Rigaku NEX QC II achieves 3 ppm sulphur detection in air in just 100 seconds

Sulphur measurement is essential for petroleum quality control, from crude oil to various petroleum products. Rigaku's new NEX QC II benchtop elemental analyser demonstrates a sulphur detection limit of just 3 ppm in air with a 100-second measurement time, without helium purge.

A newly released Rigaku application note demonstrates sulphur analysis in petroleum oil according to ASTM D4294, covering petroleum products ranging from crude and residual oils to diesel, jet fuel, and lubricating base oils. The study demonstrates measurement performance across a broad concentration range, supporting ASTM D4294 sulphur analysis from 17 ppm to 5% sulphur.

High Analytical Performance Without Specialised Excitation

The NEX QC II, an energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) analyser, achieves its low-level sulphur detection performance using direct excitation with automated tube filters. Its high-performance silicon drift detector (SDD) with a graphene window, optimised tube-to-sample geometry, and updated processing electronics improve signal quality and analytical performance without requiring specialised excitation configurations.

This combination provides a practical approach to low-level sulphur measurement while maintaining the simplicity and cost advantages of conventional benchtop EDXRF technology.

More Than Sulphur Analysis

Beyond sulphur, the NEX QC II Series offers true multi-element analysis for a broader range of petroleum testing requirements.

Additional application studies using the higher-resolution NEX QC II+ demonstrate measurement of nickel and vanadium in crude and residual oils according to ASTM D8252, along with iron and sulphur. The NEX QC II+ also supports additive element analysis in fresh lubricating oils according to ASTM D7751, including magnesium, phosphorus, sulphur, chlorine, calcium, zinc, and molybdenum.

Both models use direct excitation, with the NEX QC II+ offering enhanced detector resolution and sensitivity for more demanding applications. 

Built for Industrial Use and Long-Term Reliability

Analytical performance is only one consideration when purchasing equipment for petroleum quality control. Ease of operation, maintenance, and reliable support also contribute to long-term value.

Weighing just 34 pounds, the compact NEX QC II Series is designed for laboratory and plant-floor environments. Its intuitive touchscreen interface, embedded computer, and built-in printer allow operators to perform routine analysis without an external PC. Network connectivity supports digital reporting and data management.

A user-replaceable protective film helps safeguard the detector from sample leaks or spills, while straightforward installation and minimal maintenance requirements help reduce downtime.

Backed by a two-year manufacturer's warranty and Rigaku's technical and service support, the NEX QC II Series combines analytical versatility with practical day-to-day operation.  

Interested in the complete performance data?

Contact Applied Rigaku Technologies to request the full ASTM D4294 application note, including detailed detection limits and repeatability data, or discuss your specific testing requirements.