ASTM D5453 Determination of Total Sulfur in Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, Diesel Engine Fuel, and Engine Oil by UV Fluorescence

ASTM D5453 describes a method for determining the total sulfur content in the range from 1.0 mg/kg to 8000 mg/kg of sulfur. It can be used for liquid hydrocarbons with boiling points in the range of 25 to 400 °C and viscosities in the range of 0.2 to 20 cSt. This includes samples such as naphtha, distillation fractions, engine oil, ethanol, fatty acid methyl ester (FAME), fuels such as gasoline and gasoline/ethanol mixtures (E-85, M-85, RFG), diesel, biodiesel and diesel/biodiesel mixtures (B7, B100) as well as turbine engine fuels (kerosene, jet fuel). 

The methodology described in the standard is based on the complete high-temperature combustion of the sample in an oxygen atmosphere, in which the sulfur contained in the sample is converted to sulfur dioxide (SO₂). This is followed by the quantitative measurement of the sulfur contained in the sample by means of UV fluorescence detection (UVFD) and a previously created calibration. 

The ASTM D5453 standard is particularly relevant for refineries, quality control laboratories and manufacturers of fuel alternatives such as biodiesel, bioethanol and additives. To reduce sulfur dioxide emissions, global limits apply to the sulfur content of fuels and combustibles, and compliance is subject to strict controls. To this end, regulatory authorities typically set out the maximum allowable level of sulfur in the product specifications for these refinery products. 

Sulfur determination according to ASTM D5453 is the preferred method for monitoring compliance with these regulatory requirements. Process optimization and protection of sensitive catalyst beds is another important consideration. In addition to nitrogen and chlorine, sulfur compounds also contribute to premature aging of catalysts. Continuous monitoring of the sulfur content is therefore an elementary task in refinery operations and other downstream applications, such as chemical industry. 

Analytik Jena has over 20 years of experience in chemical analysis specifically for refineries and the petrochemical industry. With the elemental analyzers of the multi EA 5100 and compEAct series, we offer high-quality analyzers that meet the sulfur determination requirements of ASTM D5453. The compEAct's ease of operation and astonishingly short analysis time enables it to greatly increase your throughput rate. The multi EA 5100, a CNSX elemental analyzer delivers optimal measurement results regardless of the matrix type, thanks to its Double Furnace technology and innovative flame sensor technology– from highly volatile liquids to  highly viscous vacuum distillation residues.

Our solutions for ASTM D5453

Sources

• Norm ASTM D 5453 – Standard Test Method for Determination of Total Sulfur in Light Hydrocarbons, Spark Ignition Engine Fuel, Diesel Engine Fuel, and Engine Oil by Ultraviolet Fluorescence