Compact WDXRF Analyser for Ultra-Low Sulphur (ULS) Determination in Fuels

Rigaku Corporation (USA) have announced the introduction of the Rigaku Micro-Z ULS sulphur analyser. Designed for ultra-low level sulphur analysis of diesel and petrol (gasoline) fuels, this benchtop wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) instrument features a novel design that measures both the sulphur peak and the background intensity. Rigaku Micro-Z ULS meets ASTM 2622-10 and ISO 20884 specifications.

The Rigaku Micro-Z ULS is the ideal solution for sulphur analysis of petroleum based fuels, with a lower limit of detection (LLD) of 0.3 parts-per-million (ppm). Employing robust fixed optics, featuring a specially designed doubly curved RX-9 analysing crystal, the analyser can be powered by any standard “wall” AC  outlet.

On March 23, 2013, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed long-anticipated Tier 3 standards for gasoline sulphur content for light-duty and medium-duty passenger vehicles. With a proposed start in 2017, the Tier 3 program is also harmonised with the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Low Emission Vehicle (LEV III) program, enabling automakers to sell the same vehicles in all 50 states. EPA is proposing that federal gasoline contain no more than 10 ppm of sulphur on an annual average basis by January 1, 2017, down from the current 30 ppm standard. In addition, EPA is proposing to either maintain the current 80 ppm refinery gate and 95 ppm downstream caps, or lower them to 50 and 65 ppm respectively. The proposed Tier 3 gasoline sulfur standards are similar to levels currently in place in California, Europe, Japan, South Korea, and several other countries. A 15 ppm sulphur specification, known as Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel (ULSD), was phased in for highway diesel fuel beginning in 2006.