Sulfur Compound Testing

Many sulfur compounds are corrosive. They damage infrastructure, inhibit and destroy catalysts employed in downstream processing and petroleum refining, and impart undesirable odors to products. We can help you prevent damage and comply with regulations by testing for and analyzing trace sulfur compounds in natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGL), light petroleum gases (LPG), light petroleum liquids and condensates. Testing is useful for monitoring and controlling sulfur compounds in finished products, and provides useful information beyond total sulfur content measurement alone.

Why choose sulfur compound testing from SGS? 

We provide a broad range of sulfur compound testing and analysis services in our oil and gas laboratories. Trace sulfur compounds are detected at ppb and ppm levels, with detailed sulfur molecular speciation analysis within various petroleum liquids and gases when required. Testing and reporting are rapid, upon receipt of samples.

Gas chromatography with sulfur chemiluminescence detection is a rapid means of identifying and quantifying sulfur compounds in petroleum feeds and products. We provide this analysis for:  

• Olefin monomers, such as ethylene and propylene
• Solvents, including paraffins, benzene, toluene and xylenes
• Fuels such as natural gas, LPG, gasoline, kerosene, jet and diesel

Sulfur Compound Analysis Methods 

• Sulfur compounds in natural gas and gaseous fuels by gas chromatography and chemiluminescence (ASTM D5504). Detection limit of 0.1 ppm 
• Sulfur compounds in light petroleum liquids by gas chromatography and sulfur selective detection, detection limit of 100 ppb (ASTM D 5623). Modified test methods may achieve trace detection limits of 20 ppb. 
• Sulfur compound analysis in LPG (liquid petroleum gas), run by ASTM D-5623. 

Sulfur species compounds detected include:

Detection of Sulfur Compounds Present After the Industrial Process

Certain odorous sulfur compounds, such as ethyl mercaptan, tetrahydrothiophene, and occasionally thiophene are intentionally added to propane for use as warning agents in the detection of LPG leaks. We can detect sulfur compounds in these liquids, in concentrations as low as 20 ppb, to assure the quality of the added odorant.

A Leading Provider of Laboratory Services for The Oil and Gas Industries

As the world’s leading testing, inspection verification and certification company, SGS offers decades of experience in scientific testing, along with an international network of best-in-class laboratories. We provide organizations around the globe with testing and analytical services to meet their specific needs.

Contact us today to learn more about sulfur compound testing.