Trace Element Determination in Diesel Particulates by Total-Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis

Abstract.

 Particulate matter of Diesel emissions collected from diluted exhaust during standard test runs with two Diesel fuels of different sulfur content was analysed by total-reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF). The trace elements determined were S, Ca, Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb. Additionally, some filter materials were tested with respect to their applicability for sample collection. Quartz fibre filters were found to be most suitable, both from a technical and a chemical point of view. A clear reduction of total particulate emissions during the whole test was observed when the fuel with very low sulfur content was used. In addition, it was found that the wear metal content of particulate matter emitted by a cold engine was higher than that observed during normal engine working temperature.