This test method provides rapid and precise measurement of total sulfur in petroleum products with a minimum of sample preparation. A typical analysis time is 2 to 4 min per sample.

The quality of many petroleum products is related to the amount of sulfur present. Knowledge of sulfur concentration is necessary for processing purposes. There are also regulations promulgated in federal, state, and local agencies that restrict the amount of sulfur present in some fuels.

This test method provides a means of compliance with specifications or limits set by regulations for sulfur content of petroleum products.

If this test method is applied to petroleum matrices with significantly different composition than the white oil calibration materials specified in this test method, the cautions and recommendations in Section 5 should be observed when interpreting the results.

Compared to other test methods for sulfur determination, Test Method D 4294 has high throughput, minimal sample preparation, good precision, and is capable of determining sulfur over a wide range of concentrations. The equipment specified is in most cases less costly than that required for alternative methods. Consult the ASTM website² or ASTM Subject Index³ for names of alternative test methods.

1.1 This test method covers the measurement of sulfur in hydrocarbons, such as diesel, naphtha, kerosine, residuals, lubricating base oils, hydraulic oils, jet fuels, crude oils, gasoline (all unleaded), and other distillates. In addition, sulfur in other products, such as M-85 and M-100, may be analyzed using this technique. The applicable concentration range is 0.0150 to 5.00 mass % sulfur.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The preferred concentration units are mass % sulfur.

1.3 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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For specific warning statements, see Section 7.