Hydrogen sulfide is a highly toxic gas and must be used with extreme caution

On September 24, a sewer gas leak occurred in Yan Village, Golmud City, Haixi Prefecture, Qinghai Province, killing 6 people and causing concern. On October 15, the reporter learned from the Golmud Emergency Management Bureau that experts tested the sewer pipes and air in Yanqiao Village and nearby areas and confirmed that the toxic gas was hydrogen sulfide.

After verification, the toxic and harmful gas escaped through the sewer pipes of residents, causing a total of 7 casualties in 2 households. People at the scene said it smelled like rotten eggs and was very strong.

Public information shows that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a colorless, highly toxic acidic gas. It is the simplest type of sulfur hydride and belongs to an inorganic compound. It has no obvious odor at high concentrations and has a sulfur smell at low concentrations. It is a by-product of many industrial processes, such as natural gas refining, petroleum refining, wastewater treatment and papermaking industries. It is also produced in nature through the decomposition of organic matter and the metabolic activities of certain microorganisms.

The density of hydrogen sulfide is slightly greater than that of air, and it can gather in low-lying areas to form potential dangerous areas. It is toxic to humans at low concentrations, and inhaling high concentrations of hydrogen sulfide can quickly kill people. Hydrogen sulfide is irritating to the eyes, respiratory system, and nervous system. Exposure to low concentrations may cause eye irritation, headaches, coughing, and breathing difficulties.

Hydrogen sulfide is soluble in water and is also easily soluble in alcohols and petroleum solvents. In addition, hydrogen sulfide can form explosive mixtures with air, which can cause combustion or even explosion when exposed to open flames or high heat.