4.1 This test method provides a means of monitoring the sulfur level of various petroleum products and additives. This knowledge can be used to predict performance, handling, or processing properties. In some cases the presence of sulfur compounds is beneficial to the product and monitoring the depletion of sulfur can provide useful information. In other cases the presence of sulfur compounds is detrimental to the processing or use of the product.

1.1 This test method covers procedures for the determination of total sulfur in petroleum products including lubricating oils containing additives, and in additive concentrates. This test method is applicable to samples boiling above 177 °C (350 °F). Other sulfur concentrations outside of those listed in 1.1.1 and 1.1.2 may be analyzed, but the precision stated may or may not apply. These procedures use IR detection or TCD following combustion in a furnace.

1.1.1 Procedure A, IR Detection: 

1.1.1.1 This procedure is applicable to samples containing a mass fraction of sulfur between 0.22 % and 24.2 %.

1.1.1.2 Petroleum coke containing a mass fraction of sulfur between 2.53 % to 3.79 % sulfur may be analyzed.

1.1.2 Procedure B, TCD Detection: 

1.1.2.1 This procedure is applicable to samples containing a mass fraction of sulfur between 0.071 % and 25.8 %.

1.1.2.2 Petroleum coke containing a mass fraction of sulfur between 0.19 % to 6.38 % sulfur may be analyzed.

1.2 Petroleum coke containing a mass fraction of sulfur between 2.53 % to 3.79 % sulfur may be analyzed. Other sulfur concentrations may be analyzed, but the precision stated may or may not apply.

Note 1: The D1552 – 08 (2014) version of this standard contained two other procedures using iodate titrations. Since these procedures are no longer being used in the industry laboratories based on a survey of D02.SC 3 laboratories conducted in September 2014, they are being deleted. For earlier information on the deleted procedures, D1552 – 08 (2014) may be perused.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.