ASTM D4927 – Standard Test Methods for Elemental Analysis of Lubricant and Additive Components—Barium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Sulfur, and Zinc by Wavelength-Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy

1.1 These test methods cover the determination of barium, calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, and zinc in unused lubricating oils at element concentration ranges shown in Table 1. The range can be extended to higher concentrations by dilution of sample specimens. Additives can also be determined after dilution. Two different methods are presented in these test methods.

1.2 Test Method A (Internal Standard Procedure)—Internal standards are used to compensate for interelement effects of X-ray excitation and fluorescence (see Sections 8 through 13).

1.3 Test Method B (Mathematical Correction Procedure)—The measured X-ray fluorescence intensity for a given element is mathematically corrected for potential interference from other elements present in the sample (see Sections 14 through 19).

1.4 The preferred concentration units are mass % barium, calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, or zinc.

1.5 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.

1.6 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.