MACHEREY-NAGEL Oil Test Paper Strips 100-Pack — Light Blue Hydrocarbon Detection, Quick Field Checks

These light-blue MACHEREY-NAGEL oil test strips provide an immediate visual color change to dark blue when hydrocarbons such as gasoline, fuel oil, or lubricating oil are present.

Designed for quick field checks of water and soil, the 90760 oil test paper comes as a box of 100 single-use strips that change color upon contact with a range of hydrocarbons. The paper is easy to use without instruments: dip or swab the strip in the suspect sample and watch for a prompt color shift. Because the reaction depends on the volatility and solubility of the contaminant, some hydrocarbons require immediate reading while others give a lasting signal.

How do I use these strips to detect oil in water?

To test water, simply move a strip back and forth through the sample a few times so the paper contacts dissolved or suspended hydrocarbons. Inspect the strip right away for volatile compounds; less volatile residues may show color that remains visible longer.

• Dip the strip into water and agitate gently several times.
• Observe immediately for rapid color change with volatile hydrocarbons.
• Compare strip color to previous tests or known clean sample for a qualitative result.

What is the correct technique for testing soil or sediment?

For soil checks, press the strip firmly against the area to pick up residues, then rinse with clear water to transfer any hydrocarbons to the paper. Evaluate the color change right away for volatile substances; non-volatile oils may still produce a visible dark-blue stain after rinsing.

• Press the strip directly onto the soil surface to collect contaminants.
• Rinse the contact area with clear water so residues transfer to the paper.
• Read the result immediately for best response to volatile hydrocarbons.

What are the limits and sensitivity of the oil test paper?

Sensitivity depends on the hydrocarbon’s solubility and volatility: more soluble or more volatile compounds often give a faster, stronger color response. The strips are intended for rapid qualitative screening rather than precise quantification; use laboratory analysis for concentration measurement.

• Detects a wide range of hydrocarbons including gasoline, fuel oil and lubricants.
• Best for quick field screening and site checks.
• Not a substitute for laboratory-grade quantification methods.

How should I handle and store the test strips for reliable results?

Keep the box sealed and store at normal room conditions to protect reagent integrity. Use strips individually, avoid touching the reactive surface, and read results promptly when testing volatile contaminants.

• Store in the original box away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Handle strips by the edges to prevent contamination.
• Read volatile hydrocarbon reactions immediately after sampling.

Who is this for: MACHEREY-NAGEL 90760 oil test paper is built for field technicians, environmental consultants, emergency responders, maintenance crews, educators, and anyone needing a fast, portable screening method for hydrocarbon contamination in water and soil. It suits routine site checks, spill triage, equipment maintenance inspections, classroom demonstrations, and preliminary surveys where a simple, visual indication of oil presence is needed. For regulatory compliance or accurate concentration data, follow up with accredited laboratory analysis.