Application of Raman Spectroscopy for the Analysis of Methyl Acetate Dissolved in Transformer Oil

As a new mark of internal insulation degradation, the analysis of methyl acetate in transformer oil has attracted considerable attention. Confocal Laser Raman spectroscopy (CLRS) could accomplish the non-destructive and non-contact detection for the liquid samples, which is more suitable for online monitoring and in-situ detection. In this study, the feasibility of CLRS method applied in the analysis of methyl acetate dissolved in transformer oil has been verified. The molecule structure model of methyl acetate has been constructed by Gauss View software, and its Raman spectrum was analyzed theoretically. Then, different oil samples containing methyl acetate was detected by the CLRS test platform. In order to perform qualitative and quantitative analysis, the Raman spectral peak at 628 cm^-1 was selected as characteristic Raman peak. Moreover, the quantitative analysis method was calculated by the least square method and internal standard method. CLRS method can be applied in the qualitative and quantitative analysis of methyl acetate in transformer oil, which provide a useful approach for online monitoring and in-situ analysis of methyl acetate in transformer oil.