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1.1 This test method covers the determination of the boiling range distribution of petroleum products. The test method is applicable to petroleum products and fractions having a final boiling point of 538 °C (1000 °F) or lower at atmospheric pressure as measured by this test method. This test method is limited to samples having a boiling range greater than 55 °C (100 °F), and having a vapor pressure sufficiently low to permit sampling at ambient temperature.

1.2 This test method requires the use of both FID and SCD for detection. The hydrocarbon simulated distillation data obtained from the FID signal should be performed according to Test Method D2887 Procedure B.

1.3 The test method is not applicable for analysis of petroleum distillates containing low molecular weight components (for example, naphthas, reformates, gasolines, crude oils). Materials containing heterogeneous components (for example, alcohols, ethers, acids, or esters) or residue are not to be analyzed by this test method. See Test Methods D3710, D7096, D5307, D7169, or D7500.

1.4 This test method does not purport to identify all sulfur species in a sample. The detector response to sulfur is equimolar for all sulfur compounds within the scope (1.1) of this test method. Thus, unidentified sulfur compounds are determined with equal precision to that of identified substances. Total sulfur content is determined from the total area of the sulfur detector.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

5.1 The boiling range distribution of light and medium petroleum distillate fractions provides an insight into the composition of feed stocks and products related to petroleum refining processes. This gas chromatographic determination of boiling range can be used to replace conventional distillation methods for control of refining operations. This test method can be used for product specification testing with the mutual agreement of interested parties.

5.2 This test method extends the scope of Test Method D2887 (538 °C) boiling range determination by gas chromatography to include sulfur boiling range distribution in the petroleum distillate fractions. Knowledge of the amount of sulfur and its distribution in hydrocarbons is economically important in determining product value and in determining how best to process or refine intermediate products. Sulfur compounds are known to affect numerous properties of petroleum and petrochemical products. The corrosion of metals and poisoning of catalysts is of particular concern. In addition, the content of sulfur in various refined products may be subject to governmental regulations. Test Methods, such as, D2622, D3120, D5504 and D5623, are available to determine total sulfur content or content of individual sulfur compounds in petroleum and petroleum products. Test Methods, such as, D86, D1160, D2887, D3710, and D2892, are also available to determine the hydrocarbon boiling ranges of such samples. The gas chromatographic determination of the sulfur boiling range assists in process development, in treatment and control of refining operations and is useful for assessing product quality. This determination produces detailed information about the sulfur distribution in a sample that cannot be obtained by either total sulfur analysis or analysis of sulfur in discreet distillation cuts.