USEPA Method 16A

Testing Overview
Testing Services
Personnel
Equipment
Industries Served
Test Methods
Pollutants
Sources
Training
Oversight
Technical Procedures
Technical Questions
Safety
Quality

Total Reduced Sulfur Emissions from Stationary Sources (Impinger Technique) – USEPA Method 16A

USEPA Method 16A is used for the determination of TRS emissions from recovery boilers, lime kilns, and smelt dissolving tanks at kraft pulp mills, reduced sulfur compounds (H₂S, carbonyl sulfide, and carbon disulfide) from sulfur recovery units at onshore natural gas processing facilities, and from other sources when specified in an applicable subpart of the regulations.

An integrated gas sample is extracted from the stack. SO₂ is removed selectively from the sample using a citrate buffer solution. TRS compounds are then thermally oxidized to SO₂, collected in hydrogen peroxide as sulfate, and analyzed by the USEPA Method 6 barium-thorin titration procedure. The flue gas must contain at least 1 percent oxygen for complete oxidation of all TRS to SO₂.

Reduced sulfur compounds other than those regulated by the emission standards, if present, are measured by this method. Therefore, carbonyl sulfide, which is partially oxidized to SO₂ and may be present in a lime kiln exit stack, is a positive interferant.

Particulate matter from the lime kiln stack gas (primarily calcium carbonate) causes a negative bias if it is allowed to enter the citrate scrubber. The particulate matter will cause the pH to rise and H₂S to be absorbed prior to oxidation. Furthermore, if the calcium carbonate enters the hydrogen peroxide impingers, the calcium precipitates sulfate ion. Proper use of the particulate filter described in the method eliminates this interference.

To Speak To A Sales Representative Call 800-627-0033

Last Update: October 25, 2006