Automated determination of sulphur in organic compounds

Abstract

The paper reviews methods of sulphur determination over the last 120 years. Classical methods are presented in a historical view, and the present state of automatic procedures of sulphur estimation is discussed. 104 key references concerning sulphur analysis are cited. On the basis of the present level of the development of elemental analysis, a prognosis of directions of the development of sulphur microanalysis is attempted.

Sulfur isotopic discrimination factors differ among avian tissues and diets: Insights from a case study in Gentoo Penguins

“…However, δ 34 S measurements on biological material such as avian tissues are analytically complex and expensive relative to other light elements. This is due to the generally low elemental concentration of sulfur in organic matter, the challenge of efficiently converting organic matter to SO 2 prior to isotopic analysis, and the tendency of sulfur to “stick” to stainless steel surfaces within instrumentation, and hazards associated with using sulfur dioxide (SO 2 ) as a reference gas (Kaczmarek and Gondko 1986, Krouse 1989, Griffiths 1991).…”

Simultaneous δ15N, δ13C and δ34S measurements of low‐biomass samples using a technically advanced high sensitivity elemental analyzer connected to an isotope ratio mass spectrometer

“…In contrast the determination of δ 34 S is rare and it is used mainly as a single‐element application. Difficulties in carrying out δ 34 S measurements are primarily caused by incomplete conversion of the different valence states of the element into sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) and the tendency of sulphur to undergo adsorption to surfaces 17. These problems can cause isotopic fractionation, peak‐tailing and carry‐over during the analysis.…”