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D1552-23 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
🔬 Standard Scope and Detection Methods
ASTM D1552-23 specifies procedures for the determination of total sulfur in petroleum products, including lubricating oils containing additives and additive concentrates. It is also applicable to petroleum coke. The test method is suitable for samples with a boiling point above 177°C (350°F). Two detection techniques are covered: Infrared (IR) detection in Procedure A and Thermal Conductivity Detection (TCD) in Procedure B. The standard provides specific sulfur concentration ranges for each procedure, with the option to analyze other concentrations, though precision may vary.
| 🟦 Procedure | 📐 Detection Method | 📏 Sulfur Mass Fraction (%) | 🎯 Petroleum Coke Sulfur (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Procedure A | Infrared (IR) | 0.22 – 24.2 | 2.53 – 3.79 |
| Procedure B | Thermal Conductivity (TCD) | 0.071 – 25.8 | 0.19 – 6.38 |
The values in SI units are considered standard. This standard has been approved by U.S. Department of Defense agencies and follows international standardization principles.
⚙️ Combustion and Measurement Procedure
The test involves weighing a sample and introducing it into a furnace with an oxygen-rich atmosphere to ensure complete combustion. For Procedure A, the furnace temperature is maintained between 1150°C and 1450°C, while Procedure B uses a constant temperature of 1150°C. The sulfur in the sample is converted to sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which is then measured using an IR detector or TCD after moisture and particulates are removed via traps.
⚠️ Important Note: The D1552-23 revision has deleted the iodate titration procedures that were present in earlier versions. For historical data, refer to D1552-08 (2014).
Quality assurance is emphasized through references to ASTM practices such as D4057 for manual sampling, D4177 for automatic sampling, D6299 for statistical quality control, D6300 for precision and bias, and D6792 for laboratory quality management.
📊 Key Specifications and Precision
The precision data for this test method were determined through collaborative studies following D6300. The results are specific to the sulfur concentration ranges listed for each procedure. Users should verify method performance for samples with sulfur content outside these ranges, as the stated precision may not apply. Safety, health, and environmental practices must be followed per regulatory requirements.
💡 For accurate results, sample preparation and handling should comply with the referenced standards. The combustion furnace must be properly calibrated for temperature and oxygen flow.
This test method was developed in accordance with internationally recognized standardization principles, ensuring global consistency.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the scope of ASTM D1552-23?
It covers total sulfur measurement in petroleum products, including additives and petroleum coke, using high temperature combustion with IR or TCD detection, and is applicable to samples boiling above 177°C.
💡 What are the detection methods and their ranges?
Procedure A (IR) is applicable for sulfur mass fractions from 0.22% to 24.2%, and for petroleum coke from 2.53% to 3.79%. Procedure B (TCD) covers 0.071% to 25.8% and 0.19% to 6.38% for petroleum coke.
⚡ What temperatures are used in the furnace?
Procedure A operates between 1150°C and 1450°C, while Procedure B uses a fixed temperature of 1150°C.
📌 What are the key quality standards referenced?
The standard references ASTM practices for sampling (D4057, D4177), quality control (D6299, D6792), and precision determination (D6300).