Sulfur dioxide - SO2
Sulfur dioxide - SO2
This page brings together the main information on sulfur dioxide or " sulfur dioxide " (SO2), its physical characteristics, its effects on health, the means of detecting it ( SO2 gas detector ) as well as the appropriate respiratory protection (gas mask or assisted ventilation device with type E anti-gas filter).
Main characteristics of sulfur dioxide (SO2)
Sulfur dioxide (SO2), also called " sulfurous anhydride ", is a gas present in many sectors of activity such as pulp mills, thermal power plants, the refrigeration industry and following the combustion of fossil fuels (coal and fuel). It is also used at different stages of winemaking (sulfiting). It is a mainly anthropogenic gas (due to human activity) although it is found naturally near volcanoes.
Health effects of sulfur dioxide
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless gas, identifiable by its pungent odor and very irritating to the mucous membranes (respiratory tract and eyes) from 1 ppm! Although corrosive and harmful , it is above all a toxic gas classified R23 and R34, i.e. toxic by inhalation and responsible for burns. Finally, it is very reactive with many solvents (alcohol, toluene), but especially with water to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4), SO2 is also the primary factor in acid rain.
SO2 (Sulfur Dioxide) Gas Detector
Despite its pungent and irritating odor, only a SO2 gas detector can accurately measure the concentrations of this highly toxic gas, so we will move towards detecting sulfur dioxide in ppm, or even ppb.
For the calibration and gas testing of your fixed or portable gas detectors, sulfur dioxide standard gas cylinders are available.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) respiratory protection
Chlorine dioxide is irritating to the eyes, so a full-face mask is recommended for short-term interventions or a more comfortable assisted ventilation device with type E gas filters. If concentrations exceed 60 times the OEL, an isolating breathing apparatus will be essential.