Measurements

Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a naturally occurring colorless, toxic gas, notable for its very distinct odor (like rotten eggs) even at very low concentrations.

How is Hydrogen Sulfide produced?

Hydrogen sulfide forms during the breakdown of organic matter containing sulfur, in the absence of oxygen. Natural sources include hot sulfur springs, lakes, swamps, and volcanic gas. Rotorua in New Zealand is famous for its natural geysers and hot springs; infamous for its ‘rotten egg’ smell. Some of the primary industrial sources of hydrogen sulfide emissions include:

Coke production
Waste-water treatment plants
Landfill sites
Farms
Wood pulp production
Oil refineries

What are the health risks and environmental effects of Hydrogen Sulfide?

Due to its toxicity, concentrations of H₂S should be closely monitored. An increase in atmospheric concentration can lead to eye irritation, nausea, and shortness of breath. If concentrations continue to rise, hydrogen sulfide can damage the nervous system and even be fatal.

Why use an Aeroqual Hydrogen Sulfide sensor?

Hydrogen sulfide can be a nuisance to communities that border industrial sites, even if concentrations are too low to be harmful.

Humans can smell hydrogen sulfide gas at concentrations as low as 10ppb. The odor is very offensive and is comparable to rotten eggs. Aeroqual offers fixed or portable H₂S detectors for monitoring at industrial or naturally-occurring sites. Choose the sensor range that best meets your project's requirements.