ASTM D5016

Total Sulfur in Coal and Coke Combustion Residues Using High-Temperature Tube Furnace Combustion

Applicability: Applies to coal combustion residues including fly ash, bottom ash, and boiler slag, as well as coke combustion residues. Used to quantify residual sulfur content for environmental compliance, waste characterization, and quality control in power generation and industrial combustion operations. The method addresses the need for accurate sulfur measurement in materials where incomplete combustion or sulfate retention results in measurable sulfur levels in the solid residue.

Purpose: Determines total sulfur in coal and coke combustion residues by combusting a weighed sample in a high-temperature tube furnace under a stream of oxygen, converting all sulfur-bearing compounds to sulfur dioxide, and quantifying SO₂ by infrared detection or iodometric titration. Results are used to assess the degree of sulfur capture in pollution control systems, characterize ash for regulatory classification and disposal, and evaluate the suitability of combustion residues for beneficial reuse applications such as concrete admixtures or construction fill.