Rigaku NEX QC benchtop EDXRF analyser for sulfur in oil

Applied Rigaku Technologies has announced the publication of an application note for the analysis of sulfur (S) in oil per ASTM D4294. Application Note #1135 demonstrates the efficacy of the Rigaku NEX QC benchtop energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) analyser for this measurement.

Sulfur will always be an important element in crude and fuel oils, and plays a significant role in fuel quality as well as in the control of polluting emissions. Worldwide, regulations limit allowable sulfur content in diesel fuels, kerosene, heating oils and similar fuels. Jet fuels also rely on the measurement of sulfur content to ensure optimum fuel properties and maintain emission standards. The monitoring of sulfur content, from characterising, blending and refining crude oil, to the production of various fuel oils therefore continues to be an essential analysis.

The method described in the application note complies with international standards for measuring sulfur in crude and petroleum oils and demonstrates the ability of the NEX QC, a benchtop EDXRF analyser, to yield good results for the measurement of sulfur in diesel fuel in air, without the need for helium purge.