4.1 The presence and concentration of various metallic elements in a petroleum coke are major factors in the suitability of the coke for various uses. This test method provides a means of measuring the amounts of those metallic elements in the coke sample.

4.2 The concentration of these elements is one factor in determining the economic value of the coke. Coke used for production of electrodes will have different specification requirements dependent on what service the electrodes will be used in. Generally the fuel cokes are highest in metallic element concentration and have the least economic value.

4.3 The test method provides a standard procedure for use by the purchaser and seller in the commercial transfer of petroleum coke to determine whether the lot of coke meets the specifications of the purchasing party.

1.1 This test method covers the analysis for the commonly determined trace metals (aluminum, calcium, iron, nickel, silicon, sodium, and vanadium) in laboratory analysis samples of raw and calcined petroleum coke by atomic absorption spectroscopy.

1.2 The elemental concentration ranges for which this test method is applicable and the limits of detection of this test method are listed in Table 1.

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard.

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 and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. For warning statements, see Sections 8 – 10.