Hydrogen sulfide - H2S
Here is gathered essential information on hydrogen sulfide or sulfurated hydrogen (H2S): characteristics, effects on health, detection devices & systems - hydrogen sulfide detector - and proper respiratory protective equipment against organic vapors - H2S respirator: gas mask or PAPR with B gas filter.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) properties
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) – also known as sulfurated hydrogen – is naturally present on Earth. This gas is exhausted during organic and bacterial material decomposition – which explains its massive presence in sewers and wastewater treatment plants. It is widely used in the chemical industry to produce inorganic sulfurs and sulfuric acid. H2S can also be found in the steel industry to remove dirt from metals.
| CAS | VME (8 heures) | VLE (15 minutes) | LIE | IP | Densité / Air | Filtre / ARI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200-846-2 | 5 ppm | 10 ppm | 4 % | 10.49 eV | 1.19 | B |
Hydrogen sulfide effects on health
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless gas with a strong rotten egg smell. This gas is very toxic by inhalation (R26) and causes cellular hypoxia. Being exposed to low concentrations affects the eyes (swelling) and the breathing system (lungs burns). It is also extremely flammable (R12), especially in contact with oxidizers featuring explosive limits between 4 and 46% volume.
Hydrogen sulfide exposure & poisoning symptoms (H2S)