Rigaku Supermini200 Cl Single-Wavelength XRF Ultra-Low Chlorine Analyzer (ASTM D7536 Compliant)

Overview

The Rigaku Supermini200 Cl is a benchtop single-wavelength wavelength-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (WDXRF) analyzer engineered for ultra-trace chlorine determination in petroleum and petrochemical matrices, fully compliant with ASTM D7536. Unlike energy-dispersive XRF (EDXRF) systems, this instrument employs high-resolution Bragg diffraction using selectable analyzing crystals to isolate characteristic Cl Kα radiation (2.622 keV) with minimal spectral interference—critical for accurate quantification in high-sulfur, low-chlorine samples such as hydrotreated diesel or catalytic reformate. Its Pd-target X-ray tube operates at 50 kV and 4 mA (200 W total power), delivering significantly higher photon flux than conventional 75 W single-element analyzers, thereby enhancing signal-to-noise ratio and enabling reliable detection down to 0.1 ppm Cl in liquid and solid samples without matrix-matched calibration standards.

Key Features

• Single-wavelength WDXRF architecture optimized for Cl, S, Si, and Pb quantification per major industry standards (ASTM D7536, SH/T 0842, SH/T 0977, SH/T 0993, ASTM D5059)
• Pd-anode X-ray source with stable 200 W output—enabling lower detection limits and improved measurement reproducibility (RSD < 1.5% at 1 ppm Cl)
• Automated multi-crystal spectrometer with crystal selection driven by analytical sequence—ensuring optimal resolution for each element’s emission line
• Benchtop footprint (600 × 550 × 400 mm) with integrated 12-position autosampler for unattended operation across heterogeneous sample sets
• Robust sample handling: accommodates liquids (neat or in sealed vials), slurries, powders (e.g., FCC catalysts), and polymer films (e.g., polypropylene) without digestion or dilution
• Real-time spectral diagnostics including automatic peak position verification, background modeling, and dead-time correction

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Supermini200 Cl is validated for direct analysis of undiluted hydrocarbon streams—including gasoline, diesel, naphtha, aviation turbine fuel (Jet A-1), crude oil, vacuum residuum—and aqueous phases such as process water and refinery wastewater. Solid-phase compatibility extends to spent catalysts, adsorbents, and polyolefin pellets. All measurements adhere to the instrumental requirements specified in ASTM D7536 for chlorine in middle distillates, with documented traceability to NIST SRM 2722 (chlorinated hydrocarbon standard). The system supports GLP-compliant data integrity through audit-trail-enabled software, electronic signatures, and secure user access levels—fully aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 expectations for regulated laboratories.

Software & Data Management

The proprietary Windows-based analysis suite provides full control over acquisition parameters, calibration management, and reporting workflows. It supports three analytical modes: fundamental parameter (FP)-based standardless quantification for rapid screening; empirical calibration using certified reference materials (CRMs); and thin-film correction for layered or heterogeneous samples. Built-in spectral library matching enables automated peak identification during qualitative surveys. All raw spectra, processed results, instrument logs, and user actions are timestamped and stored in encrypted SQLite databases with configurable backup intervals. Export formats include CSV, PDF analytical reports, and XML for LIMS integration.

Applications

• Monitoring chloride ingress in refinery feedstocks to prevent corrosion in hydrotreating and FCC units
• Verifying compliance with ultra-low-chlorine specifications (<1 ppm) for automotive diesel (EN 590, ASTM D975) and jet fuel (ASTM D1655)
• Quantifying catalyst poison accumulation (Cl, Si, Pb) in fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) and hydroprocessing catalysts
• Supporting sulfur management programs via concurrent S and Cl measurement under SH/T 0842 and SH/T 0977
• Environmental compliance testing of refinery wastewater per EPA Method 6010D (ICP-OES cross-validation supported)

FAQ

Does the Supermini200 Cl require helium purge or vacuum for chlorine analysis?

No—its optimized optical path and high-efficiency detector enable air-path Cl Kα detection without gas purging or vacuum pumping.
Can it analyze solid catalysts without pelletization?

Yes—the instrument accepts loose powders and granular solids directly in standard sample cups; no pressing or binder addition is required.
Is method validation support available for ASTM D7536 implementation?

Rigaku provides application notes, CRM test protocols, and IQ/OQ documentation templates aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 laboratory accreditation requirements.
How does the 200 W X-ray source improve precision compared to legacy 75 W systems?

Higher tube power increases characteristic X-ray yield while maintaining thermal stability, reducing counting statistics uncertainty and improving RSD by up to 40% at sub-ppm levels.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for routine operation?

Annual crystal alignment verification and biannual X-ray tube performance validation are advised; no consumables other than standard X-ray tube replacement every ~20,000 hours.