A comparison of four selective detectors for analysis of single-digit ppb level sulfur is described
The document describes a comparison of four selective detectors—Atomic Emission Detector (AED), Flame Photometric Detector (FPD), Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD), and Sulfur Chemiluminescent Detector (SCD)—for the analysis of low-level sulfur in gaseous streams. The study focuses on single-digit ppb level detection using a dynamic blending system to prepare mixtures of eight sulfur compounds, including H2S, COS, CS2, and selected mercaptans, in helium, ethylene, propylene, and carbon dioxide matrices.
The authors discuss the criteria for selecting the best detector based on sensitivity, selectivity, stability, and ease of use. The note details experimental setups using an Agilent 6890 gas chromatograph with a volatiles interface and presents representative detector settings. A summary table compares the characteristics of the four detectors regarding minimum detection limits (MDL), selectivity, dynamic range, quenching behavior, column compatibility, interference from other elements, and approximate relative cost.
The study included H2S, COS, CS2, and selected mercaptans (methyl, ethyl, dimethyl sulfide, carbon disulfide, 1-butyl mercaptan, tetrahydrothiophene).
Both the Flame Photometric Detector (FPD) and Pulsed Flame Photometric Detector (PFPD) exhibit quenching.