This test method determines total sulfur in automotive fuels with a typical analysis time around 10 min per sample.

The quality of automotive fuel is related to the amount of sulfur present. Knowledge of sulfur level is necessary for processing purposes.

Sulfur level in automotive fuels affects performance characteristics and air quality. Federal, state, and local agencies regulate the level of sulfur in fuel delivered at the pump.

This test method can be referenced in specification documents to determine if the material meets the desired sulfur content.

If this test method is applied to petroleum matrices with significantly different composition to those used in the interlaboratory precision study, then the caution and recommendations in Section 6 should be observed when interpreting the results.

1.1 This test method specifies an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) method for the determination of the total sulfur content of automotive fuels with a concentration range from 7 mg/kg to 50 mg/kg.

1.1.1 The pooled limit of quantitation of this test method as obtained by statistical analysis of interlaboratory test results is 7 mg/kg sulfur.

1.2 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The preferred concentration units are mg/kg 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.