QUALITY CONTROL OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS (PMS AND AGO)

This study addressed the critical challenge of ensuring consistent Quality Control for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) in Nigeria's downstream petroleum sector, a necessity for protecting engine longevity, consumer interests, and public health from substandard fuels. The investigation solved this by collecting representative samples of PMS and AGO from two major depots in the Calabar area. Rigorous laboratory analysis was performed using standard ASTM methods, determining key parameters such as density, flash point, distillation profile, octane numbers (for PMS), and sulfur content. The results confirmed that all PMS samples were fully compliant with the specifications set by SON, ASTM, and ECOWAS. For AGO, a key finding was a measured sulfur content of 0.0091%wt (91 ppm) and 0.0089%wt (89 ppm), which, while meeting the national standard, was observed to be slightly higher than the regional ECOWAS 50 ppm benchmark and all other parameters were complaint. This work concludes that although depot-source fuel is compliant with national standards, chronic issues like limited field-testing capacity and inconsistent regulatory enforcement pose a risk to fuel quality in the distribution network. It recommends continuous quality monitoring and modernization of testing facilities to improve fuel integrity. The findings are directly applicable to enhancing Nigeria's fuel quality monitoring system and reducing environmental pollution by ensuring fuel quality compliance nationwide.