ASTM D5623 for sulfur compounds in light petroleum liquids
ASTM D5623 standard test method for sulfur compounds in light petroleum liquids by gas chromatography and sulfur selective detection
3. Summary of Test Method
3.1 The sample is analyzed by gas chromatography with an appropriate sulfur selective detector. Calibration is achieved by the use of an appropriate internal or external standard. All sulfur compounds are assumed to produce equivalent response as sulfur.
3.2 Sulfur Detection - As sulfur compounds elute from the gas chromatographic column they are quantified by a sulfur selective detector that produces a linear and equimolar response to sulfur compounds; for example, a sulfur chemiluminescence detector or atomic emission detector used in the sulfur channel.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Gas chromatography with sulfur selective detection provides a rapid means to identify and quantify sulfur compounds in various petroleum feeds and products. Often these materials contain varying amounts and types of sulfur compounds. Many sulfur compounds are odorous, corrosive to equipment, and inhibit or destroy catalysts employed in downstream processing. The ability to speciate sulfur compounds in various petroleum liquids is useful in controlling sulfur compounds in finished products and is frequently more important than knowledge of the total sulfur content alone.
