2026 Posters
The following posters will be presented in the Exhibit Hall at the 2026 Gulf Coast Conference.
Abstract # 111 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Determination and Measurement of Trace Impurities in Battery Off-Gas Using GC-TOF-MS and GC-ICP-MS
- CONSCI, Ltd.
The rapid development of modern advanced battery technologies has revolutionized energy storage for electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and grid applications. As energy density and performance increase, so do the risks associated with battery failures. One of the critical indicators of impending failure is the release of off-gases generated during abnormal condition such as overcharging, mechanical damage, or thermal runaway. Off-gas analysis plays a key role in understanding battery safety and reliability. Other than typical atmospheric gases there may be trace amounts of unknown or atypical species that require further investigation—typically using a combination of GC/MS and GC-ICP-MS.
Abstract # 121 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advances in a Versatile Octane Engine Design for Evaluating Gasoline and Biofuel Blends
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Octane rating is a fundamental parameter in assessing fuel quality, particularly for internal combustion engines where resistance to knocking is critical for optimal performance, efficiency, and emissions control. Higher octane numbers indicate a fuel’s greater ability to withstand premature ignition under pressure, which is essential for modern, high-compression engine designs. This poster presents the evaluation of octane performance using standardized testing protocols following ASTM D2699 for Research Octane Number (RON) and ASTM D2700 for Motor Octane Number (MON). These complementary methods provide a comprehensive understanding of a fuel’s behavior under varying operating conditions, from mild to severe. The testing system employs an engine with adjustable compression ratios, enabling accurate and repeatable octane measurements across a wide range of fuel formulations. Particular attention is given to bioethanol-gasoline blends, which demonstrate notable improvements in octane values as the proportion of bioethanol increases. This trend highlights the promise of renewable fuels not only in reducing environmental impact but also in enhancing engine performance. Standardized octane testing supports the development of advanced fuels that align with sustainability goals while meeting the performance demands of modern engines. By enabling precise characterization of combustion properties, this method can help in refining fuel formulations and guiding future innovations in the automotive and energy sectors.
Abstract # 122 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advancements in Cold Flow Property Testing: A Compact Unique Approach to Manual Cloud and Pour Point Determination
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Cold flow properties, specifically cloud point and pour point, are critical indicators of low-temperature performance for fuels, lubricants, and crude oils. These measurements define when visible wax formation begins and when flow behavior effectively stops, directly impacting the reliability of lubricating oil systems, fuel systems, and pipeline operations under low-temperature stress. Traditional manual testing relies on liquid cooling baths that require large footprints, involve cumbersome fluid handling, and suffer from frost accumulation that hinders visibility. To resolve these operational bottlenecks, modern instrumentation like the Koehler K66100 Compact Cloud and Pour Point Bath utilizes a solid-block design with Stirling cooling. This architecture provides extreme low-temperature testing with jacket temperatures reaching down to -105°C in a compact bench-top footprint. Designed to acquire data in strict accordance with manual referee methods, the system supports ASTM D97, ASTM D2500, ASTM D5853, and related IP standards. A frost-free top cover preserves visibility during deep-cold operation, while preset temperature programs automatically step cooling in five minutes or less down to -51°C. By integrating deep-cold capabilities into a compact platform, laboratories can maintain rigorous adherence to manual cold flow testing standards while optimizing bench space and improving workflow efficiency.
Abstract # 123 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advances in Automated Low-Temperature Petroleum Testing: Flow Characterization by Optical Cloud and Tilt Pour Point Analysis
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Low-temperature flow behavior is a critical determinant of petroleum product performance, particularly in fuels, lubricants, blending operations, and pipeline systems, where wax crystallization, viscosity increases, and flow losses can compromise product handling and system dependability. Cloud point identifies the temperature at which wax crystals first become optically detectable during cooling, while pour point defines the lowest temperature at which specimen movement is observed under prescribed test conditions. The Koehler K77000/K77001 Automatic Cloud and Pour Point Analyzer platform provides an ASTM-aligned approach for automated cold-flow evaluation, combining optical cloud point detection with automatic tilt-based pour point determination (in accordance with ASTM D5771 and ASTM D5950, respectively). The system automates two historically observation-dependent measurements by means of integrating controlled low-temperature cooling, wireless cloud and pour point head assemblies, optical detection, programmed test methods, real-time temperature graphing, and stored/exportable result handling. ASTM D5771 provides automatic cloud point determination for transparent petroleum products and biodiesel fuels using an optical device, while ASTM D5950 determines pour point by tilting the test jar during cooling and optically detecting surface movement of the specimen. Through a reduction of reliance on repeated manual observation while simultaneously retaining the recognized ASTM method structure, the platform enables reproducible cold-flow characterization for quality control, formulation development, comparative product evaluation, and routine petroleum laboratory testing. This automated methodology delivers a standardized model for assessing low-temperature operability, maintaining workflow consistency, and improving the reliability of cloud and pour point measurements in modern fuel and lubricant analysis.
Abstract # 124 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advancements in Measuring Dropping Point of Greases
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
The project, “Automation of the Manual Dropping Point Test,” aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of grease dropping point measurements performed according to ASTM D2265. Over the past year, a team composed of interns from Farmingdale State College, conducted experimental testing to evaluate alternative temperature sensing methods for the traditional manual procedure. Experiments were carried out using a multitude of different grease samples, with each test repeated multiple times to assess repeatability and reproducibility. Three temperature sensing approaches were initially investigated, mercury thermometers, thermistors, and k-type thermocouples. Through vigorous testing and analysis, thermistors were eliminated due to inconsistent performance. K-type thermocouples demonstrated improved accuracy and precision when compared with conventional thermometer readings, leading the team to focus further development on thermocouple-based measurement. Custom components were designed and manufactured to accommodate different thermocouple configurations and to study the effects of sensor positioning and minor mechanical variations on measurement consistency. The collected data were used to evaluate agreement with traditional thermometer measurements and to assess reproducibility across repeated trials. In parallel, the project is exploring automation of dropping point detection through a camera-based monitoring system capable of identifying the moment the drop occurs. Current work focuses on evaluating commercially available cameras that can integrate with existing laboratory equipment. Rather than designing a new instrument, this work emphasizes the development of a retrofit solution compatible with current industry instrumentation.
Abstract # 128 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Precision Air Conditioning in Octane Testing: New Developments in Automating Humidity and Temperature Control for Enhanced RON/MON
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Accurate octane rating of spark-ignition engine fuels relies heavily on the precise control of environmental variables during testing. Variations in intake air temperature and humidity can significantly skew Research and Motor Octane Number (RON/MON) determinations, leading to inconsistent fuel quality assessments and downstream operational inefficiencies. To mitigate these risks, advanced air conditioning systems have been developed to deliver precise, automated environmental control in accordance with stringent standards. This poster presents recent advancements in intake air conditioning for octane test engines, exploring the functionality and application of the Koehler K90900-A Air Humidity Cabinet. The system utilizes a tube-and-fin cooling exchanger and a refrigerated ethylene glycol circulating loop to dehumidify and chill intake air to a constant 25–50 grains of moisture per pound of dry air, strictly conforming to ASTM D2699, ASTM D2700, and ASTM D2885 specifications. Furthermore, the unit features an integrated coolant circulation system connected via quick-couplings dedicated to chilling the carburetor and fuel bowl, ensuring critical thermal stability of the fuel sample during evaluation. Maintaining these exact atmospheric and thermal conditions provides the fundamental consistency required for accurate and reproducible octane ratings. The integration of automated, real-time monitored air control instrumentation with standard testing protocols streamlines laboratory workflows and replaces traditional ice towers. These advancements are driving greater precision in fuel quality control, contributing to optimized engine performance and highly reliable refinery operations.
Abstract # 130 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advanced Water Washout Testing for Evaluating Grease Resistance and Performance Under Water Exposure
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Water contamination is a key cause of lubricant breakdown, corrosion, and early bearing failure in industrial and automotive machinery. This makes it vital to assess how well grease can resist water exposure for dependable equipment operation. This poster discusses recent developments in testing grease water resistance using the Koehler Water Washout Tester. This instrument measures the water washout properties of lubricating greases under controlled lab conditions, following ASTM D1264, ASTM D4950, IP 215, and related international standards. The system checks how well grease stays in a bearing when exposed to a continuous water spray. It does this by rotating a lubricated ASTM ball bearing at 600 rpm while directing a controlled stream of water at specific temperature and flow rates. After testing, grease loss is calculated by weight, giving a clear and repeatable measure of water resistance performance. The apparatus includes a temperature-controlled reservoir for standard test temperatures, a calibrated spray nozzle, and a constant-flow circulation system to ensure consistent testing conditions. Additional features, like stable motor control, effective water circulation, and a user-friendly design, improve lab efficiency while following strict standardized methods. This system allows for precise evaluation of grease retention under water exposure, aiding in lubricant formulation development, quality control programs, and the choice of high-performance greases for challenging industrial, marine, and automotive uses.
Abstract # 131 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Mechanical Shear-Induced Viscosity Loss in Polymer-Modified Lubricants: Evaluation with Use of Diesel Injector & Other Techniques
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Mechanical shear degradation is a crucial factor governing the lifetime performance of polymer-modified lubricating oils, specifically in applications where fluids are repeatedly subjected to high-stress circulation through pumps, injectors, bearings, and engine components. Under such conditions, mechanical scission of viscosity-modifying polymers can produce permanent reductions in kinematic viscosity, compromising film formation, load-bearing capacity, and wear protection. The Koehler K95791 Shear Stability Tester is a European diesel injector apparatus designed for controlled assessment of viscosity loss, providing a reproducible standardized shear stability evaluation (in accordance with ASTM D6278, ASTM D7109, IP 294, DIN 51382, and CEC L-14-93). The apparatus subjects the test fluid to repeated passage through a diesel injector nozzle, applying controlled mechanical stress through the incorporation of a fluid reservoir, a double-plunger injection pump, an atomization chamber, a pressure monitoring system, and a fluid cooling vessel to maintain defined operating conditions. By comparing pre- and post-shear kinematic viscosity at 100 °C, this method produces a quantitative measure of permanent viscosity loss. This loss is principally attributed to mechanical degradation, while limiting thermal and oxidative contributions. The resulting shear stability data yield essential information for lubricant formulation, polymer additive evaluation, quality control, and the comparative assessment of fluids intended for high-stress service environments. This methodical approach provides a reproducible structure for evaluating lubricant durability and supporting performance-based formulation decisions.
Abstract # 132 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
New Developments in Standard-Compliant System for Evaluating Lubricant Friction, Wear, and Load-Carrying Performance
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
A testing system designed to evaluate the wear, friction, and load-carrying performance of lubricants under controlled conditions. The instrument complies with internationally recognized standards, including ASTM D2266, D4172, D5183, D2596, D2783, CEC L-45-A-99, IP 239, IP 300, and DIN 513. The tester operates on the four-ball principle, where a rotating 12.7 mm steel ball comes into contact with three stationary steel balls immersed in lubricant. The upper ball can rotate at speeds up to 2000 RPM, while loads up to 1000 kg are applied using a servo-pneumatic closed-loop loading system. Frictional force is measured through a high-resolution digital load cell, and important parameters such as temperature, load, speed, friction force, and coefficient of friction are continuously monitored using integrated data acquisition software. The system supports different loading modes, including constant, incremental, decremental, and step-wise loading, allowing detailed study of lubricant behavior and Stribeck curve analysis. Additional features such as a 15-inch multi-touch control panel, precise AC servo motor speed control, temperature control up to 200°C, and customizable test protocols make the instrument reliable and user-friendly for advanced lubricant performance evaluation.
Abstract # 133 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
The Transition to PC-12 Lubricant Standards in 2027
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Virginia Tech
Proposed Category 12 (PC-12), scheduled for first licensing on January 1, 2027, is the upcoming American Petroleum Institute (API) standard for heavy-duty engine oil. The transition to using PC-12 is a significant change, key to complying with the new mandates from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). These new protocols intend to reduce the environmental footprint of the heavy-duty transport sector. The objective for PC-12 is the Clean Trucks Plan, which requires a 90% reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions and a 50% reduction in particulate matter (PM) compared to current levels. Furthermore, these regulations state that engine aftertreatment systems (ATS) must last significantly longer. It mandates an increase from roughly 435,000 miles to 800,000 miles. This requires a chemical “box”, which aims to protect hardware while continuing to support the higher operating temperatures of next-generation engines.
PC-12 is an improvement over the previous standard PC-11 (CK-4 and FA-4) but introduces advancements to meet 2027 requirements. As a case point, PC-12 imposes tighter limits on Sulfated Ash, Phosphorus, and Sulfur (SAPS). By reducing these elements, it prevents catalyst poisoning and Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) clogging. Furthermore, PC-12 has superior oxidation resistance over PC-11, which blocks oil thickening and sludge under stress. Additionally, PC-12 includes lower viscosity grades compared to PC-11, improving engine efficiency. By introducing PC-12, it updates methods on how engine oils are tested to better reflect how powerful engines run.
Transitioning into the use of PC-12 creates a multitude of environmental and operational impacts. By supporting a 10-15% increase in fuel efficiency due to lower viscosity and reduced friction, PC-12 lowers greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the increased oxidation stability allows for the reduction of the volume of waste oil generated.
The shift into the use of PC-12 is an essential change guided by environmental legislation and hardware advancements. By refining lubricant chemistry to protect emissions, PC-12 will help reduce chemicals that are detrimental to air quality. PC-12 is a major improvement over the standard, helping vehicles with heavy-duty engines use less fuel and last longer.
Abstract # 134 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Why PC-12? — What to Expect
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Michigan State University
In response to the new advancements and stricter requirements faced by heavy-duty diesel engines, a new oil standard known as Proposed Category 12 or PC-12 is being developed. Compared to API CK-4 and FA-4, the current standards, PC-12 oils feature lower sulfated ash, phosphorus, and sulfur content, lower viscosity, and enhanced oxidation resistance to further improve fuel economy. PC-12 also supports the new regulations set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which are aimed at reducing nitrogen oxide, particulate matter, and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as extending the service life of engines and after-treatment systems. PC-12 is set to launch on January 1, 2027, aligning with the release of model year 2027 diesel engines, and introduces two distinct categories designed for both the current and the next generation of diesel engines.
Abstract # 135 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advanced Biofuels: Recent Breakthroughs Using Genetic Engineering, AI Optimization, and Waste Valorization
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- University of Illinois
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
As demand for worldwide energy continues to expand, reliance on fossil fuels remains unsustainable, expanding the need for research and development in alternative fuels. Within the last three years, the biofuel industry has been reimagined with policy-driven commercialization, genetic engineering, and reduction of waste byproducts – an evolution brought on by several recent biological, procedural, and market developments. In algae-based biofuels, advancements in the CRISPR/Cas9 system have opened avenues for enhanced lipid production, improved metabolic pathways, and better fuel yield, leading to more precise and effective genetic modification in algae and improved scalability within fourth generation (4G) biofuels.
Furthermore, algae can be used for carbon sequestration, and enhancing this ability through genetic modification can mediate cultivation costs. Beyond the marine sector, the commercialization of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) has seen major developments in its scalability. Machine learning and AI have contributed to selecting feedstocks and molecules during the production process, enhancing its quality and optimizing production parameters such as temperature and amount of catalyst. Government mandates, specifically in European countries, and major airline initiatives have reinforced these developments utilizing different conversion processes without compromising airline architecture. In waste valorization during biodiesel production, acetalization of glycerol into solketal before electrolysis prevents carbon-carbon cleavage, greatly improving glyceric acid selectivity and hydrogen production, elevating biodiesel commerciality and cost effectiveness. These breakthroughs supported by evolving policies provide a reliable blueprint for the future of biofuels, with opportunity for further research and industry usage.
Abstract # 136 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
High-Precision Emission Monitoring: Improving the Sensitivity of Instrumentation Used to Detect Trace Leaks and VOCs at Refineries
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- University of California, Los Angeles
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Increasingly stringent environmental regulations and growing concerns regarding air quality have accelerated the development of high-precision emission monitoring technologies within the petroleum refining industry. Fugitive emissions and equipment leaks release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to atmospheric pollution, regulatory noncompliance, and operational safety risks. Recent research has focused on enhancing the sensitivity and accuracy of analytical instrumentation, leading to substantial improvements in technologies such as Optical Gas Imaging (OGI), Proton Transfer Reaction Mass Spectrometry (PTR-MS), Tunable Diode Laser Absorption Spectroscopy (TDLAS), and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. These systems are now capable of detecting VOC emissions at parts-per-billion concentrations while providing faster response times and greater measurement precision than conventional leak detection methods. Complementing these technological developments, the integration of wireless sensor networks, automated data analytics, and machine learning algorithms has improved real-time monitoring, leak localization, and emission quantification across refinery operations. Continuous monitoring platforms and remote sensing technologies have further expanded detection coverage and enabled earlier identification of emission sources. Although challenges remain in reducing measurement uncertainty and maintaining accuracy under varying environmental conditions, recent developments have significantly strengthened refinery-level VOC monitoring capabilities. Collectively, these advancements demonstrate the growing role of intelligent sensing systems in improving environmental compliance, operational safety, and sustainable refinery operations.
Abstract # 137 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Advanced Tribological Testing: Innovations in Testing Modern Lubricants Using Pin-on-Disk Methods and Wear-Scar Analysis Standards
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
When an electric vehicle is in use, a small amount of electrical charge is generated by the motor and builds up in a rotating rod within it called a “shaft.” From there, the charge travels through the lubricant to reach the bearing, causing damage and wearing it out. With the rising popularity of electric vehicles, conventional standards and regulations cannot be applied the same way. For this reason, researchers Leonardo Israel Farfan Cabrera, Seungjoo Lee, Sean Skowron, and Ali Erdemir adapted the pin-on-disk setup to analyze the extent of damage to the bearing. Following ASTM G99-17, they added their own modifications to replicate the electric vehicle conditions. A simulated electrical charge was distributed evenly across the metal disk through a carbon brush while the entire apparatus was covered by an airtight plexiglass box to control the atmosphere. As for wear-scar analysis, they utilized an optical profilometer to get an accurate measurement of the wear volume on the pin and calculated “Disk volume loss” through the approximation equation. After running 12 different tests, they were able to identify that electricity in the presence of normal air will drastically increase metal degradation, regardless of the type of lubricant. Thus, they came up with the term “electro-tribo-oxidation,” implying that oxidation is accelerated when in the presence of electrical charges in EVs. Conversely, an environment with only nitrogen decreased wear by almost 50%, and with the addition of electricity, the results were the same as those of a regular pin-on-disk under standard conditions. This innovation makes it possible to design or evaluate modern lubricants that are specifically formulated for electric vehicles and significantly reduce wear of metallic components.
Abstract # 138 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
The Implementation of Robotics in Analytical Petroleum Research
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Robotics proves its advancements in petroleum research based on a few key ideas. This consists of high precision, highly repeatable measurements, and maximum efficiency in comparison to traditional human methods. Robotics is the combination of multiple disciplines that can ultimately replicate human tasks.
In the aspect of testing sensitive properties like viscosity which require exact temperatures, the use of robotics can expose samples in a specific environment such as an oil bath for exact amounts of time or until the sample reaches an expected temperature. This whole interaction is a representative showcase of a robotic system which involves sensing (temperature sensor), feedback control (actuation when the temperature sensor reaches a certain value), and acting (removing the sample from the oil bath or regulated temperature environment). Robotics can also be used to assist research beyond the sample itself. Sample properties can change with the environment such as how the boiling point is dependent on atmospheric pressure. The use of Robotics has allowed the ability of active environmental pressure reading through barometers so that temperature values can be adjusted accordingly. According to the university of Liverpool, their robot Celisca was able to perform a full sonication dispersion test that included locating the sample, performing the test for 15 minutes, and cleaning the equipment all in 19 minutes on average. The robot performed 320 trials perfectly.
Data Collection is also a part of this, robots can capture precise measurements using mass flow meters, viscometers, mass spectrometers, and x-ray devices. This removes human error and allows for more detailed characterization of sample properties. Additionally, the cleaning of certain instruments can also be automated, which reduces contamination that may be left over from manual cleaning. It also removes the risk of having humans exposed to dangerous cleaning solvents.
Abstract # 139 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Leveraging Automated Distillation & Physical Property Instrumentation to Verify Distillation Curves & Flashpoints of New Bioblends
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Saint Louis University
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) are becoming a critical component in reducing carbon emissions from aviation, with the potential to cut lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. SAF is produced from renewable materials such as used cooking oil, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste through ASTM D7566-certified pathways, including HEFA, ATJ, and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. When bio-based components are blended with conventional Jet A, the resulting mixture can exhibit different volatility and ignition behavior. These property shifts must be measured and verified before any new SAF blend can be approved for commercial aviation use.
Distillation curves and flash points are two of the most important physical properties measured during SAF qualification. The distillation curve, determined per ASTM D86, describes the boiling range and volatility of a fuel across key recovery percentages to confirm that the blend will vaporize and combust correctly under flight conditions. Flash point, a key parameter for safe fuel storage, handling, and transport, is measured using the Pensky-Martens closed-cup method per ASTM D93 and identifies the lowest temperature at which fuel vapors will ignite. Both tests are required under ASTM D7566, and their results must meet the limits specified in ASTM D1655 before a SAF blend can be certified as Jet A fuel for commercial use.
A directly proportional relationship exists between distillation curves and flash points. Flash point is directly influenced by the light hydrocarbons present at the front end of the distillation curve. This makes distillation and flash point testing complementary; together they provide a more complete picture of how a bio-blend's properties compare to conventional Jet A. As SAF production works toward the global target of 80 million metric tons per year by 2050, demand for fast, reliable physical property testing will continue to grow. Automated instrumentation capable of efficiently screening new bio-blend formulations plays an important role in accelerating the qualification pipeline and bringing next-generation sustainable aviation fuels safely to market.
This poster reviews the use of Koehler automated distillation and flash point instrumentation for the evaluation of SAF bio-blends. The automated equipment provides precise temperature control and consistent testing conditions, enabling efficient and repeatable screening of fuel formulations. This review examines how these standardized tests identify property changes introduced by bio-based components, highlighting the value of reliable instrumentation for optimizing blend ratios and SAF qualification.
Abstract # 140 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Recent Advances in Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
The global aviation industry is experiencing significant growth in demand, with global passenger traffic projected to reach 10.2 billion [1] and air cargo traffic projected to grow by 2.6% in 2026 [2]. As developments in artificial intelligence optimize air cargo operations, fuel usage must also meet the requirements of the expanding aviation industry. Additionally, as air travel demand resumed following the decrease due to COVID-19, aviation emissions reached nearly 950 Mt of CO2 in 2023, accounting for over 90% of pre-pandemic levels [3]. This issue makes aviation one of the fastest-growing sectors for carbon emissions. Thus, the recent pressure of balancing a growing industry and its resulting environmental impacts adds to the urgent issue of global warming, which the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) aims to resolve. However, reports show that the current SAF production target set by the U.S. to be met by 2030 is not on track to be achieved because of conflicting policies and limited material supply for SAF formulation [4]. Therefore, it is crucial that the aviation industry strives to investigate and implement effective methods of SAF manufacturing to ensure continuous growth while alleviating its environmental impact through addressing technical challenges.
Abstract # 141 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Thermal Stability and Performance Analysis of Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs) in HPHT Downhole Operations
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Environmentally Acceptable Lubricants (EALs), a category of green tribology, are environmentally friendly alternatives to the synthetic lubricants normally used for lubricating drill bits in downhole operations. The current regulations set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), such as the Limitations Guidelines and Standards for Synthetic-Based Drilling Fluids, have recently placed greater pressure on current operators to cease use of the current synthetic lubricants and to use biodegradable alternatives in downhole operations. However, the critical question lies in whether the EALs offer tribology-based performance that is equivalent to or better than that of the synthetic lubricants. As environmental regulations continue to become more restrictive, an in-depth understanding of the various EALs and their performance under High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) downhole environments is required.
Most EALs cannot withstand high temperatures and most wells reach above 400°F. Many EALs lose their lubricating capacities, viscosity, and are unable to reduce friction at the drill bit as temperature reaches levels of around 200°F. A comparison-based model was developed based on a collection of all available technical data sheets and tribological performance data of EALs from major companies. The data is then compared and presented in terms of thermal degradation, viscosity indexes and friction-reducing performance. The mechanical limits of these “green” tribological solutions will be useful in controlling the usage of these biodegradable lubricants in frequent downhole applications without compromising the drill string in environmental regulations. The poster will discuss the thermal capacities of EALs and provide a data-driven standing for selection of the best environmentally acceptable lubricants for certain downhole operations that meet the EPA’s drive on a parallel note.
Abstract # 142 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
What are the Recent Advances in the Last Three Years Using AI and ML that Can Revolutionize the Petroleum Testing Laboratory?
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Petroleum testing laboratories are prevalent in regulating the usage of petroleum, a large part of the world’s energy supply. However, the high demand for petroleum suggests that it needs to be improved to maximize production efficiency and adapt to technological developments. Laboratories for fuel testing are separated into the upstream sector, the midstream sector, and the downstream sector; these sections ensure that there are no complications or dangers from using fuels in practice. Moreover, petroleum testing laboratories follow a refining process that ensures that the fuel meets regulations and safety standards. To ensure testing is efficient and effective, companies have begun testing new methods with automated technologies. Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are being explored to shift the way petroleum labs use systems and digital methods to revolutionize performance in the oil and gas industry. AI can arguably be used to solve existing problems by rapidly processing data with higher accuracy compared to manual methods. Multiple prior studies have been conducted to understand how AI affects performance in operational, financial, and environmental domains. Furthermore, there are studies to understand how ML algorithms such as artificial neural networks (ANN) and partial least squares (PLS) can optimize the refining process and streamline operations. Although prior research has been done to understand the implications of AI and ML across the oil and gas industry, few studies have been directed to explore the direct implications of smart systems in petroleum testing laboratories. The purpose of this study is to more specifically understand how recent technological advancements improve laboratory testing and accuracy. Thereby, the study aims to answer the following question: What are the recent advances in the last three years using AI and ML that can revolutionize the petroleum testing laboratory? Research has shown that using AI/ML for composition analysis, contamination detection, predictive modelling, automated image analysis, computer vision, process optimization, and data management fields shows strong potential for improvements in cost, efficiency, accuracy, and speed for petroleum testing.
Abstract # 143 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Renewable Diesel vs. Biodiesel vs. Petroleum Diesel
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Louisiana State University
Despite the demand for more sustainable fuels, comprehensive comparisons among
renewable diesel, biodiesel, and petroleum diesel are limited. Previous studies have evaluated
fuels using specific experimental conditions and fuel formulations, without directly comparing
significant performance and operational characteristics. This study presents the differences
between renewable diesel, biodiesel, and petroleum diesel with respect to performance, lubricity,
cold-flow behavior, emissions, and infrastructure compatibility using a comparative literature
synthesis. The results revealed that renewable diesel has greater infrastructure compatibility and
significant performance characteristics, like high flash point and cetane number, whereas
biodiesel has greater lubricity but a high cloud point. In contrast, petroleum diesel has favorable
cold flow properties, but both renewable diesel and biodiesel emit lower amounts of toxic
pollutants. This research demonstrates each fuel has distinct benefits and drawbacks between
performance, environmental impact, and operational compatibility. The study encourages further
exploration of fuel mixes to maximize efficiency and compatibility while prioritizing emissions.
Abstract # 144 - Poster - 10/14/2026 - 1:00 PM - Exhibit Hall Entrance
Evaluation of Grease Degradation and Water Resistance for Rapid Lubricant Health Monitoring
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
- Koehler Instrument Company, Inc.
Monitoring grease degradation and water resistance for lubricants is essential for predicting its failure. This research was done with a new process using a contact angle machine to assess grease health, which is faster and more optimal compared to older tests. One example of an older test is worked penetration, which can miss early warning signs. In our procedure, we prepared a uniform spread of grease sample and a small water droplet from a pump is deposited onto the surface of the sample. A camera displays the shape of the droplet and software calculates the contact angle. The angle measurement given can be related to the grease’s hydrophobic characteristic and watching how much water gets absorbed by the grease over time reveals its degradation from oxidation or moisture. We validated our contact angle results by comparing them to standard tests which contained similar results. Using this method, the tests are both consistent and repeatable. Overall, the contact angle technique gives us a quick and reliable way to check grease conditions, making it a practical tool for quality checks and maintenance planning.
