ASTM D4045 Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products
ASTM D4045 Standard Test Method for Sulfur in Petroleum Products by Hydrogenolysis and Rateometric Colorimetry
3. Summary of Test Method
3.1 The sample is injected at a constant rate into a flowing hydrogen stream in a hydrogenolysis apparatus. The sample and hydrogen are pyrolyzed at a temperature of 1300°C, or above, to convert sulfur compounds to hydrogen sulfide (H2S). Readout is by the rateometric detection of the colorimetric reaction of H2S with lead acetate. Condensable components are converted to gaseous products, such as methane, during hydrogenolysis.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 In many petroleum refining processes, low levels of sulfur in feed stocks may poison expensive catalysts. This test method can be used to monitor the amount of sulfur in such petroleum fractions.
4.2 This test method may also be used as a quality-control tool for sulfur determination in finished products.
