Hydrogen sulfide concentrations in indoor air of thermal springs

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to assess hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) concentrations in the pool indoor air of hot springs and its link to some physicochemical properties of the springs in Ardabil province. Twenty-two hot springs from different regions were selected and monitored for H₂S concentrations using a portable gas meter. Respective mean concentrations of H₂S in hot springs indoor air were 9.11 ± 11. Ghotour Souei hot springs had the highest concentration of H₂S with a mean concentration of 29.4 ± 7.7 and 25.2 ± 8.16 ppm at the source and general pool areas, respectively. Oxidation-reduction potential and pH of the water were the most important factor influencing H₂S concentrations in the hot springs. H₂S concentrations in indoor air of Ardabil hot springs were noticeably higher than OEL-TWA and OEL-STEL, and therefore may pose important risks for human health on both short-and long-term exposures.

KEYWORDS:

• hot springs
• hydrogen sulfide
• indoor air
• Ardabil

Acknowledgment

The authors would like to acknowledge Ardabil University of Medical Sciences for financial and instrumental supports.

Funding

The authors acknowledge financial support of Ardabil University of Medical Sciences for this work (no. 9401).