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HYDROGEN SULFIDE
CASRN: 7783-06-4
See Occupational Exposure Standards
Human Health Effects:
Evidence for Carcinogenicity:
There are no published reports of carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or
teratogenesis attributable to hydrogen sulfide exposure.
Human Toxicity Excerpts:
SYMPTOMATOLOGY: A. LOW TO MODERATELY HIGH VAPOR CONCENTRATIONS: 1. IRRITANT
ACTIONS. EYES: PAINFUL CONJUNCTIVITIS, PHOTOPHOBIA, LACRIMATION, & CORNEAL
OPACITY. RESP TRACT: RHINITIS WITH ANOSMIA, TRACHEOBRONCHITIS WITH PAIN AND
COUGH, PULMONARY EDEMA WITH DYSPNEA, SOMETIMES LATE BRONCHOPNEUMONIA. SKIN:
DIRECT CONTACT (AS SOLN) MAY PRODUCE ERYTHEMA & PAIN. B. VERY HIGH VAPOR
CONCENTRATIONS: 1. SUDDEN COLLAPSE & UNCONSCIOUSNESS, WITH OR WITHOUT A
WARNING CRY. 2. DEATH FROM PROMPT RESP PARALYSIS, USUALLY WITH TERMINAL
ASPHYXIAL CONVULSION. 3. AFTER SUBLETHAL EXPOSURES COMA MAY DISAPPEAR PROMPTLY,
BUT FULL RECOVERY IS USUALLY SLOW; THE PATIENT MAY HAVE A RESIDUAL COUGH,
CARDIAC DILATATION, SLOW PULSE, PERIPHERAL ... /NEUROPATHY/, ALBUMINURIA AND
SOME DEGREE OF AMNESIA OR OF PSYCHIC DISTURBANCE. RECOVERY IS EVENTUALLY
COMPLETE IN MOST NONFATAL CASES.
A CASE OF POLYNEURITIS AND ENCEPHALOPATHY FROM 1 DAY EXPOSURE TO A CONCN
INSUFFICIENT TO CAUSE LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS HAS BEEN REPORTED.
ANALYSIS OF RETICULOCYTES FOR DELTA-AMINO-LEVULINIC ACID SYNTHASE (AMLEV
SYNTHASE) AND HEME SYNTHASE ACTIVITY IN WORKERS IN PULP PRODUCTION WITH
LOW-LEVEL HYDROGEN SULFIDE AND METHYLMERCAPTAN EXPOSURE SHOWED DECREASED
ACTIVITIES. ERYTHROCYTE PROTOPORPHYRIN CONCENTRATION WAS BELOW THE CONTROL RANGE
IN 7 CASES. LOW AMLEV SYNTHASE AND HEME SYNTHASE ACTIVITIES WERE FOUND IN 1
PATIENT WITH HYDROGEN SULFIDE INTOXICATION 1 WEEK AFTER THE EVENT. THE
ACTIVITIES HAD RETURNED TO THE CONTROL LEVELS 2 MONTHS LATER, THOUGH ERYTHROCYTE
PROTOPORPHYRIN REMAINED ABNORMALLY LOW. IN VITRO, HYDROGEN SULFIDE INHIBITED
HEME SYNTHASE WITH AN APPARENT KI OF 3.4 MMOL/L. SULFIDE ANION INHIBITED AMLEV
SYNTHASE ACTIVITY 85% AT 10 MMOL/L.
SPONTANEOUS ABORTIONS WERE ANALYZED IN AN INDUSTRIAL COMMUNITY IN FINLAND IN
WOMEN WHO WERE EMPLOYED IN RAYON TEXTILE JOBS AND PAPER PRODUCTS JOBS. AN
INCREASED RATE OF SPONTANEOUS ABORTIONS WAS NOTED IN ALL SOCIOECONOMIC CLASSES
IN AREAS WHERE THE MEAN ANNUAL LEVEL OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE EXCEEDED 4 UG/CU M.
HOWEVER, THE DIFFERENCE (TOTAL RATES 7.6 AND 9.3, RESPECTIVELY) WAS NOT
STATISTICALLY SIGNIFICANT.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE IS ASSOCIATED WITH DEATHS CAUSED BY FERMENTING MANURE.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE CAN PENETRATE SKIN & CAUSE TOXICOSIS IN PEOPLE EXPOSED
TO LARGE CONCN OVER LONG PERIOD ... SPEED OF ONSET OF ACUTE HYDROGEN SULFIDE
POISONING & POTENCY OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE ARE ALMOST SAME AS FOR CYANIDE GAS
...
Low concentrations of 20-150 ppm cause irritation of the eyes; slightly
higher concentrations may cause irritation of the upper respiratory tract, and
if exposure is prolonged, pulmonary edema may result. The irritant action has
been explained on the basis that hydrogen sulfide combines with the alkali
present in moist surface tissues to form sodium sulfide, a caustic.
... OF 174 EXPOSURES TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE IN A HEAVY WATER PLANT ... EYE
IRRITATION WAS RELATIVELY UNCOMMON. MORE COMMON FINDINGS WERE NERVOUSNESS,
COUGH, NAUSEA, HEADACHE & INSOMNIA.
As concentrations approach 100 ppm,...odor becomes imperceptible because of
olfactory fatigue. At these levels, the gas disrupts cellular respiration and
may cause profound respiratory depression as well as cardiac dysrhythmias.
At a concentration of 150 ppm, the olfactory nerve is paralyzed.
Hydrogen sulfide is an extremely hazardous gas which can be immediately life
threatening at high concentrations (300 mg/cu m or 200 ppm).
1400-2,800 mg/cu m inhalation <20 min number of subjects 342,
hospitalization of 320, death of 22, residual nervous system damage in 4.
Concentrations of 20-50 ppm irritates the eyes. Inhalation of 500 ppm for 30
minutes produces headache, dizziness, excitement, staggering, and gastroenteric
disorders followed in some cases by bronchitis or bronchial pneumonia.
Concentrations above 600 ppm can be fatal within 30 minutes through respiratory
paralyses.
Prolonged exposure may cause pulmonary edema at 250 pp.
AT HIGH CONCN HYDROGEN SULFIDE PRODUCES PARALYSIS OF OLFACTORY NERVES
(ANOSMIA) & ODOR DETECTION IS INEFFECTIVE AS A WARNING FOR HYDROGEN SULFIDE.
A group of 9 men and 10 women inhaled medical air or 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide
for 15 min during cycle exercise at 50% of their maximal aerobic power. Routine
pulmonary function tests were administered at rest and immediately after the two
exposure conditions. No significant changes in pulmonary function variables were
/noted/ and none of the subjects experienced any signs or symptoms as a result
of hydrogen sulfide exposure. Oral inhalation of 10 ppm hydrogen sulfide at an
elevated metabolic and ventilation rate does not significantly alter pulmonary
function in healthy men and women.
In the 19th century, deaths from acute exposure to hydrogen sulfide portended
permanent brain injury from non-lethal /exposures/. The neurobehavioral effects
of H2S exposures lasting from moments to years were compared in 16 healthy
subjects, 2 yr to 22 yr afterward. Neurophysiologic and psychologic tests were
used to appraise mood status and frequencies of 35 symptoms. Functions and
frequencies, described as percent predicted adjusted for age, sex, educational
achievement, and other factors, were compared with those in an unexposed
population. ... Frequencies were elevated for 31 of 33 symptoms. Balance was
impaired (246% predicted with eyes closed, 159% predicted with eyes open), and
simple and choice reaction times were prolonged (151% and 130% predicted,
respectively). Visual fields performance was decr to 72% predicted (right) and
55% predicted (left), color discrimination was abnormal, and hearing was
decr.Psychologic domains showed cognitive disability, reduced perceptual motor
speed, impaired verbal recall and remote memory, and abnormal mood status. ...
Respiratory symptoms and lung function in relation to hydrogen sulfide
exposure was assessed in oil and natural gas workers in Alberta, Canada. 175
workers were questioned about gas exposures strong enough to cause respiratory
symptoms and those that caused loss of consciousness (knockdowns); assessments
included spirometry and skin prick testing. Exposures strong enough to cause
symptoms were reported by 34% of the workers. These exposures were not
associated with lower spirometric values or incr prevalence of symptoms.
Exposures strong enough to cause unconsciousness were reported by 8% of the
workers. while these knockdowns were not associated with lower spirometric
values, they were associated with excesses of shortness of breath while
hurrying, wheeze with chest tightness, and attacks of wheeze. Respiratory
symptoms were consistent with bronchial hyperactivity. ...
The acute effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) on the cardiovascular, metabolic
and biochemical responses of exercising men and women were /evaluated/. The
maximal aerobic power (VO2max) of 15 male and 13 female subjects was determined
during the first exercise session. During two subsequent exercise sessions, the
subjects inhaled either medical air or an H2S dose of 10 ppm while performing at
50% of their VO2max. A number of physiological parameters were monitored,
including blood pressure and expiratory gasses. Muscle biopsies, blood analyses,
and tissue analyses were performed. Muscle lactate, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH),
citrate synthase (CS) and cytochrome oxidase quantities were analyzed. H2S
inhalation had no significant effect on partial pressures of oxygen or carbon
dioxide, hemoglobin saturation, or arterial blood pH. H2S inhalation
significantly reduced the VO2 and significantly incr the delta blood in both men
and women. Neither heart rate nor blood pressure was affected by H2S inhalation.
Muscle lactate incr, although not significantly in men and women exposed to H2S.
The LDH and CS activities decr by about 7% each after H2S inhalation. Following
H2S inhalation, cytochrome oxidase activity decr by 16% in men and incr by 11%
in women. ...
Human Toxicity Values:
Man: severe toxic effects 200 ppm = 280 mg/cu m 1 min; symptoms of illness 50
ppm = 70 mg/cu m; unsatisfactory: 20 ppm = 28 mg/cu m
Man: lethal: 600 ppm/30 min; 800 ppm, immediate /lethality/
Lethal blood concentration: 0.092 mg %.
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
The direct action of H2S on mucous membranes is usually observed first by
symptoms of eye irritation, resulting from local inflammation of the conjunctiva
and cornea. Acute inflammation of conjunctiva accompanied by lacrimation and
mucopurulent exudate is not uncommon. In severe cases, corneal erosion with
blurred vision may also occur. Occasionally, corneal ulceration may occur,
resulting in impaired vision. Since the cornea is affected together with the
conjunctiva in many instances, keratoconjunctivitis rather than conjunctivitis
more accurately describes the ophthalmologic effects of H2S exposure. In
general, irritation of the eyes occurs at a concentration of H2S of 50 ppm;
however, conjunctivitis or "sore eyes" have been observed upon exposures in the
range of 5-100 ppm.
Eye and respiratory tract irritation is noticeable at 50 ppm. ...
Irritant to eyes and mucuous membranes ...
The irritant effect of H2S extends rather uniformly throughout the entire
respiratory tract, resulting in rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, bronchitis,
and pneumonia. Cough, sore throat, hoarseness, runny nose, and chest tightness
are the most common symptoms of exposure between 50 and 250 ppm.
Medical Surveillance:
Placement medical examinations should evaluate any existing neurological, eye
and respiratory conditions and any history of fainting seizures. It is
recommended by NIOSH that placement and periodic examinations (once every 3
years) be made available to all workers occupationally exposed to hydrogen
sulfide.
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Inhalation of gas, ingestion, eye, and skin contact.
MAJORITY OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE RESULTED FROM ITS
OCCURRENCE IN PETROLEUM, NATURAL GAS, SOIL, SEWER GAS & AS BYPRODUCT OF CHEM
REACTIONS, SUCH AS MAY TAKE PLACE IN VISCOSE RAYON & CERTAIN LEATHER TANNING
PROCESSES.
... /GAS/ RELEASED FROM SLURRY TANKS IN PIGGERIES WHEN THE SLURRY HAS
AGITATED PRIOR TO PUMPING. UNDER THESE CONDITIONS GAS CAN BUILD UP TO TOXIC
LEVEL (80-800 PPM); ON OCCASIONS MEN WORKING ON SITE HAVE BEEN OVERCOME.
LIQUID MANURE STORAGE IS A COMMON COMPONENT OF CONFINEMENT SYSTEMS FOR SWINE,
BEEF, DAIRY, AND VEAL OPERATIONS. MORE THAN 85,000 PEOPLE IN IOWA AND 500,000 IN
THE REST OF THE THE US WORK IN LIVESTOCK CONFINEMENT SYSTEMS THAT USE LIQUID
MANURE STORAGE. ... TOXIC GASES EMANATING FROM THE LIQUID MANURE /MAY INCLUDE
HYDROGEN SULFIDE/
GAS EXPOSURE RISK FROM COAL GASIFICATION PRODUCTS AT THE UCG PROJECT,
RAWLINS, WYOMING IS DISCUSSED.
Emergency Medical Treatment:
Emergency Medical Treatment:
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The following Overview, *** HYDROGEN SULFIDE ***, is relevant for this HSDB record chemical. |
| Life Support: |
o This overview assumes that basic life support measures
have been instituted. |
| Clinical Effects: |
SUMMARY OF EXPOSURE
0.2.1.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Hydrogen sulfide is a highly toxic, flammable,
colorless gas produced by decaying organic matter and
has a characteristic odor of rotten eggs at low
concentrations however, the sense of smell is paralyzed
at airborne levels above 50 to 150 ppm.
1. Exposure to concentrations of near 250 ppm causes
irritation of mucous membranes, conjunctivitis,
photophobia, lacrimation, corneal opacity, rhinitis,
bronchitis, cyanosis, and acute lung injury.
2. At concentrations of 250 to 500 ppm, signs and
symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea,
vertigo, amnesia, dizziness, apnea, palpitations,
tachycardia, hypotension, muscle cramps, weakness,
disorientation, and coma.
3. At concentrations of 750 to 1000 ppm, victims may
experience abrupt physical collapse or "knock down".
Higher concentrations may also result in result in
respiratory paralysis, asphyxial seizures, and death.
The mortality rate is in the range of 6 percent.
a. Characteristics of a fatal exposure are rapid "knock
down," respiratory depression, tremors, blurred
vision, cyanosis, seizures and tachycardia.
VITAL SIGNS
0.2.3.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Patients may acutely present with bradycardia,
tachycardia, hyperventilation, respiratory depression
even to the point of apnea, and/or hypo-/hypertension.
HEENT
0.2.4.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Injection of the conjunctivae, seeing colored halos,
ocular pain, corneal bullae, blurred vision and
blepharospasm may be noted following exposure to 150 to
300 ppm.
0.2.4.2 CHRONIC EXPOSURE
o Rhinitis may be seen with chronic exposure.
CARDIOVASCULAR
0.2.5.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Tachycardia, bradycardia, cardiac dysrhythmias, and
either hyper or hypotension may be seen.
RESPIRATORY
0.2.6.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Respiratory depression, cyanosis, pulmonary edema,
bronchitis, and dyspnea may be noted following exposure
to non-fatal concentrations.
o Exposure to high concentrations will result in rapid
respiratory paralysis leading to sudden collapse.
NEUROLOGIC
0.2.7.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Asphyxial seizures, coma, and death associated with
rapid respiratory paralysis may be noted following
exposure to high concentrations.
o Headache, sweating, vertigo, anosmia, irritability,
staggering gait, disorientation, somnolence, weakness,
confusion, and delirium may be noted following exposure
to non-fatal levels.
GASTROINTESTINAL
0.2.8.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Nausea and vomiting may be noted. Weight loss can be
seen with chronic exposure.
GENITOURINARY
0.2.10.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Exposure may rarely cause albuminuria, cylindruria, and
hematuria.
ACID-BASE
0.2.11.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Transient lactic acidosis may be noted following
significant exposure.
DERMATOLOGIC
0.2.14.1 ACUTE EXPOSURE
o Skin exposure may result in severe pain, itching, and
erythema, especially in moist areas. Cyanosis may be
noted following severe exposure.
REPRODUCTIVE HAZARDS
o Spontaneous abortions have occurred after exposure to
life-threatening concentrations.
CARCINOGENICITY
0.2.21.2 HUMAN OVERVIEW
o In Rotorua, New Zealand (an active geothermal zone
where hydrogen sulfide is released to the atmosphere),
cancer deaths were not related to the extent of
hydrogen sulfide exposure and there was no overall
excess mortality found.
GENOTOXICITY
o Hydrogen sulfide exposure was associated with an
increased risk of chromosome aberrations in chemical
workers. Other factors may be involved in these
multiply-exposed cohort populations. |
| Laboratory: |
o Monitor vital signs. Monitor pulse oximetry and/or
arterial blood gases and chest radiograph in patients
with respiratory signs or symptoms.
o Measuring blood sulfide or thiosulfate levels may be done
to document the exposure but are not useful for emergent
diagnosis or to guide emergency treatment.
o Monitor methemoglobin levels if nitrite antidotes are
administered. |
| Treatment Overview: |
SUMMARY EXPOSURE
o Move the victim to an area of fresh air and immediately
provide respiratory support using 100 percent humidified
oxygen.
o Although its efficacy is still unproven, nitrite therapy
is recommended if it can be started early.
o Hyperbaric oxygen may be given to those who continue to
be symptomatic after standard therapy.
o Measures should be taken to control seizures, pulmonary
edema, and arrhythmias and to correct hypotension.
o Exposed mucocutaneous surfaces should be thoroughly
washed with copious amounts of water and/or soap.
o Rescuers should wear a self-contained breathing
apparatus, special chemical protective clothing, and a
safety line during rescue operations. Many would-be
rescuers have become victims when entering contaminated
enclosed areas without proper protective equipment.
o Observe for delayed onset (up to 72 hours) acute
respiratory effects.
ORAL EXPOSURE
o Hydrogen sulfide is a gas at room temperature (Harbison,
1998), making ingestion unlikely.
INHALATION EXPOSURE
o IMMEDIATELY MOVE PATIENT TO FRESH AIR AND ADMINISTER 100
PERCENT OXYGEN. PREVENT SELF-EXPOSURE and possible
death by wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus to
rescue the victim.
o SEIZURES: Administer a benzodiazepine IV; DIAZEPAM
(ADULT: 5 to 10 mg, repeat every 10 to 15 min as
needed. CHILD: 0.2 to 0.5 mg/kg, repeat every 5 min
as needed) or LORAZEPAM (ADULT: 2 to 4 mg; CHILD: 0.05
to 0.1 mg/kg).
1. Consider phenobarbital if seizures recur after diazepam
30 mg (adults) or 10 mg (children > 5 years).
2. Monitor for hypotension, dysrhythmias, respiratory
depression, and need for endotracheal intubation.
Evaluate for hypoglycemia, electrolyte disturbances,
hypoxia.
o HYPOTENSION: Infuse 10 to 20 mL/kg isotonic fluid,
place in Trendelenburg position. If hypotension
persists, administer dopamine (5 to 20 mcg/kg/min) or
norepinephrine (0.1 to 0.2 mcg/kg/min), titrate to
desired response.
o NITRITE THERAPY - Amyl nitrite by inhalation and IV
sodium nitrite (found in cyanide antidote kit) may be
beneficial by forming sulfmethemoglobin, thus removing
sulfide from combination in tissue. Do NOT use sodium
thiosulfate. The antidotal efficacy of nitrite therapy
is controversial; it should be considered in patients
with severe symptoms who present soon after exposure.
o ACUTE LUNG INJURY: Maintain ventilation and oxygenation
and evaluate with frequent arterial blood gas or pulse
oximetry monitoring. Early use of PEEP and mechanical
ventilation may be needed.
DERMAL EXPOSURE
o DECONTAMINATION: Remove contaminated clothing and wash
exposed area thoroughly with soap and water. A
physician may need to examine the area if irritation or
pain persists. |
| Range of Toxicity: |
o At an airborne concentration of 0.05 ppm, hydrogen sulfide
produces a characteristic rotten eggs odor. At 50 to 150
ppm the sense of smell is paralyzed after a short time and
gradually worsening symptoms are noted.
o Exposure to greater than 500 ppm results in severe
toxicity and death. Respiratory paralysis and death may
be noted within 30 to 60 minutes. At 800 to 1000 ppm,
death may be nearly immediate after 1 or more breaths. |
Antidote and Emergency Treatment:
NITRITE AS AN ANTIDOTE FOR ACUTE HYDROGEN SULFIDE INTOXICATION CAN ONLY BE
EFFECTIVE WITHIN THE FIRST FEW MINUTES AFTER THE EXPOSURE, AT WHICH TIME
RESUSCITATION AND/OR VENTILATION OF THE VICTIM ARE LIKELY TO PRODUCE CONDITIONS
IN WHICH THE NITRITE ACTUALLY SLOWS SULFIDE REMOVAL /SRP: DUE TO DECR BINDING OF
THE SULFIDE TO METHEMOGLOBIN/.
Immediately remove person from exposure and ensure that the airway is clear.
Given 100% oxygen by tight-fitting oronasal mask or endotracheal tube.
Hyperbaric oxygen at 3 atm has been successful.
A CASE REPORT OF A 34-YEAR-OLD MALE RENDERED UNCONSCIOUS BY EXPOSURE TO A
HIGH CONCENTRATION OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE FUMES IS PRESENTED TO ILLUSTRATE THE
ADVANTAGES OF OXYGEN THERAPY. SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT IN BLOOD GASES WAS
ACHIEVED WITHIN 1 HOUR OF STARTING OXYGEN. THE RISKS OF NITRITE THERAPY ARE
DISCUSSED.
For basic treatment: Establish a patent airway. Suction if necessary. Watch
for signs of respiratory insufficiency and assist ventilations if necessary.
Administer oxygen by nonrebreather mask at 10 to 15 L/min. Monitor for pulmonary
edema and treat if necessary ... . Monitor for shock and treat if necessary ...
. Anticipate seizures and treat if necessary ... . For eye contamination, flush
eyes immediately with water. Irrigate each eye continuously with normal saline
during transport ... . Treat with rapid rewarming techniques ... if frostbite
occurs. /Hydrogen sulfide and related compounds/
For advanced treatment: Consider orotracheal or nasotracheal intubation for
airway control in the patient who is unconscious or in respiratory arrest.
Positive-pressure ventilation techniques with a bag-valve-mask device may be
beneficial. Monitor cardiac rhythm and treat arrhythmias if necessary ... .
Start an IV with D5W TKO /SRP: To keep open, "minimal flow rate"/. Use lactated
Ringer's if signs of hypovolemia are present. Watch for signs of fluid overload.
Consider drug therapy for pulmonary edema ... . For hypotension with signs of
hypovolemia, administer fluid cautiously. Watch for signs of pulmonary edema.
Consider vasopressors to treat hypotension without signs of hypovolemia ... .
Treat seizures with diazepam (Valium) ... . In severe cases use amyl nitrite and
sodium nitrite ... as described for cyanide poisoning; omit the sodium
thiosulfate injection. Early administration will be the most effective. DIRECT
PHYSICIAN ORDER ONLY ... . Use proparacaine hydrochloride to assist eye
irrigation ... . /Hydrogen sulfide and related compounds/
In two separate incidents, 6 patients were poisoned with hydrogen sulfide
(H2S) in sewer gas. In the first incident, mixing acid and sodium hydroxide
based drain cleaners in a confined space resulted in 4 poisonings and 2 deaths.
Three ... rescuers were seriously poisoned and 1 died. Two survivors had
neurological sequelae. Sodium nitrite appeared to have some clinical efficacy in
1 case. The second incident involved 2 patients working on a pump in a sewage
pond. A patient lying on a raft close to the pond was seriously poisoned; sodium
nitrite was clinically efficacious and this patient survived without developing
neurological sequelae. Sodium nitrate /needs/ further clinical study as a
potential H2S antidote.
A worker in a chemical synthetic factory had a presumed acute hydrogen
sulfide intoxication and suffered from repetitive generalized tonic convulsions,
cyanosis, shock and respiratory arrest. Dramatic response was obtained with amyl
nitrate inhalation followed by intravenous administration of sodium nitrate and
sodium thiosulfate. The rapid recovery without medical and neurological sequelae
supports the efficacy of nitrite treatment in acute hydrogen sulfide
intoxication.
Animal Toxicity Studies:
Evidence for Carcinogenicity:
There are no published reports of carcinogenesis, mutagenesis, or
teratogenesis attributable to hydrogen sulfide exposure.
Non-Human Toxicity Excerpts:
IF EXPOSURE IS NOT TOO GREAT, COUGHING, LACRIMATION, MUCOUS NASAL DISCHARGE,
DYSPNEA, DEPRESSION, FLUID SOUNDS IN LUNGS, & TERMINAL CYANOSIS &
POSSIBLE CONVULSIONS MAY OCCUR. LARGE CONCN OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE MAY CAUSE SUDDEN
COLLAPSE, CYANOSIS, DYSPNEA, ANOXIC CONVULSIONS, & RAPID DEATH. THERE MAY BE
PULMONARY EDEMA & EDEMA OF INTESTINES & BRAIN. BLOOD IS DARK & FAILS
TO CLOT. HEMORRHAGES MAY OCCUR IN VARIOUS ORGANS. LIVER & KIDNEY MAY
MANIFEST DEGENERATIVE CHANGES.
IN ANIMAL EXPT TEMPORARY DAMAGING EFFECT ... ON CORNEAL EPITHELIUM HAS ...
BEEN DEMONSTRATED ON ... DOGS, CATS, RABBITS, & GUINEA PIGS ... USUALLY BY
EXPOSURE TO 50 TO 100 PPM FOR SEVERAL HR OR DAYS.
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS RECORDS OF PIGS HAVING BEEN FATALLY POISONED BY
HYDROGEN SULFIDE RELEASED /GAS/ FROM SLURRY TANKS IN PIGGERIES WHEN SLURRY HAS
BEEN AGITATED PRIOR TO PUMPING. UNDER THESE CONDITIONS GAS CAN RAPIDLY BUILD UP
TO A TOXIC LEVEL (80-800 PPM). CATTLE HAVE ALSO BEEN POISONED IN THIS WAY;
CALVES SHOWED ATAXIA & ENTERITIS. ... ALTHOUGH SUDDEN EXPOSURE TO CONCN OF
0.04% MIGHT BE FATAL TO PIGS, THERE WERE NO PERMANENT ILL EFFECTS IN ANIMALS
SURVIVING EXPOSURE TO 0.1% /OBSERVED/.
CASES POULTRY POISONING HAVE ... BEEN RECORDED. /AN/ EPISODE OCCURRED IN A
BATTERY LAYING HOUSE; BIRDS AFFECTED WERE NEAREST /TO/ THE GROUND & TO A
LEAKING MANHOLE COVER.
EXPOSURE OF CHANNEL CATFISH TO 0.5 MG/L HYDROGEN SULFIDE AT 20 DEG C RESULTED
IN HYPERPNEA, FOLLOWED BY APNEA AND RESPIRATORY ARREST.
/Ten species of weeds 3 to 6 weeks of age were/ fumigated with 100 to 500 ppm
hydrogen sulfide for four hours. /Results suggested that/ differences in
susceptibility to injury /existed/ and ... that younger plants were more
sensitive to damage than older ones. /Data also suggested/ that increases in
temperature exacerbated the damage, as did dry soil.
In high concentrations (1000 to 3000 ppm) hydrogen sulfide was lethal to
dogs. At 3000 ppm, respiration ceased after a few breaths; death occurred within
15 to 20 minutes at 1000 ppm.
...exposed monkeys at 500 ppm for durations of 22 to 35 min. Each of three
monkeys lost consciousness abruptly in about 15 min.; microscopic examination
revealed that the brain, particularly the motor cells of the cerebellum, was the
principal target organ ...
POISONING WITH HYDROGEN SULFIDE ... HAS BEEN DESCRIBED FROM DRINKING
CONTAMINATED WATER.
... The central nervous system (CNS) appears to be the major target organ
/for hydrogen sulfide toxicity/. There is great potential for insult or injury
to the developing or immature CNS. The risk of chronic or repeated exposures to
low concn have not been well defined. Exposure to low concn of H2S to time
pregnant rats from day 5 post coitus until day 21 postnatal results in
architectural modification of cerebellar Purkinje cells, alteration of putative
amino acid neurotransmitters and changes in monoamine levels in the developing
rat brain up day 21 postnatal. H2S induced alterations in monoamine tissue
levels observed in the developing rat brain return to control values if exposure
is discontinued during development, that is, at day 21 postnatal.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) may produce deleterious effects on the developing
central nervous system. The dendritic fields of developing Purkinje cells were
analyzed to determine the effects of chronic exposure to low concn of H2S during
perinatal development. Treatment with the two concn (20 and 50 ppm) of H2S
produced severe alterations in the architecture and growth characteristics of
the Purkinje cell dendritic fields. The ... modifications included longer
branches, an incr in the vertex path length and variations in the number of
branches in particular areas of the dendritic field.The treated cells ...
exhibited a non-symmetrical growth pattern at a time when random terminal
branching is normally occurring. ...
IN ADDN TO INCR VENTILATION, SMALL PARENTERAL DOSES OF SULFIDE IN LAB ANIMALS
PRODUCE FLEETING RISE FOLLOWED BY PROFOUND (PERHAPS IRREVERSIBLE) FALL IN BLOOD
PRESSURE. DEATH ... IS INVARIABLY RESULT OF CENTRAL RESP PARALYSIS. /HYDROGEN
SULFIDE/
Non-Human Toxicity Values:
LC50 Rhesus monkey inhalation 700 mg/cu m/35 min.
LC50 Mouse inhalation 1500 mg/cu m/18 min
LC50 Mouse inhalation 380 mg/cu m/410 min
LC50 Mouse inhalation 96 mg/cu m/804 min
LC50 Mouse inhalation 24 mg/cu m/ > 960 min
LC50 Rat inhalation 1500 mg/cu m/14 min
LC50 Rat inhalation 380 mg/ cu m > 960 min
Ecotoxicity Values:
TLm Asellus sp 0.111 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
TLm Crangonyx sp 1.07 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
TLm Gammarus sp 0.84 mg/l/96 hr /Conditions of bioassay not specified/
LC50 Fly inhalation 380 mg/cu m/ > 960 min
LC50 Fly inhalation 1500 mg/cum/7 min
TLm Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill sunfish) eggs 0.0190 mg/l/72 hr at 21-22
deg C in a flow through bioassay
TLm Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill sunfish) 35 day old fry 0.0131 mg/l/96 hr
at 21-22 deg C in a flow through bioassay
TLm Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill sunfish) juveniles 0.0478 mg/l/96 hr at
21-22 deg C in a flow through bioassay
TLm Lepomis macrochirus (bluegill sunfish) adults 0.0448 mg/l/96 hr at 21-22
deg C in a flow through bioassay
TLm Pimephales promelas (fathead minnow) 0.0071-0.55 mg/l/96 hr at 6-24 deg C
in a flow through bioassay
TLm Salvelinus fontinalis (brook trout) 0.0216-0.038 mg/l/96 hr at 8-12.5 deg
C in a flow through bioassay
Metabolism/Pharmacokinetics:
Metabolism/Metabolites:
With the body, H2S is metabolized by oxidation, methylation, and reaction
with metallo- or disulfide-containing proteins.
... In the bloodstream the gas is converted to alkali sulfide. The
hydrosulfide radical is excreted by the lungs and in urine. Part of the sulfide
is oxidized to sulfate and thiosulfate ... .
Absorption, Distribution & Excretion:
...the lung rather than the skin is the primary route of absorption. The
dermal absorption of hydrogen sulfide is minimal. Results from animal inhalation
studies indicate that H2S is distributed in the body to the brain, liver,
kidneys, pancreas, and small intestine.
... Hydrogen sulfide is readily absorbed through the skin, lung and digestive
tract lining. ... Some of the sulfide may be trapped by natural disulfides in
the bloodstream. Some sulfide is also excreted as iron sulfide in feces.
FIRST ACID DISSOCIATION CONSTANT OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE IS ABOUT 1X10-7 MOLAR SO
THAT IN BODY FLUIDS DISSOCIATED & UNDISSOCIATED HYDROGEN SULFIDE EXIST IN
ABOUT EQUAL PROPORTIONS. UNDISSOCIATED ACID, HOWEVER, PENETRATES BIOLOGICAL
MEMBRANES MORE RAPIDLY THAN THE HYDROSULFIDE ANION. /HYDROGEN SULFIDE/
Mechanism of Action:
HYDROSULFIDE ANION (HS-) ... FORMS COMPLEX WITH METHEMOGLOBIN KNOWN AS
SULFMETHEMOGLOBIN, WHICH IS ANALOGOUS TO CYANMETHEMOGLOBIN. ... DISSOCIATION
CONSTANT FOR SULFMETHEMOGLOBIN HAS BEEN EST AS 6X10-6 MOLES/L WHERE AS THE
DISSOCIATION CONSTANT FOR CYANMETHEMOGLOBIN IS ABOUT 2X10-8 MOLES/L. DESPITE
LOWER BINDING AFFINITY FOR SULFIDE, INDUCED METHEMOGLOBINEMIA PROVIDES
UNEQUIVOCAL PROTECTION AGAINST DEATH FROM ACUTE SULFIDE POISONING IN ANIMALS.
THE ABSORPTION OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE (H2S) GAS BY SCIATIC NERVE BUNDLES FROM
RANA PIPIENS PRODUCES AN ANESTHETIC EFFECT OF SHORT DURATION. UNLIKE HYDROGEN
CYANIDE THERE IS NO INDICATION THAT HYDROGEN SULFIDE INHIBITS THE ENERGY
METABOLISM OF THE NERVE CELLS, EXCEPT POSSIBLY WHEN THE NERVES ARE EXPOSED TO
EXTREMELY HIGH SULFIDE CONCENTRATIONS. A MODE OF ACTION FOR HYDROGEN SULFIDE IS
PROPOSED.
...interferes with the function of oxidative enzymes, mainly cytochrome
oxidase, and results in tissue hypoxia.
Hydrogen sulfide is a ... potent inhibitor of the cytochrome oxidase system
... .
SUDDEN DEATH FROM INHALATION OF LARGE CONCN OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE DUE TO
INHIBITION OF CELLULAR RESP IN VITAL TISSUES, PARTICULARLY BRAIN. ... APPARENTLY
... INHIBIT/S/ CYTOCHROME OXIDASE, THUS INHIBITING ELECTRON-TRANSPORT SYSTEM.
Interactions:
Pregnant rats were exposed to 0, 100, 200, 400 or 800 ppm of carbon disulfide
(CS2), 100 ppm hydrogen sulfide (H2S) alone or in combination with 400 or 800
ppm CS2, 6 hr/day during days 6-20 gestation. Maternal reproduction and fetal
parameters were evaluated on gestational day 21. Treatment with 100 or 200 ppm
CS2 or with 100 ppm H2S caused no maternal toxicity or adverse effects on the
developing embryo or fetus. Exposure to 400 or 800 ppm CS2 resulted in a low
incidence of club foot and in a significant reduction of maternal weight gain.
Significant incr in unossified sternebrae occurred at 800 ppm CS2 and reduction
of fetal body weight at 400 and 800 ppm CS2. The latter effect was enhanced by
combination with 100 ppm H2S. ... At levels of exposure associated with maternal
toxicity, CS2 leads to an incr in incidence of club foot and to fetal toxicity
which is enhanced by simultaneous exposure to H2S.
Hydrogen sulfide ... is produced endogenously in mammalian tissues from
L-cysteine mainly by two pyridoxal-5'-phosphate dependent enzymes, cystathionine
beta-synthetase and cystathionine gamma-lyase. ... Cystathionine beta-synthetase
in the brain produces H2S, and that H2S facilitates the induction of hippocampal
long term potentiation by enhancing NMDA receptor activity. ... mRNA for another
H2S producing enzyme, cystathionine gamma-lyase is expressed in the ileum,
portal vein and thoracic aorta. The ileum also expresses cystathionine
beta-synthetase mRNA. These tissues produce H2S, and this production is blocked
by cystathionine beta-synthetase and cystathionine gamma-lyase specific
inhibitors. Although exogenously applied H2S alone relaxed these smooth muscles,
much lower concn of H2S greatly enhanced the smooth muscle relaxation induced by
NO in the thoracic aorta. These observations suggest that the endogenous H2S may
regulate smooth muscle tone in synergy with NO.
Pharmacology:
Interactions:
Pregnant rats were exposed to 0, 100, 200, 400 or 800 ppm of carbon disulfide
(CS2), 100 ppm hydrogen sulfide (H2S) alone or in combination with 400 or 800
ppm CS2, 6 hr/day during days 6-20 gestation. Maternal reproduction and fetal
parameters were evaluated on gestational day 21. Treatment with 100 or 200 ppm
CS2 or with 100 ppm H2S caused no maternal toxicity or adverse effects on the
developing embryo or fetus. Exposure to 400 or 800 ppm CS2 resulted in a low
incidence of club foot and in a significant reduction of maternal weight gain.
Significant incr in unossified sternebrae occurred at 800 ppm CS2 and reduction
of fetal body weight at 400 and 800 ppm CS2. The latter effect was enhanced by
combination with 100 ppm H2S. ... At levels of exposure associated with maternal
toxicity, CS2 leads to an incr in incidence of club foot and to fetal toxicity
which is enhanced by simultaneous exposure to H2S.
Hydrogen sulfide ... is produced endogenously in mammalian tissues from
L-cysteine mainly by two pyridoxal-5'-phosphate dependent enzymes, cystathionine
beta-synthetase and cystathionine gamma-lyase. ... Cystathionine beta-synthetase
in the brain produces H2S, and that H2S facilitates the induction of hippocampal
long term potentiation by enhancing NMDA receptor activity. ... mRNA for another
H2S producing enzyme, cystathionine gamma-lyase is expressed in the ileum,
portal vein and thoracic aorta. The ileum also expresses cystathionine
beta-synthetase mRNA. These tissues produce H2S, and this production is blocked
by cystathionine beta-synthetase and cystathionine gamma-lyase specific
inhibitors. Although exogenously applied H2S alone relaxed these smooth muscles,
much lower concn of H2S greatly enhanced the smooth muscle relaxation induced by
NO in the thoracic aorta. These observations suggest that the endogenous H2S may
regulate smooth muscle tone in synergy with NO.
Environmental Fate & Exposure:
Probable Routes of Human Exposure:
Inhalation of gas, ingestion, eye, and skin contact.
MAJORITY OF OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURES TO HYDROGEN SULFIDE RESULTED FROM ITS
OCCURRENCE IN PETROLEUM, NATURAL GAS, SOIL, SEWER GAS & AS BYPRODUCT OF CHEM
REACTIONS, SUCH AS MAY TAKE PLACE IN VISCOSE RAYON & CERTAIN LEATHER TANNING
PROCESSES.
... /GAS/ RELEASED FROM SLURRY TANKS IN PIGGERIES WHEN THE SLURRY HAS
AGITATED PRIOR TO PUMPING. UNDER THESE CONDITIONS GAS CAN BUILD UP TO TOXIC
LEVEL (80-800 PPM); ON OCCASIONS MEN WORKING ON SITE HAVE BEEN OVERCOME.
LIQUID MANURE STORAGE IS A COMMON COMPONENT OF CONFINEMENT SYSTEMS FOR SWINE,
BEEF, DAIRY, AND VEAL OPERATIONS. MORE THAN 85,000 PEOPLE IN IOWA AND 500,000 IN
THE REST OF THE THE US WORK IN LIVESTOCK CONFINEMENT SYSTEMS THAT USE LIQUID
MANURE STORAGE. ... TOXIC GASES EMANATING FROM THE LIQUID MANURE /MAY INCLUDE
HYDROGEN SULFIDE/
GAS EXPOSURE RISK FROM COAL GASIFICATION PRODUCTS AT THE UCG PROJECT,
RAWLINS, WYOMING IS DISCUSSED.
Natural Pollution Sources:
IN SULFUR SPRINGS, volcanic gas, natural gas, and a component of crude
petroleum.
HIGH LEVELS OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE IN A FLORIDA WELL WATER SOURCE WERE
APPARENTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR ATTACKING /CORRODING/ A/C PIPE.
... GAS /PRODUCED/ FROM DECOMP MANURE ... /&/ LEAKING /SEWER/ MANHOLE
COVER.
... /FROM/ VOLCANIC GASES IN HIGH CONCN.
Artificial Pollution Sources:
... POLLUTANT IN ATMOSPHERE IN /VICINITY/ OF INDUSTRIAL PAPER PLANTS USING
KRAFT PROCESS.
In cigarette smoke: 40 ppm; combustion of coal: 0.0045 lb/lb coal; combustion
of fuel oil: 1 lb/1,000 lb gas; combustion of natural gas: 0.13 lb/1,000 lb gas;
In municipal sewer air: 0.2-10 ppm.
THERMAL DEGRADATION OF POLYPHENYLENE SULFIDE MAY YIELD HYDROGEN SULFIDE ... .
Hydrogen sulfide is a by product of many industrial operations, eg, coking
and the hydrodesulfurization of crude oil and of coal
Guidotti TL; Occupat Med 46 (5): 367-71 (1996)... Hydrogen sulfide is
produced in pulp mills. ...
Environmental Fate:
Atmospheric Fate: The lifetime of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is affected by
ambient temperature and other atmospheric variables including humidity,
sunshine, and presence of other pollutants. The decreased temperatures and
decreased levels of hydroxide in northern regions (e.g. Alberta, Canada) in
winter increase the residence time of H2S in air.
Once released into the atmosphere, hydrogen sulfide will behave like many
other gaseous pollutants and be dispersed and eventually removed. Residence
times in the atmosphere range from about one day to more than 40 days, depending
upon season, latitude, and atmospheric conditions.
Environmental Biodegradation:
Microorganisms in soil and water are involved in oxidation-reduction
reactions which oxidize hydrogen sulfide to elemental sulfur. Members of the
genera Beggiatoa, Thioploca, and Thiotrix function in transition zones between
aerobic and anaerobic conditions where both molecular oxygen and hydrogen
sulfide are found. /Also/ some photosynthetic bacteria oxidize hydrogen sulfide
to elemental sulfur. Members of the families Chlorobiaceae and Chromatiaceae
(purple sulfur bacteria) are obligate aerobes and are phototropic, and are found
in waters with high H2S concentrations. The interactions of these organisms form
part of the global sulfur cycle.
Environmental Abiotic Degradation:
Hydrogen sulfide does not absorb solar radiation reaching the tropsphere. It
does not, therefore, undergo photolysis or react photochemically with oxygen.
... The primary chemical transformation of hydrogen sulfide in the atmosphere is
oxidation by oxygen containing radicals to sulfur dioxide and sulfates.
Environmental Bioconcentration:
Does not have bioaccumulation or food chain contamination potential.
Soil Adsorption/Mobility:
Anhydrous hydrogen sulfide has a boiling point of 60.3 deg C at 1 atm.
Consequently, when it is spilled onto soil, much will evaporate. However, since
it is very soluble in water, the presence of water in soil or falling as
precipitation at the time of the spill may contribute to movement in the soil.
If the soil surface is saturated with moisture at the time of the spill as might
be the case after a rainfall, the spill chemical will runoff and/or evaporate
away.
Volatilization from Water/Soil:
Anhydrous hydrogen sulfide has a boiling point of -60.3 deg C at a pressure
of 1 atmosphere. Consequently, when it is spilled onto soil, much will
evaporate.
Atmospheric Concentrations:
Ambient levels of hydrogen sulfide tend to be low, in the range of 0.001
mg/m3. Pollution episodes have reached levels of nearly 0.5 mg/cu m (0.7 ppm) in
levels as high as 14.3 mg/cu m (20 ppm). At least one release in Poza Rica,
Mexico emitted lethal levels of gas.
Environmental Standards & Regulations:
CERCLA Reportable Quantities:
Persons in charge of vessels or facilities are required to notify the
National Response Center (NRC) immediately, when there is a release of this
designated hazardous substance, in an amount equal to or greater than its
reportable quantity of 100 lb or 45.4 kg. The toll free number of the NRC is
(800) 424-8802; In the Washington D.C. metropolitan area (202) 426-2675. The
rule for determining when notification is required is stated in 40 CFR 302.4
(section IV. D.3.b).
Releases of CERCLA hazardous substances are subject to the release reporting
requirement of CERCLA section 103, codified at 40 CFR part 302, in addition to
the requirements of 40 CFR part 355. Hydrogen sulfide is an extremely hazardous
substance (EHS) subject to reporting requirements when stored in amounts in
excess of its threshold planning quantity (TPQ) of 500 lbs.
RCRA Requirements:
U135; As stipulated in 40 CFR 261.33, when hydrogen sulfide, as a commercial
chemical product or manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off-specification
commercial chemical product or a manufacturing chemical intermediate, becomes a
waste, it must be managed according to Federal and/or State hazardous waste
regulations. Also defined as a hazardous waste is any residue, contaminated
soil, water, or other debris resulting from the cleanup of a spill, into water
or on dry land, of this waste. Generators of small quantities of this waste may
qualify for partial exclusion from hazardous waste regulations (40 CFR 261.5).
Clean Water Act Requirements:
Designated as a hazardous substance under section 311(b)(2)(A) of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act and further regulated by the Clean Water Act
Amendments of 1977 and 1978. These regulations apply to discharges of this
substance.
State Drinking Water Guidelines:
(WI) WISCONSIN 30 ug/l
Chemical/Physical Properties:
Molecular Formula:
H2-S
Molecular Weight:
34.08
Color/Form:
Colorless gas [Shipped as a liquefied compressed gas].
Odor:
Strong odor of rotten eggs [Note: Sense of smell becomes rapidly fatigued
& can NOT be relied upon to warn of the continuous presense of hydrogen
sulfide].
Offensive odor.
Taste:
SWEETISH TASTE
Boiling Point:
-60.33 DEG C
Melting Point:
-85.49 DEG C
Corrosivity:
Anhydrous hydrogen sulfide has low general corrosivity toward carbon steel,
aluminum, Inconel, Stellite and 300-series stainless steels at moderate
temperatures. Temperatures greater than ca 260 deg C can produce severe
sulfidation of carbon steel. Wet hydrogen sulfide can be quite corrosive to
carbon steel.
Critical Temperature & Pressure:
Critical temperature: 373.56K; 100.4 deg C; 212.7 deg F Critical pressure;
9010 KPa; 90.1 bar; 1 306.5 psia; 88.9 atm
Critical temperature: 373.2 K; critical pressure: 8.94 MPa.
Density/Specific Gravity:
1.5392 G/L AT 0 DEG C @ 760 MM HG; GAS: 1.19 (AIR= 1.00)
Dissociation Constants:
pKa1 = 7.04; pKa2 = 11.96
Heat of Vaporization:
Molar enthalpy of vaporization: 14.08 kJ/mol at 25 deg C; 18.67 kJ/mol at
-59.55 deg C.
pH:
FRESHLY PREPARED WATER SOLN: 4.5
Solubilities:
SOL IN CARBON DISULFIDE
1 G DISSOLVES IN 94.3 ML ABSOLUTE ALCOHOL @ 20 DEG C
1 G DISSOLVES IN 48.5 ML ETHER AT 20 DEG C
In water, 3980 mg/l at 20 deg C.
Soluble in glycerol, gasoline, kerosene, carbon disulfide, crude oil.
Soluble in certain polar organic solvents, notably methanol, acetone,
propylene carbonate, sulfolane, tributyl phosphate, various glycols, and glycol
ethers. N-Methylpyrrolidine dissolves 49 ml/g at 20 deg C at atmospheric
pressure.
Spectral Properties:
INDEX OF REFRACTION (LIQ): 1.374
Vapor Density:
1.189
Vapor Pressure:
1.56X10+4 mm Hg @ 25 deg C /from experimentally-derived coefficients/
Viscosity:
Gas at 101.325 KPa at 25 deg C; 0.012 8 m Pa.S; 0.012 8 cP.
Other Chemical/Physical Properties:
Triple Point; 187.62 K; -85.5 deg C; -122.0 deg F: Absolute density, Gas at
101.325 kPa at 25 deg C 1.506 kg/cu m: Relative density, Gas at 101.325 kPa at
25 deg C (Air = 1) 1.188: Density, Liquid at Saturation Pressure at -60.3 deg C
0.960 kg/l: Critical Temperature 373.56 K; 100.4 deg C; 212.7 deg F: Critical
Volume 2.867 dm3/kg: Critical Density 0.349 kg/dm3: Critical Compressibility
Factor 0.283: Latent Heat of Fusion at -85.5 deg C 2 376.5 J/mol; 69 741.2 J/kg;
16.67 kcal/kg Thermal Conductivity, Gas at 101.325 kPa at 15.6 deg C 0.014 004
W/(m.K); 33.5 x 10-6 cal/(sq cm deg C) Solubility In Water at 101.325 kOPa at 25
deg C 2.257 cu m/1 cu m water: Index of Refraction, Gas at 101.325 kPa, ND at 25
deg C 1.000 584 5: Dielectric Constant; Gas at 0 deg C, 101.325 kPa 1.004:
Liquid at -78.5 deg C 9.05.
Water solutions of hydrogen sulfide are not stable, absorbed oxygen causes
the formation of elemental sulfur and the solutions become turbid rapidly. In a
50:50 v/v mixture of glycerol and water the precipitation of sulfur is retarded
considerably.
Burns in air with a pale blue flame.
Chemical Safety & Handling:
DOT Emergency Guidelines:
Health: TOXIC; Extremely Hazardous. May be fatal if inhaled or absorbed
through skin. Initial odor may be irritating or foul and may deaden your sense
of smell. Contact with gas or liquefied gas may cause burns, severe injury
and/or frostbite. Fire will produce irritating, corrosive and/or toxic gases.
Runoff from fire control may cause pollution. /Hydrogen sulfide; Hydrogen
sulfide, liquefied/
Fire or explosion: These materials are extremely flammable. May form
explosive mixtures with air. May be ignited by heat, sparks or flames. Vapors
from liquefied gas are initially heavier than air and spread along ground.
Vapors may travel to source of ignition and flash back. Runoff may create fire
or explosion hazard. Containers may explode when heated. Ruptured cylinders may
rocket. /Hydrogen sulfide; Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
Public safety: CALL Emergency Response Telephone Number. ... Isolate spill or
leak area immediately for at least 100 to 200 meters (330 to 660 feet) in all
directions. Keep unauthorized personnel away. Stay upwind. Many gases are
heavier than air and will spread along ground and collect in low or confined
areas (sewers, basements, tanks). Keep out of low areas. Ventilate closed spaces
before entering. /Hydrogen sulfide; Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
Protective clothing: Wear positive pressure self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA). Wear chemical protective clothing which is specifically
recommended by the manufacturer. It may provide little or no thermal protection.
Structural firefighters' protective clothing provides limited protection in fire
situations ONLY; it is not effective in spill situations. /Hydrogen sulfide;
Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
Evacuation: ... Fire: If tank, rail car or tank truck is involved in a fire,
ISOLATE for l600 meters (1 mile) in all directions; also, consider initial
evacuation for 1600 meters (1 mile) in all directions. /Hydrogen sulfide;
Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
Fire: DO NOT EXTINGUISH A LEAKING GAS FIRE UNLESS LEAK CAN BE STOPPED. Small
fires: Dry chemical, CO2, water spray or regular foam. Large fires: Water spray,
fog or regular foam. Move containers from fire area if you can do it without
risk. Damaged cylinders should be handled only by specialists. Fire involving
tanks: Fight fire from maximum distance or use unmanned hose holders or monitor
nozzles. Cool containers with flooding quantities of water until well after fire
is out. Do not direct water at source of leak or safety devices; icing may
occur. Withdraw immediately in case of rising sound from venting safety devices
or discoloration of tank. ALWAYS stay away from tanks engulfed in fire.
/Hydrogen sulfide; Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
Spill or leak: ELIMINATE all ignition sources (no smoking, flares, sparks or
flames in immediate area). All equipment used when handling the product must be
grounded. Fully encapsulating, vapor protective clothing should be worn for
spills and leaks with no fire. Do not touch or walk through spilled material.
Stop leak if you can do it without risk. Use water spray to reduce vapors or
divert vapor cloud drift. Avoid allowing water runoff to contact spilled
material. Do not direct water at spill or source of leak. If possible, turn
leaking containers so that gas escapes rather than liquid. Prevent entry into
waterways, sewers, basements or confined areas. Isolate area until gas has
dispersed. Consider igniting spill or leak to eliminate toxic gas concerns.
/Hydrogen sulfide; Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
First aid: Move victim to fresh air. Call 911 or emergency medical service.
Apply artificial respiration if victim is not breathing. Do not use
mouth-to-mouth method if victim ingested or inhaled the substance induce
artificial respiration with the aid of a pocket mask equipped with a one-way
valve or other proper respiratory medical device. Administer oxygen if breathing
is difficult. Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes. In case of
contact with substance, immediately flush skin or eyes with running water for at
least 20 minutes. In case of contact with liquefied gas, thaw frosted parts with
lukewarm water. Keep victim warm and quiet. Keep victim under observation.
Effects of contact or inhalation may be delayed. Ensure that medical personnel
are aware of the material(s) involved, and take precautions to protect
themselves. /Hydrogen sulfide; Hydrogen sulfide, liquefied/
Initial Isolation and Protective Action Distances: Small Spills (from a small
package or small leak from a large package): First, ISOLATE in all Directions 30
meters (100 feet); then, PROTECT persons Downwind during DAY 0.2 kilometers (0.1
miles) and NIGHT 0.3 kilometers (0.2 miles). LARGE SPILLS (from a large package
or from many small packages): First, ISOLATE in all Directions 215 meters (700
feet); then, PROTECT persons Downwind during DAY 1.4 kilometers (0.9 miles) and
NIGHT 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles).
Odor Threshold:
0.05 ppm
Detection limit in air: 1.30x10-1 ppm (purity not specified)
Detection limit in air: 1.80x10-4 ppm (purity not specified)
Detection limit in air: 4.7x10-3 ppm (chemically pure)
Odor low = 0.0007 cu m; Odor high = 0.0140 cu m; irritating conc. 14.00 mg/cu
m.
... Olfactory fatigue level: 100 ppm. Olfactory nerve paralysis: 150 ppm. ...
Skin, Eye and Respiratory Irritations:
The direct action of H2S on mucous membranes is usually observed first by
symptoms of eye irritation, resulting from local inflammation of the conjunctiva
and cornea. Acute inflammation of conjunctiva accompanied by lacrimation and
mucopurulent exudate is not uncommon. In severe cases, corneal erosion with
blurred vision may also occur. Occasionally, corneal ulceration may occur,
resulting in impaired vision. Since the cornea is affected together with the
conjunctiva in many instances, keratoconjunctivitis rather than conjunctivitis
more accurately describes the ophthalmologic effects of H2S exposure. In
general, irritation of the eyes occurs at a concentration of H2S of 50 ppm;
however, conjunctivitis or "sore eyes" have been observed upon exposures in the
range of 5-100 ppm.
Eye and respiratory tract irritation is noticeable at 50 ppm. ...
Irritant to eyes and mucuous membranes ...
The irritant effect of H2S extends rather uniformly throughout the entire
respiratory tract, resulting in rhinitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis, bronchitis,
and pneumonia. Cough, sore throat, hoarseness, runny nose, and chest tightness
are the most common symptoms of exposure between 50 and 250 ppm.
Fire Potential:
FLAMMABLE GAS. LOW IGNITION ENERGY.
NFPA Hazard Classification:
FLAMMABILITY: 4. 4= VERY FLAMMABLE GASES, VERY VOLATILE FLAMMABLE LIQ, &
MATERIALS THAT IN FORM OF DUSTS OR MISTS READILY FORM EXPLOSIVE MIXTURES WHEN
DISPERSED IN AIR. SHUT OFF FLOW OF GAS OR LIQ & KEEP COOLING WATER STREAMS
ON EXPOSED TANKS OR CONTAINERS. USE WATER SPRAY CAREFULLY IN VICINITY OF DUSTS
SO AS NOT TO CREATE DUST CLOUDS.
Flammability: 4. 4= This degree includes flammable gases, pyrophoric liquids,
and Class IA flammable liquids. The preferred method of fire attack is to stop
the flow of material or to protect exposures while allowing the fire to burn
itself out.
REACTIVITY: 0. 0= MATERIALS WHICH ARE NORMALLY STABLE EVEN UNDER FIRE
EXPOSURE CONDITIONS & WHICH ARE NOT REACTIVE WITH WATER. NORMAL FIRE
FIGHTING PROCEDURES MAY BE USED.
Flammable Limits:
LOWER: 4.0; UPPER: 44% (1% by vol)
Autoignition Temperature:
500 DEG F (260 DEG C)
Fire Fighting Procedures:
STOP FLOW OF GAS. USE WATER TO KEEP FIRE EXPOSED CONTAINERS COOL & TO
PROTECT MEN EFFECTING SHUT OFF.
Do not extinguish fire unless flow can be stopped. Use water in flooding
quantities as fog. Apply water from as far a distance as possible. Cool all
affected containers with flooding quantities of water. Use water spray to
knock-down vapors.
Evacuation: If fire becomes uncontrollable or container is exposed to direct
flame - consider evacuation of one-half (1/2) mile radius.
Firefighting Hazards:
HEAVIER THAN AIR ... & MAY TRAVEL CONSIDERABLE DISTANCE TO SOURCE OF
IGNITION & FLASHBACK.
Explosive Limits & Potential:
Lower explosive limit: 4.3% Upper explosive limit: 45.5%
Moderately explosive when exposed to heat or flame. Explodes on contact with
oxygen difluoride; nitrogen trichloride; bromine pentafluoride; chlorine
trifluoride; dichlorine oxide; silver fulminate. Potentially explosive reaction
with copper + oxygen. Explosive reaction when heated with perchloryl fluoride
(above 100 degrees C); oxygen (above 280 degrees C).
FORMS EXPLOSIVE MIXTURES WITH AIR OVER WIDE RANGE.
Hazardous Reactivities & Incompatibilities:
Fuming nitric acid reacts with incandescence with hydrogen sulfide.
FORMS EXPLOSIVE REACTIONS WITH BROMINE PENTAFLUORIDE, CHLORINE TRIFLUORIDE,
NITROGEN TRIIODIDE, NITROGEN TRICHLORIDE, OXYGEN DIFLUORIDE & PHENYL
DIAZONIUM CHLORIDE.
Addition of powdered copper to 1:2 mixture of hydrogen sulfide and oxygen
causes the metal to become incandescent and ignite the explosive mixture.
A mixture of /hydrogen sulfide/ with air passed over copper powder may attain
red heat. Finely divided tungsten glows red hot in a stream of hydrogen sulfide.
Hydrogen sulfide is rapidly oxidized and may ignite in contact with a range
of metal oxides, including barium peroxide, ... copper oxide, lead dioxide,
manganese dioxide, nickel oxide, silver(I)oxide, silver(II)oxide, sodium
peroxide and thallium(III)oxide. In the presence of air, contact with mixtures
of calcium oxide or barium oxide with mercury oxide or nickel oxide may cause
vivid incandescence or explosion.
When hydrogen sulfide is passed over heated chromium trioxide, decomposition
occurs with incandescence.
Fluorine ignites in contact with hydrogen sulfide.
Hydrogen sulfide ignites in contact with chlorine monoxide.
Strong oxidizers, strong nitric acid, metals.
Hazardous Decomposition:
When heated to decomposition it emits highly toxic fumes of sulfoxides.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health:
100 ppm
Protective Equipment & Clothing:
/WEAR/ RUBBER-FRAMED GOGGLES; APPROVED RESP PROTECTION.
THE USE OF LIQUID MANURE STORAGE FACILITIES POSES SEVERAL SERIOUS THREATS:
TOXIC GAS INHALATION, ASPHYXIATION, ASPIRATION OF LIQUID MANURE, AND INFECTION.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE POISONING IN A MANURE STORAGE PIT RESULTED IN THREE DEATHS.
THESE ACCIDENTS CAN BE PREVENTED BY THE USE OF A SELF-CONTAINED BREATHING
APPARATUS AND A SAFETY LINE, AS WELL AS THE PRESENCE OF A SECOND PERSON FOR
RESCUE IF NECESSARY.
Wear appropriate chemical protective clothing. Wear positive pressure
self-contained breathing apparatus.
Safety devices by the DOT and approved by The Bureau of Explosives are
required in hydrogen sulfide service, but are prohibited on DOT 106-A800X
containers. The type approved is fusible metal having a melting point of
approximately 73.9 deg C (165 deg F). When the cylinder is over 30 inches long,
this type of device is required in both ends of the cylinder. When this device
is placed in a valve it must either be poured into the valve, making it
inaccessible, or put into a round plug which screws into the back of the valve.
Due to the fact that many of the fusible devices in hydrogen sulfide cylinder
valves were developing pin hole leaks, Matheson has gained approval from the
Bureau of Explosives to ship cylinders with valves having safety devices
containing a frangible disc that is gold plated, and prevents any corrosion from
taking place at the interface between the valve body and the fusible metal, thus
preventing leaks from developing.
Wear appropriate personal protective clothing to prevent the skin from
becoming frozen from contact with the liquid or from contact with vessels
containing the liquid.
Wear appropriate eye protection to prevent eye contact with the liquid that
could result in burns or tissue damage from frostbite.
Quick drench facilities and/or eyewash fountains should be provided within
the immediate work area for emergency use where there is any possibility of
exposure to liquids that are extremely cold or rapidly evaporating.
Recommendations for respirator selection. Max concn for use: 100 ppm.
Respirator Class(es): Any powered, air-purifying respirator with cartridge(s)
providing protection against the compound of concern. Any air-purifying,
full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted
canister providing protection against the compound of concern. Any supplied-air
respirator. May require eye protection. Any self-contained breathing apparatus
with a full facepiece.
Recommendations for respirator selection. Condition: Emergency or planned
entry into unknown concn or IDLH conditions: Respirator Class(es): Any
self-contained breathing apparatus that has a full facepiece and is operated in
a pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode. Any supplied-air respirator
that has a full facepiece and is operated in a pressure-demand or other
positive-pressure mode in combination with an auxiliary self-contained breathing
apparatus operated in pressure-demand or other positive-pressure mode.
Recommendations for respirator selection. Condition: Escape from suddenly
occurring respiratory hazards: Respirator Class(es): Any air-purifying,
full-facepiece respirator (gas mask) with a chin-style, front- or back-mounted
canister providing protection against the compound of concern. Any appropriate
escape-type, self-contained breathing apparatus.
Preventive Measures:
Contact lenses should not be worn when working with this chemical.
SRP: The scientific literature for the use of contact lenses in industry is
conflicting. The benefit or detrimental effects of wearing contact lenses depend
not only upon the substance, but also on factors including the form of the
substance, characteristics and duration of the exposure, the uses of other eye
protection equipment, and the hygiene of the lenses. However, there may be
individual substances whose irritating or corrosive properties are such that the
wearing of contact lenses would be harmful to the eye. In those specific cases,
contact lenses should not be worn. In any event, the usual eye protection
equipment should be worn even when contact lenses are in place.
If material /is/ not on fire and not involved in fire: Keep sparks, flames,
and other sources of ignition away. Keep material out of water sources and
sewers. Attempt to stop leak if without undue personnel hazard. Use water spray
to knock down vapors.
Avoid breathing vapors. Keep upwind. ... Do not handle broken packages unless
wearing appropriate personal protective equipment. Wash away any material which
may have contacted the body with copious amounts of water or soap and water.
Approach fire with caution.
Evacuation: If material leaking (not on fire) consider evacuation of one half
(1/2) mile. Radius based on amount of material spilled, location and weather
conditions.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE SHOULD NEVER BE USED FROM CYLINDER WITHOUT REDUCING PRESSURE
THROUGH SUITABLE REGULATOR ATTACHED DIRECTLY TO CYLINDER.
Personnel using hydrogen sulfide should work in pairs. They should wear for
instantaneous use a gas mask with an all purpose canister or a light three
minute unit with a self contained air supply, which can be donned quickly before
evacuating the area. Operators should carry wet lead acetate paper (turns black
in the presence of minute amounts of hydrogen sulfide) on their wrists or belt
for detection of dangerous concentrations of gas. In addition, there should be
provided multipoint air samplers with alarms for plant production units to
constantly monitor the air in and around the units.
The following specific precautions should be observed: 1. Do not store
reserve stocks of hydrogen sulfide cylinders with cylinders containing oxygen or
other highly oxidizing or combustible materials. 2. Ground all lines and
equipment used with hydrogen sulfide. 3. Use check valves or traps to prevent
suckback into the cylinder. 4. Use a cylinder size which can be conveniently
emptied in a reasonably short amount of time. 5. Keep gas masks approved for
hydrogen sulfide service in an area not likely to be contaminated, ready for use
in case of emergency.
Hydrogen sulfide may readily cause pipes and valves to corrode or become
brittle, lines and fittings likely to contain hydrogen sulfide should be
inspected frequently and receive special attention, monitoring, and maintenance
to prevent leaks.
EARLY EVALUATION OF PROCESS PLANTS, SUCH AS THE CLAUS TYPE SRU (SULFUR
RECOVERY UNIT), IN THE DESIGN STAGE MINIMIZES WORKER EXPOSURE TO TOXIC
CHEMICALS. THE CLAUS TYPE SRU CONVERTS THE HYDROGEN SULFIDE IN REFINERY ACID GAS
INTO ELEMENTAL SULFUR. THE SRU HANDLES HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF HYDROGEN SULFIDE,
SULFUR DIOXIDE AND OTHER SULFUR COMPOUNDS.
SRP: Contaminated protective clothing should be segregated in such a manner
so that there is no direct personal contact by personnel who handle, dispose, or
clean the clothing. Quality assurance to ascertain the completeness of the
cleaning procedures should be implemented before the decontaminated protective
clothing is returned for reuse by the workers. Contaminated clothing should not
be taken home at end of shift, but should remain at employee's place of work for
cleaning.
Work clothing that becomes wet should be immediately removed due to its
flammability hazard.
Stability/Shelf Life:
WATER SOLN ARE NOT STABLE
Shipment Methods and Regulations:
No person may /transport,/ offer or accept a hazardous material for
transportation in commerce unless that person is registered in conformance ...
and the hazardous material is properly classed, described, packaged, marked,
labeled, and in condition for shipment as required or authorized by ... /the
hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 171-177)./
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods
Regulations are published by the IATA Dangerous Goods Board pursuant to IATA
Resolutions 618 and 619 and constitute a manual of industry carrier regulations
to be followed by all IATA Member airlines when transporting hazardous
materials.
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code lays down basic principles
for transporting hazardous chemicals. Detailed recommendations for individual
substances and a number of recommendations for good practice are included in the
classes dealing with such substances. A general index of technical names has
also been compiled. This index should always be consulted when attempting to
locate the appropriate procedures to be used when shipping any substance or
article.
Storage Conditions:
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location. Separate from oxidizing
materials.
Cleanup Methods:
1) REMOVE ALL IGNITION SOURCES. 2) VENTILATE AREA OF SPILL OR LEAK TO
DISPERSE GAS. 3) IF IN GASEOUS FORM, STOP FLOW OF GAS. IF SOURCE OF LEAK IS
CYLINDER & ... CANNOT BE STOPPED IN PLACE, REMOVE THE LEAKING CYLINDER TO A
SAFE PLACE IN THE OPEN AIR, & REPAIR THE LEAK OR ALLOW THE CYCLINDER TO
EMPTY. 4) IF IN LIQ FORM, ALLOW TO VAPORIZE.
METHODS FOR THE BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT OF ACID MINE DRAINAGE WERE EVALUATED.
HYDROGEN SULFIDE PRODUCED BY SULFATE REDUCTION CAN POTENTIALLY REACT WITH METALS
IN SOLUTION TO FORM METAL SULFIDE PRECIPITATES. THE UTILITY OF A PILOT PLANT
DESIGN INCORPORATING ANAEROBIC DIGESTION, SULFATE REDUCTION, AERATION AND FINAL
CLARIFICATION AND SETTLING WAS DEMONSTRATED.
Land spill: Dike surface flow using soil, sand bags, foamed polyurethane, or
foamed concrete. Absorb bulk liquid with fly ash or cement powder. Neutralize
with agricultural lime (CaO), crushed limestone (CaCO3) or sodium bicarbonate
(NaHCO3).
Water spill: Neutralize with agricultural lime (CaO), crushed limestone
(CaCO3), or sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3).
Air spill: Apply water spray or mist to knock down vapors. Vapor knockdown
water is corrosive or toxic and should be diked for containment.
Disposal Methods:
Generators of waste (equal to or greater than 100 kg/mo) containing this
contaminant, EPA hazardous waste number U135, must conform with USEPA
regulations in storage, transportation, treatment and disposal of waste.
A potential candidate for rotary kiln incineration at a temperature range of
820 to 1,600 deg C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and
hours for solids.
A potential candidate for fluidized bed incineration at a temperature range
of 450 to 980 deg C and residence times of seconds for liquids and gases, and
longer for solids.
Occupational Exposure Standards:
OSHA Standards:
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-2 Acceptable Ceiling Concentration: 20
ppm.
Permissible Exposure Limit: Table Z-2 Acceptable maximum peak above the
acceptable ceiling concentration for an 8-hour shift. Concentration: 50 ppm.
Maximum Duration: 10 minutes once, only if no other meas. exp. occurs.
Vacated 1989 OSHA PEL TWA 10 ppm (14 mg/cu m); STEL 15 ppm (21 mg/cu m) is
still enforced in some states.
Threshold Limit Values:
8 hr Time Weighted Avg (TWA): 10 ppm; 15 min Short Term Exposure Limit
(STEL): 15 ppm.
Notice of Intended Change for 2002: These substances, with their
corresponding values and notations, comprise those for which a limit has been
proposed for the first time or for which a change in the Adopted value is
proposed. In each case, the proposed values should be considered trial values
for the year following ratification by the ACGIH Board of Directors. If, during
the year, no evidence comes to light that questions the appropriateness of these
proposals, the values will be reconsidered for adoption as TLVs. 8 hr Time
Weighted Avg (TWA): 5 ppm.
NIOSH Recommendations:
Recommended Exposure Limit: 10 Min Ceiling Value: 10 ppm (15 mg/cu m).
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health:
100 ppm
Other Occupational Permissible Levels:
Emergency Response Planning Guidelines (ERPG): ERPG(1) 0.1 ppm (no more than
mild, transient effects) for up to 1 hr exposure; ERPG(2) 30 ppm (without
serious, adverse effects) for up to 1 hr exposure; ERPG(3) 100 ppm (not life
threatening) up to 1 hr exposure.
Manufacturing/Use Information:
Major Uses:
To produce elemental sulfur and sulfuric acid; in manuf of heavy water and
other chemicals; in metallurgy; as analytical reagent.
IN AGRICULTURE IT IS USED AS A DISINFECTANT
INT FOR SULFURIC ACID, ELEMENTAL SULFUR, SODIUM SULFIDE, OTHER INORGANIC
SULFIDES, ADDITIVES IN EXTREME PRESSURE LUBRICANTS & CUTTING OILS & INT
FOR ORGANIC SULFUR COMPD
Manufacturers:
Elf Atochem North America, Inc., Hq, 2000 Market Street, 21st Floor,
Philadelphia, PA 19103-3222, (215) 419-7000; Organic Chemicals Division;
Production site: 2231 Haden Road, Houston, TX 77015, (713) 455-1211.
Montana Sulphur and Chemical Co., P.O. Box 31118, Billings, MT 59107, (406)
252-9324.
Morton International, Inc., Hq, 100 N. Riverside Plaza, Randolph Street and
the River, Chicago, IL 60606-1598, (312) 807-2000; Adhesives and Chemical
Specialties; Production site: 5724 Elder Ferry Road, P.O. Box 666, Moss Point,
MS 39563.
Methods of Manufacturing:
PRODUCED BY REACTING DIL SULFURIC ACID WITH IRON SULFIDE, BY HEATING HYDROGEN
& SULFUR IN VAPOR PHASE, BY HEATING SULFUR WITH PARAFFIN.
Derivation: 1) By the action of dilute sulfuric acid on a sulfide, usually
iron sulfide; 2) by direct union of hydrogen and sulfur vapor at a definite
temperature and pressure; 3) as a by-product of petroleum refining.
Natural gas/synthesis gas/refinery gas/coke oven gas (solvent extraction);
hydrogen + sulfur (reaction); natural gas (Lacq distillation process); natural
gas + sulfur (reaction; by-product of carbon disulfide production); metallurgic
coke + sulfur (reaction; coproduced with carbon disulfide).
Formulations/Preparations:
Grades: Technical, 98.5%; purified, 99.5% min; CP
Consumption Patterns:
8.85X10+11 G AS AN INT FOR SULFURIC ACID (1966)
Laboratory Methods:
Analytic Laboratory Methods:
THE TRACOR MODEL 700A HALL ELECTROLYTIC CONDUCTIVITY DETECTOR (HECD) WAS
EVALUATED FOR ITS USE AS A SULFUR-SELECTIVE DETECTOR (FOR NATURAL GAS OR
PESTICIDE ANALYSIS). THE OVERALL MINIMUM SELECTIVITY FOUND WAS 5.5X10+3. THE
RESPONSE WAS LINEAR FOR 2-4 ORDERS OF MAGNITUDE AND THE DYNAMIC RANGE WAS 6
ORDERS OF MAGNITUDE. THE SENSITIVITY RANGED FROM 0.21-1.3 PG SULFUR/S FOR
DIFFERENT COMPOUNDS ON DIFFERENT DAYS.
NIOSH S296: DETECTED IN AIR BY GAS CHROMATOGRAPHY EQUIPPED WITH FLAME
PHOTOMETRIC DETECTOR IN SULFUR MODE; RANGE: 15-60 MG/CU M; PRECISION: 0.069.
DETECTED IN AIR BY SPECTROPHOTOMETRY AT 670 NM; SAMPLE PREPARATION:
ABSORPTION & REACTION WITH METHYLENE BLUE. RANGE 8.5 TO 63 MG/CU M;
PRECISION: 0.121.
PASSIVE COLORIMETRIC DOSIMETER TUBES FOR SUBSTANCES INCLUDING HYDROGEN
SULFIDE.
Qualitative hydrogen sulfide detection has been based on the blackening of
coins, keys, lead based paint, and paper moistened with lead acetate solution.
EPA Method 9030: Iodometric Method. The method is used to measure the
concentration of total and dissolved sulfides in drinking, surface, and saline
waters. The method does not measure acid-insoluble sulfides. Excess iodine is
added to a sample which has been treated with zinc acetate to produce zinc
sulfide. The excess iodine is back-titrated with sodium thiosulfate or
phenylarsine oxide. The precision of the end point varies with the sample. In
clean waters, it should be determined within 1 drop, which is equivalent to 0.1
mg/l in a 200 ml sample. /Total sulfide/
Method 427C: Methylene Blue Method. The procedure is applicable at sulfide
concn up to 20 mg/l. It is based on the reaction of sulfide, ferric chloride,
and dimethyl-p-phenylenediamine to produce methylene blue. Ammonium phosphate is
added after color development to remove ferric chlloride color. The accuracy is
about + or - 10%. The standard deviation has not been determined. /Total
sulfide/
OAQPS Method 15. Determination of Hydrogen Sulfide, Carbonyl Sulfide and
Carbon Disulfide Emissions from Stationary Sources, GCFPD, emissions from tail
gas control units or sulfur recovery plants.
Sampling Procedures:
NIOSH S296: Analyte: Sulfide; Matrix: Air; Procedure: Adsorption on molecular
sieve, thermal desorption GC-FPD.
ANALYTE: HYDROGEN SULFIDE; MATRIX: AIR; PROCEDURE: ABSORPTION-METHYLENE BLUE
SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC; /KEEP OUT OF LIGHT/.
Special References:
Special Reports:
WHO; Environ Health Criteria: Hydrogen Sulfide (1981)
USEPA; Health and Environmental Effects Profile for Hydrogen Sulfide (1980)
ECAO-CIN-118
NIOSH; Occupational Exposure to Hydrogen Sulfide (1977) DHEW (NIOSH)
Publication #77-158
Environment Canada; Tech Info for Problem Spills: Hydrogen Sulphide (Draft)
(1981)
USEPA; Health and Environmental Effects Profile for Hydrogen Sulfide (1986)
ECAO-CIN-026A
Nat'l Research Council Canada; Hydrogen Sulfide in the Atmospheric
Environment (1981) NRCC No. 18467
Guidotti TL; Occupat Med 46 (5): 367-71 (1996). The toxicological properties
of hydrogen sulfide are reviewed.
Synonyms and Identifiers:
Synonyms:
Acide sulphhydrique **PEER REVIEWED**
ACIDE SULFHYDRIQUE (FRENCH) **PEER REVIEWED**
DIHYDROGEN MONOSULFIDE **PEER REVIEWED**
DIHYDROGEN SULFIDE **PEER REVIEWED**
Hydrogene sulphure **PEER REVIEWED**
HYDROGEN SULFURE (FRENCH) **PEER REVIEWED**
HYDROGEN SULPHIDE **PEER REVIEWED**
HYDROSULFURIC ACID **PEER REVIEWED**
IDROGENO SOLFORATO (ITALIAN) **PEER REVIEWED**
SCHWEFELWASSERSTOFF (GERMAN) **PEER REVIEWED**
SEWER GAS **PEER REVIEWED**
SIARKOWODOR (POLISH) **PEER REVIEWED**
STINK DAMP **PEER REVIEWED**
SULFURETED HYDROGEN **PEER REVIEWED**
SULFUR HYDRIDE **PEER REVIEWED**
ZWAVELWATERSTOF (DUTCH) **PEER REVIEWED**
Formulations/Preparations:
Grades: Technical, 98.5%; purified, 99.5% min; CP
Shipping Name/ Number DOT/UN/NA/IMO:
UN 1053; Hydrogen sulfide
IMO 2.1; Hydrogen sulfide
Standard Transportation Number:
49 054 10; Hydrogen sulfide
EPA Hazardous Waste Number:
U135; A toxic waste when a discarded commercial chemical product or
manufacturing chemical intermediate or an off specification commercial chemical
product or manufacturing chemical intermediate.
RTECS Number:
NIOSH/MX1225000