8.1 Dry the sample by shaking vigorously for 3 to 5 min
with about 10 volume % of a suitable drying agent such as
anhydrous calcium sulfate or anhydrous sodium sulfate. Reduce
the viscosity of viscous samples by warming to a
temperature below that which would cause the loss of light
ends or the dehydration of the drying agent. Remove any
suspended drying agent by use of a centrifuge or by filtration.
Heat samples containing separated wax until they are homogeneous
and keep heated during filtration or centrifugation to
ensure against separation of wax. When suspended water is
visibly present and the sample material is known to dissolve
less than 0.03 mass % of water, the use of a centrifuge for the
removal of suspended water is an acceptable procedure.