r, R, and critical success factors. Test method "in-statistical-control" concept will be discussed along with control chart work process and tools per ASTM D6299.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- understand test method precision, bias, and application of Statistical Control Charts for test method performance monitoring
MUST REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE SEPARATELY BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW, This Fee Does Not Include Registration to the Gulf Coast Conference.
Understanding Test Method Precision, Bias, ILS Design, Statistical Quality Control Charts
Abstract # 101 - Training Course
10/12/2026 - 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Vine 2, Moody Gardens Hotel
Renewable Fuels: Science, Standards, and Sustainability
The ASTM Renewable Fuels course is an introduction to renewable fuels for both ground and aviation use. The course covers first-generation renewable fuels ethanol and biodiesel, now in wide use across the globe. Second-generation renewable fuels are also discussed, comparing their advantages and challenges for implementation. The concepts of life cycle analysis used to qualify the benefits in carbon emissions reductions are presented. Several process pathways for second-generation renewable fuels are discussed. The process pathways for Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel are presented and discussed. Hydrogen and e-fuels are also reviewed. For more detailed technical information on gasoline, diesel fuel, aviation, and marine fuels, ASTM courses are available.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Identify the need for roles, societal impact, and status for renewable fuels.
- Describe the purpose of ASTM International, Committee D02, and related organizations in standards development.
- Explain how carbon reduction in renewable fuels is evaluated through life cycle analysis.
- Recall how ASTM and similar standards are applied to standardize the properties of renewable fuels and understand how authorities use ASTM standards to regulate renewable fuels.
- Define first-generation renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel and recognize key differences between first- and second-generation renewable fuels.
- Identify the main requirements of the US Renewable Fuel Standard and other emissions-related fuel regulations.
- Summarize current and emerging efforts within the energy and renewable fuels industries aimed at conservation, emissions reduction, and carbon footprint mitigation.
MUST REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE SEPARATELY BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW, This Fee Does Not Include Registration to the Gulf Coast Conference.
Abstract # 102 - Training Course
10/12/2026 - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM - Salon H, Moody Gardens Hotel
Transition Training: ISO/IEC 17020:2026 Requirements for Bodies Performing Inspections
- ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
ISO/IEC 17020 revised and was published earlier this year. Inspection bodies accredited to the 2012 edition of the standard will be required to transition to the new 2026 requirements over the next three years. This one-day course, instructed by ANAB’s Senior Accreditation Manager Paul Matera, will assist attendees in preparing their quality management system for that transition. Paul Matera represented the U.S. as a committee member and Task Group Chair on the ISO/IEC 17020:2026 working group. Attendees receive a clause-by-clause review of the changes to the new standard, as well as gain an understanding of the main changes and the reasoning behind those changes.
The course includes an End User License Agreement (EULA) copy of the ISO/IEC 17020:2026 standard and a course workbook with a crosswalk between the 2012 and 2026 revisions.
After the course, attendees have the opportunity to take a 2-hour online exam to demonstrate competency on the concepts of the standard and updated requirements. Upon passing the exam, attendees will receive a Certificate of Completion.
Cost Per Person: $750.00 (includes standard)
Must register for this course separately by clicking the link below, This Fee Does Not Include Registration to the Gulf Coast Conference.
Abstract # 103 - Seminar
10/14/2026 - 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM - Exhibit Hall A4
*KEYNOTE SPEAKER* Rapid Synthesis with Ultrahigh Temperatures or Electric Fields
First disclosed will be the conversion of petroleum products into high-value materials within seconds, without solvents, at energy costs of less than $100 per tonne. This process can reach temperatures of 3000 degrees Centigrade in milliseconds, affording graphene, battery-grade graphite, nanotubes, silicon carbide, carbyne, and more. This has been commercialized through the startup Universal Matter Inc., which produces 1 tonne per day of graphene and is scaling to 4 tonnes per day, while further launching two additional startups. Second, disclosed will be rapid routes, with >98% selectivity, to ammonia, hydrogen (H2), or hydrogen cyanide, starting from water, air, and sometimes carbon, at temperatures of 4000-8000 degrees Centigrade, and at ultralow overall energies. Finally, a method to synthesize high-value organic compounds using high electric fields in 2 minutes, with 1800x lower energy than conventional heating or catalytic techniques, will be presented.
Abstract # 106 - Training Course
10/15/2026 - 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM - Vine 2, Moody Gardens Hotel
Utilizing Evolving Industry Standards to Improve Business Operations
- ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB)
ISO standards establish requirements for accreditation, certification, and self-declaration of conformity. Embedded within these requirements are powerful tools that organizations can use not only to achieve compliance, but also to drive continuous improvement and enhance overall performance. These tools include risk-based thinking, cause analysis and corrective action, internal audits, and management review.
This course is designed to help participants evaluate standard requirements from a fresh perspective—understanding why the requirements exist, how they are interconnected, and how to effectively leverage them to build a stronger, more resilient management system. By doing so, organizations can realize greater operational effectiveness and long-term value.
Rather than serving as an introduction to any single standard or focusing on a specific industry, this course is broadly applicable across sectors. It is ideal for quality managers, technicians, engineers, and other professionals who contribute to organizational performance and are looking to foster a culture of quality.
The content is especially relevant for personnel working in the petroleum industry, calibration and testing laboratories, manufacturing environments, and other technical fields, as well as anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of standard implementation and its practical benefits within business operations.
COST PER PERSON: $695.00
MUST REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE SEPARATELY BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW, This Fee Does Not Include Registration to the Gulf Coast Conference.
https://anab.ansi.org/training/utilizing-evolving-industry-standards-to-improve-business-operations/
Abstract # 107 - Training Course
10/15/2026 - 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Ivy 2 (Moody Gardens Hotel)
Analytical Training - Bridging the Gap Between Chemists and Process Engineers
This course will include a complete tour of the analytical laboratory for the petroleum industry. We will discuss many analytical instruments and their basic function and technology. This will include GCs, ICP, ICP-MS, XRD, XRF, elemental analyzers, titrators and more. This course will also bridge the gap that some chemist experience while discussing the engineer needs including reading P&ID, block flow diagram, online analyzers, sampling, and sampling system. And finally, we will discuss the different standardized methodologies including ASTM, UOP, IFP, GPA methods and dive into QA/QC including repeatability and reproducibility. The course will be heavily supported by real world examples and as an open forum for questions and answers throughout the day.
COST PER PERSON: $150.00
MUST REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE SEPARATELY: Choose "Thursday Class" on Registration page. This Fee Does Not Include Registration to the Gulf Coast Conference.
Abstract # 108 - Training Course
10/11/2026 - 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM - Vine 1, Moody Gardens Hotel
Crude Oil: Sampling, Testing, and Evaluation
This is a 3 day Class - Sunday-Tuesday 10/11/2026 - 10/13/2026
This extensive class covers the sampling, analysis, and evaluation of crude oil. You'll gain an understanding of crude oil analytical measurement, composition and classification; quality variations and what causes them; sampling (both manual and automatic); inspection, assays and test methods; basic crude oil evaluation; quality case studies; current challenges and future needs in characterization, and much more.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Discuss the history of crude oil as it relates to supply and training patterns
- Define and discuss key terminology
- Discuss sample protocols
- Review and discuss case studies
MUST REGISTER FOR THIS COURSE SEPARATELY BY CLICKING THE LINK BELOW, This Fee Does Not Include Registration to the Gulf Coast Conference.
Abstract # 112 - Paper
Simulated Distillation of Oxygenated Fractions by Vacuum Thermal Gravimetric Analysis (VTGA
Accurate boiling point distributions are critical for refinery stream evaluation, unit design, and cut point control. Conventional GC-based simulated distillation methods struggle with oxygenate-rich streams due to incomplete elution and compound-dependent response factors. Vacuum thermal gravimetric analysis, or VTGA, offers an alternative approach for complex refinery matrices by deriving boiling distributions from mass loss under vacuum. VTGA is insensitive to compound count and chemical functionality. Results show pre-cracking VTGA data correlate well with ASTM D1160 distillation for vacuum gas oil materials and extend boiling range coverage to 1300 degrees Fahrenheit AEBP. VTGA offers a practical, complementary simulated distillation testing tool.
Abstract # 113 - Workshop
10/13/2026 - 9:00 AM - 10:30 AM - Floral Hall A1
PRELIMINARY ABSTRACT.
Workshop includes a few presentations on ICP-OES and ICP-MS techniques that beneficial to the end uers, followed by a brief Q&A session. Attendees are encouraged to bring up their own unique problems for open discussion.
TO BE FINALIZED
Abstract # 114 - Paper
StayClean™ QSight LC-MS/MS for High Throughput Analysis of Fluorinated Benzoic Acid Tracers in Water
Fluorinated benzoic acids (FBAs), including several subgroups, are a distinct category of artificial, stable, non-radioactive tracers that are commonly used to investigate flow dynamics in geothermal, hydrothermal and oil well applications. In an oil field, FBAs are known to partition within the aqueous phase and can be monitored quantitatively between the injector and producer wells to enable quick operational decision making, with the goal of optimizing oil recovery. In this work, we developed a high throughput LC-MS/MS method for analysis of FBA tracers in water. 14 FBAs were evaluated for their relative sensitivity on column. LC separation was optimized to separate sample matrix from target analytes. Field samples from a petroleum company were analyzed and 3-FBA was detected to be approximately 10 times higher than background level in the control samples. QSight LC-MS/MS is equipped with StayClean™ Technology. The instrument has self-cleaning ability. StayClean™ hardware design allows direct injection of field water samples without cleanup, instrument cleaning and maintenance. A robustness test dataset with continuing injection of 21,700 dirty sample extracts including avocado, salmon, spice, tomato mix and dog/cat food will be presented.
Abstract # 115 - Paper
Optimizing NIR and Raman Performance
Optical spectroscopy is the go-to technology to manage myriad applications both in the laboratory and in a process stream. It measures chemistry and physical properties essentially in real time and is non-destructive, quantitative, and requires less handling. The price to pay is that the spectrometer will require calibration to translate the spectral fingerprint into an analytical result. This distills down to three tasks.
· One is to create an optimized method for processing the data, typically setting appropriate preprocessing techniques and possibly selecting the optimal wavelengths. Even choice of algorithm is up for grabs in this method development step.
· Then the issue of maintaining the calibration as process conditions or input material change becomes the effort. Here, key is the selection of optimal rank (e.g., number of factors in a PLS model) along with choosing the best spectra to use in the calibration.
· Finally, a system to evaluate model quality (as in ASTM D6122) is critical to provide an objective evaluation of the current model’s quality.
All these tasks can be done autonomously, and the result is a vast simplification of the calibration process that is independent of technician training and consumes a negligeable amount of time to ensure success.
Abstract # 116 - Paper
Assuring Repeatability and Reliability in Chromatographic Analysis
Whether in the laboratory or found in a process setting, chromatography is a vital product quality control agent in the hydrocarbon processing industry. It is inexpensive, extremely adaptable to most applications, and allows us to characterize mixtures to confirm composition. There are algorithmic processing approaches that can perform signal processing and automate the interpretation of the data. They rely on the fact that a chromatogram is a fingerprint and can be processed in a manner identical to how we handle optical spectroscopy and will assess the data quality objectively. These approaches work with any instrument, vastly simplify the workflow tied to generating an expert system, and ensure that any legacy system in place is preserved.
Abstract # 147 - Paper
Creating a Highly Functioning QMS Through Partnership with Strong Operational Leadership
Quality system implementations often struggle with being effective. A dynamic of conflict often arises as Quality requirements place a burden on operational efficiency, leading to a high level of resistance at all operational levels. With strong leadership, both in Quality and Operations, a partnership can be forged that facilitates a path that harmonizes the rigor of Quality with operational efficiency. A case study for this process will be presented along with key take-aways for similar laboratories.
Abstract # 148 - Seminar
- University of Houston
- University of Houston
Fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs) and fluorotelomer acrylates (FTAcrs) form part of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals that have raised public health concerns due to their persistence and potential toxicity. We have developed and validated a novel method for measuring FTOHs and FTAcrs in ambient air using the same gas chromatography – mass spectrometry (GC-MS) instrument equipped with both a liquid sampler and a thermal desorption unit to minimize instrumental uncertainty. This unified instrumental platform enabled direct comparison of two quantification approaches: (1) liquid extraction for PUF/XAD-2/PUF cartridges and (2) thermal desorption using Tenax and CAMSCO PFAS sorbent tubes. Detection limits ranged from 0.02–0.06 ng/tube for FTOHs and 0.02–0.08 ng/tube for FTAcrs. Stability tests over seven days showed minimal loss ranging from 2.13–3.95% for FTOHs and 2.23–3.34% for FTAcrs. Tube breakthrough was <2% for sample volumes up to 20 L. First measurements in Houston urban air yielded FTOH and FCAcr concentrations up to 4.36 ng/m³ for 8:2 FTOH, and 8.89 ng/m³ for 6:2 FTAcr in the gasphase, and up to 0.36 ng/m³ for 10:2 FTOH and 0.26 ng/m³ for 10:2 FTAcr in particle phase. The results indicate that temperature is an important driver of the atmospheric abundance and phase distribution of FTOH and FTAcr.
Abstract # 153 - Paper
Matrix-Adaptive EPA Method 1633A Workflow Controls for PFAS Analysis in Industrial Leachate
- Lummus Technology
- Lummus Technology
- Lummus Technology
Industrial landfill leachate is a challenging matrix for PFAS analysis because high solids, dissolved salts, and organic matter can affect extraction, LC–MS/MS response, and recovery consistency. This study evaluated practical EPA Method 1633A workflow controls for PFAS measurement in leachate, with emphasis on dilution, SPE operability, internal-standard behavior, final-extract filtration, and extract stability over time. Automated SPE with inline filtration and anti-clogging measures was used to improve sample handling, while dilution was assessed as a tool to reduce matrix suppression and improve recovery behavior. In addition, paired filtered and unfiltered final extracts were compared over time to determine whether filtration affects reported PFAS concentrations or improves extract cleanliness without introducing bias. Overall, the work supports matrix-adaptive implementation of EPA Method 1633A for complex leachates and provides practical guidance for improving data reliability in routine PFAS analysis.
Abstract # 154 - Paper
Fit-for-Purpose LC–MS/MS Workflows for PFAS Analysis in Complex Water Matrices
- Lummus Technology
- Lummus Technology
- Lummus Technology
PFAS analysis in complex aqueous matrices requires methods that are sensitive, practical, and reliable under routine laboratory conditions. This study evaluates LC–MS/MS workflows for PFAS measurement in industrial leachate and other aqueous samples, with attention to sample preparation, matrix effects, blank control, and method implementation. Automated offline SPE was used to support routine short- to long-chain PFAS analysis in challenging leachate matrices, while mobile-phase conditions, cleanup strategies, and dilution were assessed to improve retention, peak shape, and electrospray stability. The study also considers extension to ultrashort-chain PFAS, beginning with TFA, where retention and background contamination remain important limitations. In parallel, EPA Method 1633 and ASTM D8421 are compared as practical options for aqueous PFAS testing, especially where sample volume, preparation time, and reporting needs differ. Overall, the work defines fit-for-purpose PFAS workflows for complex water matrices.
Abstract # 157 - Paper
Updating ASTM D8148 and lessons from the Field
- Choice Analytical Inc.
- HF Sinclair
Updates on the Portable Probe-Based ASTM D8148 Method and Field Experience from HF Sinclair
Ensuring that end users receive clean, "clear and bright" fuel has long been a priority across the refining, transportation, automotive, and engine manufacturing industries. These stakeholders have sought an objective, analytical method to accurately determine fuel cleanliness and fitness for use.
This presentation will provide an update on the portable probe-based ASTM D8148 instrument and introduce the Haze Clarity Index (HCI) as an objective, instrument-based technique for evaluating fuel clarity. By eliminating the subjectivity associated with traditional visual haze assessments, ASTM D8148 offers an alternative method for determining whether a fuel meets the workmanship requirements specified in ASTM fuel standards.
In addition, Kyle Rasmussen, Quality Lead at HF Sinclair, will share recent ASTM D8148 developments and discuss how the method has provided valuable data and practical insights during real-world field applications.
Abstract # 158 - Training Course
Polymer and Materials Characterization Using Pyrolysis-GC/MS: A Step-by-Step Decision Guide
Pyrolysis-GC/MS is a versatile technique for the characterization of polymers and other organic materials. The technique offers several complementary analytical methods, each designed to obtain different information from a sample. This training course presents a step-by-step decision guide to help participants select the appropriate pyrolysis-GC/MS method based on the analytical information needed. Topics include evolved gas analysis, thermal desorption, polymer identification, additive analysis, thermal degradation, and multi-step characterization strategies. Practical considerations for commercially available pyrolysis interfaces will also be discussed, along with application examples demonstrating how different pyrolysis-GC/MS methods work together to provide comprehensive material characterization.
Abstract # 159 - Paper
Beyond Targeted PFAS Analysis: Non-Targeted Fluorine Screening by Combustion–Ion Chromatography
Targeted LC-MS/MS methods quantify known PFAS but may not capture unknown compounds, precursors, polymers, or fluorinated substances lacking analytical standards. Combustion–ion chromatography offers a complementary screening approach by converting organofluorine compounds to fluoride for ion chromatographic measurement. This presentation highlights its use for adsorbable organic fluorine analysis in wastewater following U.S. EPA Method 1621 and for total organic fluorine analysis in textiles, food-contact materials, and cosmetics. Together, these applications demonstrate how non-targeted fluorine screening can identify samples containing substantial organically bound fluorine and help prioritize them for compound-specific follow-up analysis.
Abstract # 160 - Paper
ThermoFisher Chromeleon CDS now workflows for PFAS work.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Chromeleon CDS now has workflows for PFAS work. These workflows allow for faster reporting, database lookups and instrument methods for GC and LC PFAS methods. By selecting the workflow all elements of the data analysis can be loaded automatically insuring your PFAS work is completed and reported correctly. The database connectivity built inside the Chromeleon CDS allows for queries with the goal of correct identification of the PFAS analytes. This will include a live demo of the software with real world sample types discussed.
Abstract # 161 - Paper
- University of Houston - Center for Petroleum Geochemistry (UH-CPG)
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and microplastics are two classes of emerging contaminants in aquatic systems, yet they are almost always studied separately. Because many PFAS are surface-active and many microplastics present hydrophobic, chemically heterogeneous surfaces, PFAS may sorb to microplastic particles, potentially shifting their environmental distribution and biasing standard analytical methods that measure only filtered water. The magnitude of these effects, and the conditions under which they matter, remain poorly quantified. We combine interpretable molecular descriptors with a mass-balance framework to identify when microplastic-associated PFAS becomes environmentally and analytically relevant. Descriptors computed for an 11-compound PFAS panel (C4–C10 carboxylates and sulfonates and a perfluoroether acid) reproduce reference molecular weights and resolve headgroups by polar surface area, establishing a basis for predicting PFAS–microplastic affinity. Preliminary results of mass-balance analysis across a broad range of sorption strengths and particle loadings indicate that the particle-bound PFAS fraction is strongly loading-dependent: minimal under ambient freshwater conditions, but potentially substantial in high-solids matrices such as wastewater, stormwater, and turbid samples, where filtrate-only methods would under-recover total PFAS by a comparable margin. These results identify the specific loading and sorption regimes in which microplastics can alter the operationally defined dissolved–particulate distribution of PFAS, and frame testable hypotheses for targeted laboratory validation.
Abstract # 162 - Paper
Material selection for PFAS separations: transfer tubing, GC systems, and HPLC systems
The analysis of PFAS materials has become a hot topic due to both the increasingly low-level quantification required by many regulatory agencies, complicating factors like contamination of samples from the environment, and handling challenges since PFAS molecules are everywhere. While entire sessions can be rightfully dedicated to method development and sample preparation for PFAS separations, one often overlooked consideration is the choice of material for transfer tubing, capillaries, pumps, columns and other components that may be in the fluidic flow path. Here we will discuss the benefits and disadvantages of polymer-coated (both fluorinated and non-fluorinated), stainless steel, and silicon-coated stainless steel components for both gas phase and liquid phase analysis of PFAS compounds.
Abstract # 163 - Seminar
Are you ready for AI in the Laboratory?
Are you ready for AI? Digital Readiness in the Laboratory explores how laboratories can prepare for successful AI integration by assessing and strengthening their digital infrastructure. Readiness begins with a clear inventory of data sources, evaluating the digitization of workflows from sample login to final reporting. Key factors include data standardization, accessibility, system interoperability, and instrument connectivity. Laboratories must also assess data quality controls, audit trails, and infrastructure scalability, including cybersecurity measures. By identifying gaps in digital maturity and aligning systems with AI compatibility requirements, laboratories can build a strong foundation for automation, predictive analytics, and enhanced quality control. This presentation outlines a structured approach to evaluate digital readiness and provides actionable steps to support AI adoption that is efficient, compliant, and sustainable.
