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CAS7783-06-4
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Structural formula
H₂S
Remove hydrogen sulphide from exhaust air
What is hydrogen sulphide?
Hydrogen sulphide is a colourless gas with the chemical formula H₂S, known for its characteristic smell of rotten eggs. It is mainly produced by the decomposition of organic matter under oxygen-free conditions. In industry, it is used in the production of sulphur and sulphuric acid. Hydrogen sulphide is highly toxic and flammable, which makes its handling and control particularly important.
Creation
Hydrogen sulphide is produced in numerous industrial processes, including the processing of crude oil and natural gas, the manufacture of chemicals and in sewage treatment plants. It is also released by biological decomposition processes in swamps, fermentation vats and other oxygen-poor environments.
Recognition
Hydrogen sulphide has an unmistakable odour of rotten eggs, which is perceptible even at very low concentrations. It is colourless and heavier than air. It can cause irritation on contact with the skin and inhalation of hydrogen sulphide can cause headaches, nausea and shortness of breath. High concentrations can lead to unconsciousness and death.
Limit values
In Germany, the limit values for hydrogen sulphide are regulated by the Technical Instructions on Air Quality Control (TA-Luft) and the occupational exposure limit values (AGW). The OEL for hydrogen sulphide is 5 ppm (parts per million) or 7 mg/m³. These limit values are intended to ensure that the concentrations in the workplace do not cause any damage to health.
Hazards
Health: Even at low concentrations, hydrogen sulphide can irritate the eyes and respiratory tract. At higher concentrations, inhalation leads to severe respiratory tract irritation, coughing, dizziness and nausea. Extremely high concentrations can paralyse the central nervous system and cause respiratory arrest, which can quickly become life-threatening. Environment: Hydrogen sulphide can damage the environment by being released into the atmosphere and contributing to the formation of acid rain. In aquatic systems, it can be toxic to fish and other aquatic life. Economic damage: Improper handling and release of hydrogen sulphide can cause considerable costs due to necessary safety measures and claims for damages. In addition, production losses and increased employee sickness rates can significantly impair the economic efficiency of a company.
The oxytec Purification Technology
For many organic pollutants, we offer energy-saving and clean technologies for neutralisation, which we combine in multi-stage plants. In order to achieve a reduction below the limit values, not only the dimensioning of the respective purification stage but also the sequence of the technologies is decisive, as they have different physical effects on the molecules. Below we present some of our purification modules.
CWA
Alternative technologies
Other technologies such as conventional activated carbon filters and simple ventilation systems often have disadvantages such as high energy consumption, limited cleaning performance, large space requirements, long lead times and high investment costs.
Advantages of the oxytec solution
- Compact design: Small footprint compared to traditional systems.
- Fast amortisation: Thanks to low operating costs and high efficiency.
- Environmentally friendly: Minimal environmental impact thanks to innovative technologies
- Efficient hydrogen sulphide reduction: High purification levels with minimal energy consumption