The extremely flammable gas forms an explosive mixture with air. You can recognise it by the typical smell of rotten eggs. This penetrating note is produced by the decomposition of sulphurous amino acids in the proteins. Although even small amounts are perceptible, it is absolutely not advisable to smell it. This is because the effect of the highly toxic gas can be roughly compared to the effect of prussic acid. In addition, although the odour threshold is 0.15 milligrams per cubic metre, a gradual dulling can take place.
Occurrence & health effects of hydrogen sulphide (H₂S)
In nature, hydrogen sulphide occurs, for example, in crude oil and natural gas. In addition, the gas is formed during decay or decomposition processes - i.e. during biomass decomposition. Therefore, elevated H₂S levels are also measured at landfills, sewage treatment plants and slurry pits or in the sewage system.
In higher concentrations, the gas has a lethal effect within a few seconds. But even in smaller quantities, hydrogen sulphide impairs well-being.
Symptoms of hydrogen sulphide poisoning:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs up to shortness of breath.
- Memory and concentration deficits
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
You can find more information on how H₂S is formed and what limits exist in our article.
Monitoring hydrogen sulphide with the new air-Q sensor
Our new electrochemical hydrogen sulphide sensor measures the H₂S values in your rooms with high accuracy and sensitivity. If limit values are exceeded, the air meter reliably warns you via the LED traffic light technology on the device itself. You will also receive warnings and recommendations for action in the air-Q app and the web app.
Applications for the hydrogen sulphide sensor
With the air-Q sensor, you can detect the following situations at an early stage and gain time to act as well as avert consequences.
- Gas leak & impending gas explosion in heating systems
- Leaking pipes in the sanitary area
- Decomposition processes of animals
- Rotting, organic material: for example in seals, building materials or waste
- Concomitant symptoms of mould
By measuring the humidity and hydrogen sulphide in the air, the air-Q can detect air conditions that are conducive to mould. By checking the readings, you can prevent mould from forming in your home.
You already own an air-Q and want to retrofit the sensor for hydrogen sulphide? No problem, the sensor is suitable for all air-Q models except air-Q Light and can also be retrofitted. To do this, use the additional slots in your air-measuring device. Our video shows you how to integrate an additional sensor in just a few steps:
You can find our new sensor in our shop.
(Contributing photo: air-Q)
