ASTM D4239

Determination of the Total Sulfur in Organic Matrices

Applicability: This procedure applies to all samples received and analyzed at Conti Testing Laboratories, Inc. (CTL), Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for total sulfur, using high temperature tube furnace combustion.

Purpose: The purpose of this procedure is to provide a method for the measurement of sulfur in coal, coke, various fuel liquids and solids by high temperature tube furnace combustion at temperatures above 1350oC. During combustion, the sulfur compounds are oxidized to gaseous sulfur dioxide (SO2) and measured on an IR detector. Results of the analysis are used for evaluation of coal and coke quality, evaluation of coal preparation and cleaning, and evaluation of potential sulfur emissions from coal and coke combustion or conversion processes. Simultaneous determination of sulfur, carbon, and hydrogen can be obtained, but specific aspects of the carbon/hydrogen determinations are covered in ASTM D5373