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Overview
Hydrosulfuric acid (H2S), also known as hydrogen sulfide gas, is highly toxic, even in small concentrations. The gas is colorless, but like all sulfur compounds it possesses the classic rotten-egg odor. Due to its signature odor, it is often referred to as "sewer gas" and "stink damp." Hydrogen sulfide gas is a strong oxidizer, reacting with many metals, such as iron, steel, copper and brass. The chemical is also quickly converted into sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid when exposed to the atmosphere, resulting in acid rain. Hydrogen sulfide gas occurs naturally in the environment and is also produced by many human activities.
Sources
Naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide gas is found in crude oil, natural gas, volcanic gases and hot springs. The gas is also produced by some bacteria during the breakdown of organic material, such as in marshes and swamps. Industrial sources include food processing, coke ovens, paper manufacturing, tanneries, sewage treatment plants, concentrated animal feed operations and petroleum refineries. Natural gas contains as much as 28 percent hydrogen sulfide. For this reason, the purification of natural gas and refinement of crude oil represent the largest sources of man-made hydrogen sulfide gas.
Health Effects
Initially, hydrogen sulfide gas targets and irritates the body's soft tissues, such as the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. This produces burning, reddening and fluid secretions. While the pungent smell of the gas provides an early warning sign for those exposed to the gas, high concentrations quickly deaden the sense of smell. Continued exposure can lead to asthma attacks, respiratory distress, unconsciousness and death. In most cases, there are no long-term consequences for exposure to the chemical following recovery. However, recurring headaches, poor attention span, poor memory and poor motor function can persist in some individuals long after an exposure.
Volcanic Effects
Hydrogen sulfide gas is heavier than air, meaning it can settle in low-lying areas around volcanoes and accumulate to high levels. This can lead to injury or death for animals and humans. For example, at least 149 people died from exposure to poisonous volcanic gases, most likely carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, during the 1979 eruptions near the volcanic complex at the Dieng Plateau, located in Java, Indonesia. Furthermore, when injected into the atmosphere, sulfur aerosols such as hydrogen sulfide can lower global surface temperatures by reflecting solar energy back into space, and destroy ozone. This occurred during the eruption of Mount Pinatubo on June 15, 1991.