Contamination Elements

Silicon is the principal component of dirt and it is found in its natural and oxidative form as silica. It is harder than any metal used in mobile equipment and can scratch hard surfaces easily.  In new engines, its presence could indicate liquid silicon material used as sealant during assembly. It typically washes out after first oil change. Silica (the oxidative form of silicone) appears in nature associated with alumina in a typical 5 to 1 ratio. Silicon up to approximately 10-15 ppm may reflect presence of silicone oil based anti-foam additive.

Aluminum is generally present in association with silica in a 1 to 5 ratio and enters together with dirt. It enters the system in its oxidative form as alumina, or in combination with silicon as aluminium silicate and it is extremely hard.  Aluminum is the most abundant metal in the world.

Potassium may be present in coolant formulations and it is not an additive for engine oils as such, although some small readings of about 2 to 3 PPM could sometimes be indicated. When combined with sodium and sometimes with boron, it is a confirmation of coolant contamination.

Sodium may also be present in  coolant formulations but also in many salts, or seawater. In small amounts it can be found as an additive, however, if its presence is associated with potassium and/or boron it is a confirmation of glycol contamination.