Sulfur Trace Analyzer
Precision Analysis of Sulfur Compounds in Gaseous and Liquid Hydrocarbon Streams
(Compliant with ASTM D5504 / D5623)
Overview
Sulfur compounds, even at trace levels, can have a critical impact on catalyst life, product quality, and environmental compliance in petrochemical and refinery operations. Accurate determination of total and speciated sulfur content is essential for optimizing process control and meeting stringent fuel and emission regulations.
The JAS Sulfur Trace Analyzer is a specialized Gas Chromatography (GC) system designed for ultra-sensitive detection and quantification of sulfur-containing compounds according to ASTM D5504 (for gaseous hydrocarbons) and ASTM D5623 (for liquid hydrocarbon matrices).
Built on the Agilent 8890 GC platform, the analyzer delivers reliable, high-resolution separation and low detection limits, ensuring accurate sulfur speciation across complex matrices — from LPGs and natural gas to naphtha, gasoline, and petrochemical feeds.
Method Compliance
- ASTM D5504 – Determination of Sulfur Compounds in Natural Gas and Gaseous Hydrocarbons by GC with Sulfur Chemiluminescence Detection (SCD)
- ASTM D5623 – Determination of Individual Sulfur Compounds in Light Petroleum Liquids by GC with SCD
Both methods are internationally recognized for trace sulfur determination with high selectivity, sensitivity, and linear response across multiple sulfur species such as H₂S, COS, SO₂, thiols, sulfides, and disulfides.
System Configuration
The JAS Sulfur Trace Analyzer can be configured to meet specific analytical requirements based on matrix type and concentration range:
- Detector: Sulfur Chemiluminescence Detector (SCD) or Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD)
- Injection System: Split/Splitless or Gas Sampling Valve (GSV)
- Columns: Application-specific capillary or packed columns for optimized sulfur separation
- Valve System: JAS ValveBox for multi-stream or multi-valve operation
- Carrier Gas: Helium or Nitrogen compatible
- Data System: JAS Report Generator integrated with Agilent OpenLab CDS
Each system is factory-calibrated, validated, and preloaded with method-specific parameters and test conditions to ensure full compliance with ASTM D5504 and D5623.
Performance Highlights
- Ultra-trace detection limits down to low ppb levels
- High linearity and reproducibility for all sulfur species
- Precise sulfur speciation in both gaseous and liquid hydrocarbons
- Short analysis cycle times for process and QA/QC environments
- Low maintenance and high detector stability
- Compliant with environmental and fuel-quality regulations
Software and Reporting
The JAS Sulfur Analyzer integrates seamlessly with JAS Report Generator and OpenLab CDS, offering:
- Automatic peak identification and quantification of sulfur species
- Comprehensive sulfur speciation and total sulfur reporting
- Built-in calibration validation and QA/QC tracking
- Graphical chromatogram overlay and comparison
- Direct export to Excel, CSV, or LIMS for data management
Options and Accessories
To enhance flexibility and performance, JAS offers several configuration options for the Sulfur Trace Analyzer:
- Dual-channel system for parallel D5504/D5623 capability
- Heated sampling system for high-boiling or condensable streams
- Four-port vent system for high-methane or hydrocarbon-rich matrices
- Multi-stream valve module for sequential sample analysis
- Sulfur reference gas calibration unit
- Additional PFPD or FPD detector for confirmatory analysis
- GICU (Gas Injection Control Unit) for stable and reproducible gas sample introduction
Why Choose the JAS Sulfur Trace Analyzer
- Fully compliant with ASTM D5504 and D5623 standards
- Ultra-sensitive sulfur detection using SCD or PFPD
- Proven performance in natural gas, LPG, naphtha, and refinery gas applications
- Robust and modular design for laboratory or process environments
- Supported by JAS global expertise in petrochemical and refinery analysis
Applications
- Trace sulfur analysis in natural gas and gaseous hydrocarbons
- Sulfur speciation in liquid fuels (naphtha, gasoline, diesel)
- Feedstock quality control in refineries and petrochemical plants
- Catalyst protection and process optimization
- Regulatory compliance and emission control verification
JAS Sulfur Trace Analyzer —
Setting new standards in precision sulfur analysis for gas and liquid hydrocarbons.
