5.1 Some process catalysts used in refining can be poisoned when trace amounts of sulfur bearing materials are contained in the feedstocks. There are also government regulations as to how much sulfur is permitted to be present in commercial transportation fuels. This test method can be used to determine sulfur in process and downstream distribution streams. It can also be used for purposes of screening and quality control of finished hydrocarbon fuel products.

1.1 This test method covers the determination of total sulfur in liquid hydrocarbon based fuel with a final boiling point of up to 450 °C. It is applicable to analysis of natural, processed and final product materials containing sulfur in the range of 4.0 mg/kg to 830 mg/kg (see Note 1).

Note 1: For liquid hydrocarbons containing less than 4.0 mg/kg total sulfur or more than 830 mg/kg total sulfur, Test Method D5453 may be more appropriate.

1.2 This test method is applicable for total sulfur determination in liquid hydrocarbons containing less than 0.35 % (m/m) halogen(s).

1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this 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 specific hazard statements, see 4.1, 8.3, and Section 9.