Sulfur Dioxide Information
Sulfur Dioxide
Other Names |
Sulfurous anhydride; sulfurous oxide; sulphur dioxide |
Chemical Formula |
SO2 |
CAS Number |
7446 – 09 – 5 |
Industry Uses |
Volcanic Activity; Fossil Fuels; Pharmaceuticals |
Health Risks |
Irritation; Respiratory Symptoms; Dermal Burns/Frostbite |
Vapor Pressure |
3.2 atm |
Water Solubility |
Slightly Soluble; Reacts with Water and Steam |
Flammability |
Non-Flammable |
Odor |
Pungent, Irritating |
Sulfur Dioxide MSDS
What is Sulfur Dioxide?
Sulfur Dioxide is a highly toxic, colorless gas that is non-flammable. It exists in all living species from bacteria to humans. Sulfur Dioxide is released naturally by volcanic activity and is produced as a by-product of the burning of fossil fuels contaminated with sulfur compounds. It is an environmental air pollutant. It is also used as a pharmaceutical aid and antioxidant, as well as a sanitizing agent for food containers and fermentation equipment. Sulfur Dioxide is heavier than air so fumes tend to travel along the ground. When exposed to heat or fire, containers of sulfur dioxide can explode and rocket.
Sulfur Dioxide Exposure and Health Risks
Sulfur Dioxide is highly toxic when inhaled. Even very short exposures to small quantities can cause death. Sulfur Dioxide is a respiratory irritant, causing inflammation to nose, throat, and lungs, choking, coughing, discharge of nasal mucous, and bronchoconstriction if inhaled. Pulmonary edema, cyanosis, pneumonia, respiratory paralysis, and death can occur if exposure is severe. If directly contacted it can cause skin burns and/or frostbite.
Regulations
The table below summarizes the most-recent exposure limits.
Limit/Level |
Type |
Organization |
0.2 |
AEGL-1 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
0.75 ppm |
AEGL-2 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
9.6 ppm |
AEGL-3 (8 hrs) |
EPA |
5 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
OSHA |
2 ppm |
TWA (8 hrs) |
NIOSH |
5 ppm |
Short-Term |
NIOSH |
Measuring Sulfur Dioxide
Sulfur Dioxide 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 Sulfur Dioxide monitors and kits. All of our Sulfur Dioxide 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 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. | 0-20ppm |
D12 |
The D12 is designed for operation in hazardous areas. It's 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. | 0-20ppm |
F12 |
The Series F12 Gas Transmitter is an Intrinsically Safe monitor designed for the detection of toxic gases in hazardous area. It is also well suited for general purpose applications. This highly customizable unit can be fitted with a variety of sensors and and accessories and is compatible with most fixed mount toxic gas applications. | 0-20ppm |
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. | 0-20ppm |
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. | 0-20ppm |
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. |
Contact us for help choosing the right monitor for your application