ABSTRACT
This chapter briefly discusses the application, chemical properties and physical properties of hydrogen sulfide. It presents detailed information on the air analysis of hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is formed when metal sulfides react with dilute mineral acids. It is colorless gas with rotten egg odor, slightly soluble in water, highly toxic and flammable. Hydrogen sulfide absorbs oxygen and decomposes to sulfur. Hydrogen sulfide exposure may be monitored by diffusion type colorimetric dosimeters. Dosage exposure of hydrogen sulfide is measured from the length of stain in the indicator tube. Hydrogen sulfide in the air may also be measured by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Method 6013. A measured volume of air is sampled using adsorbent tubes packed with coconut charcoal, and desorbed with ammonium hydroxide and hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen sulfide is converted into sulfate which is analyzed by ion chromatography. There may be positive interference, however, from the presence of sulfur dioxide in the air.
