From crude to finished fuels, EDXRF simplifies petroleum analysis

From crude and residual oils to fuels and lubricants, the petroleum industry depends on reliable elemental analysis to support quality control, process decisions, and compliance with test methods and regulations. But laboratories and other facilities also need analytical tools that keep routine testing practical and efficient.

Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) provides a fast, non-destructive, and cost-effective approach to elemental analysis with minimal sample preparation. Rigaku EDXRF analysers offer multi-element, multi-application capabilities, allowing a single system to support multiple testing needs and helping reduce reliance on dedicated single-purpose analysers. Depending on the analyser and application, Rigaku systems support a range of ASTM and international test methods, including ASTM D4294, ASTM D7220, ASTM D7751, ASTM D8252-19, ASTM D4929, and ISO 13032.

Routine Petroleum QC

The new Rigaku NEX QC II Series provides a compact, self-contained platform for routine quality control in the laboratory or on the plant floor. NEX QC II and NEX QC II+ models feature new detector technology, optimised X-ray optics, updated electronics, and redesigned touchscreen software. Applications include sulphur in fuels, metals in crude and residual oils, and lubricant additive elements. The touchscreen-operated analysers require no external PC, helping simplify routine operation and operator training.

More Demanding Analytical Requirements

For facilities requiring greater analytical flexibility, the NEX DE Series supports high-throughput multi-element analysis, including sulphur, chlorine, nickel, vanadium, and other critical elements. Powerful Fundamental Parameters software and Matching Library capabilities can help reduce calibration standard requirements, while the NEX DE VS model provides small-spot analysis for in-plant forensics capabilities.

For trace-element analysis and complex sample matrices, the NEX CG II Series uses indirect excitation with secondary targets to provide high sensitivity. These are all-in-one systems, ideal for commercial labs and R&D. Applications include ultra-low sulphur in fuels, chlorine, manganese, lead, and other elements important to petroleum testing and research. 

Move Analysis Closer to the Process

Do you want to reduce sampling requirements for the lab? Rigaku online analysers provide continuous measurement for process monitoring and control.

The NEX XT measures total sulphur from 0.04 to 6 wt% of crude, bunker fuel, fuel oils, and other highly viscous hydrocarbons, supporting real-time blending operations for marine bunker fuel to pipelines, terminals, and refineries. The NEX OL provides multi-element monitoring of liquid process streams, including catalyst elements used in PTA and catalyst recovery processes.

Together, Rigaku’s benchtop EDXRF and online systems provide options for elemental analysis ranging from routine laboratory QC to advanced analysis and continuous process measurement. To discuss your petroleum testing application or learn more about Rigaku EDXRF solutions, contact the team today. 

See the New NEX QC II Series at Gulf Coast Conference

Attending the Gulf Coast Conference 2026? Visit Applied Rigaku Technologies at Booth 102 to see the new NEX QC II Series in person. The analysers will also be featured in the GCC New Product Showcase.