Hydrogen Sulfide Information
Hydrogen Sulfide
Other Names |
Hydrosulfuric Acid; Sulfane; Dihydrogen Monosulfide |
Chemical Formula |
H2S |
CAS Number |
7783 – 06 – 4 |
Industry Uses |
Chemical Laboratories; Metallurgy |
Health Risks |
Irritation of eyes and mucous membranes; Convulsions; Headaches, Dizziness |
Vapor Pressure |
17.6 atm |
Water Solubility |
Insoluble |
Flammability |
Flammable |
Odor |
Rotten Eggs |
Hydrogen Sulfide MSDS
What is Hydrogen Sulfide?
Hydrogen Sulfide is colorless, has an odor of rotten eggs, and is highly toxic. Although the odor is very pungent at first, it quickly deadens the sense of smell, so victims may be unaware of its presence until it's too late. Hydrogen Sulfide is flammable, naturally occurring in crude petroleum, natural gas, volcanic gas, and hot springs. It is sometimes called “sewer gas”. Biogas generators may release up to 1% hydrogen sulfide in gas streams. Any process that breaks down organic material without oxygen has the potential to create high levels of hydrogen sulfide. If heated under pressure it will explode. It is produced in the human body by bacteria in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. Hydrogen Sulfide is very toxic to aquatic life and leaves long-lasting damage.
Hydrogen Sulfide Exposure and Health Risks
Hydrogen Sulfide is toxic and flammable. It is an irritant, causing inflammation and irritation to eyes and respiratory system. Eye pain, conjunctivitis, photophobia, corneal vesiculation and lacrimation (discharge of tears) are effects of Hydrogen Sulfide on the eyes. Dermal burns can result from direct contact. Inhalation can cause dizziness, headaches, insomnia, and fatigue. Gastrointestinal disturbances may occur as well. Hydrogen sulfide causes serious damage to organs and central nervous system, and it can be fatal if inhaled.
Regulations
The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
0.33 ppm |
AEGL-1 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
17 ppm |
AEGL-2 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
31 ppm |
AEGL-3 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
20 ppm |
C (10 min) |
OSHA |
10 ppm |
C (10 min) |
NIOSH |
Sources: NIOSH, OSHA, EPA
Measuring Hydrogen Sulfide
Hydrogen Sulfide concentration in the air can be measured in units of parts per million (ppm). Many of our products have digital communication capabilities for easy monitoring and control. We carry portable and fixed hydrogen sulfide monitors and kits. All of our hydrogen sulfide products can be viewed HERE.
D16 |
The D16 is a versatile tool designed for gas leak detection, personal safety, spot checking, confined entry, and data logging, and more. It can be used as a portable monitor or as a stationary one that can be set to log data over long periods of time. This customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and is sold with very accessory you may need for fast and accurate portable gas detection. | |
D12 |
The D12 is designed for operation in hazardous areas. Its explosion-proof cast aluminum housing is rated for Class 1, Division 1, Group B, C, D locations and is UL, FM, and CSA certified. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensors to be used on a wide range of toxic and combustible gases. | |
F12 |
The Series F12 Gas Transmitter is an Intrinsically Safe monitor designed for the detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | |
F12D |
The Series F12D Gas Transmitter is designed for detection of toxic gases in hazardous areas. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | |
B12 |
The B12 transmitter is a two-wire, 4-29 mA transmitter that is loop-powered to signal linearly proportional to gas concentration. Their electrochemical sensors are designed for use in ambient air or in ventilation ducts. This highly customizable application can be fitted with a variety of sensors and accessories. | 0-50ppm |
S200 |
The Series 200 portable gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) to measure gases found in indoor or industrial environments. It is designed for spot checking, personal exposure monitoring, and leak identification. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | |
S300 |
The Series 300 portable gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) to measure gases found in indoor or industrial environments. It shares the same features as the S200 with the additions of audible alarms and relay and voltage outputs which allow you to interface with control systems, data loggers, and other equipment. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | |
S500 |
The Series 500 portable gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) to measure gases found in indoor or industrial environments. It shares the same features as the S200 and S300 with the additions of internal data logging as well as PC connections cables. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | |
S900 |
The Series 900 fixed gas monitor uses Gas Sensitive Electrochemical technology (GSE) designed to operate as a relay controller, gas transmitter, or networked device. It can also monitor temperature and humidity if needed. This monitor can be fitted with a variety of sensor heads to be used on a wide range of toxic gases. | |
BW Solo | The Honeywell BW Solo is a portable gas detector with a small, durable design and fast response time. These monitors can be paired with a smartphone using BLE allowing for remote access to multiple devices. This detector can be fitted with a variety of sensors, all of which come with a five-year life expectancy. |
Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application