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Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Gas Detectors

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless, extremely toxic gas with a strong odor. Common applications of sulfur dioxide include sulfuric acid production, pulp and paper mills, chemical processing, food and beverage operations, and petroleum refineries. Because coal and petroleum often contain sulfur compounds, their combustion will generate SO2 unless sulfur compounds are removed before burning the fuel.

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Characteristics of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is a colorless gas with a characteristic, irritating, pungent odor. Sulfur dioxide is released when compounds containing sulfur, such as fossil fuels like coal are burned.

Sulfur dioxide is a highly toxic gas which poisons its victims via inhalation through the lungs. SO2 combines with water to form sulfuric acid (H2SO4). It is for this reason that sulfur dioxide can burn the respiratory tract upon inhalation. High doses of SO2 can cause death quite rapidly.

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SULFUR DIOXIDE - SO2

Hazard:
Flammable
Will not explode
Classification:
Health
Extremely toxic, Oxidizing agent
Synonyms:
Sulfurous acid anhydride, sulfurous oxide, and sulfur oxide
Exposure limits:
(OSHA)
PEL\TWA: 5 ppm
(ACGIH)
STEL: 0.25 ppm/ 15 min
(OSHA)
IDLH: 100 ppm / 30 min
Industries:
Pulp and paper mills and coal-fired generating stations

Effects of Various SO2 Levels

SO2 Level in PPM
Resulting Conditions on Humans
.3-1
Sulfur Dioxide initially detected by taste.
3
Odor becomes easily detected.
5
Permissible Exposure Level (OSHA).
6-12
Irritation of the nose and throat.
20
Irritation of the eyes.
50-100
Maximum exposure for a 30 minute period.
400-500
Dangerous concentration can cause edema of the lungs and glottis and death from prolonged exposure.

How to Detect Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)

 To keep workers safe from sulfur dioxide (SO2) exposure—and other hazardous gases that may be present—Industrial Scientific offers a wide range of portable gas detectors, such as the Tango® TX1 and GasBadge® Pro single-gas detectors, the Ventis® Pro5, Ventis® MX4, and MX6 iBrid® multi-gas detectors, and the Radius® BZ1 Area Monitor.

Area Monitor

Radius BZ1

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Multi-Gas Monitor

Ventis Pro5

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Multi-Gas Monitor

Ventis MX4

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Multi-Gas Monitor

MX6 iBrid

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Single-Gas Monitor

GasBadge Pro

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Single-Gas Monitor

Tango TX1

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)?

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) is a colorless gas with a pungent, irritating odor. It’s produced by burning fossil fuels and in various industrial processes, including metal smelting and the manufacturing of sulfuric acid. 

Why is Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) detection important?

Detecting SO2 is vital for ensuring air quality and worker safety. SO2 can cause severe respiratory issues and environmental harm. Early detection helps prevent overexposure and ensures compliance with safety regulations. 

What are the health effects of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) exposure?

Exposure to SO2 can cause respiratory problems like coughing, shortness of breath, and aggravation of asthma. High concentrations can lead to severe lung damage and respiratory failure. 

How do you detect Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)?

SO2 is detected using gas detection instruments such as portable, personal gas detectors and area monitors. These tools provide real-time monitoring to ensure safety and regulatory compliance in industrial environments. Industrial Scientific offers a range of SO2 detectors, including both monitors and gas detection software. 

Need help deciding which sulfur dioxide (SO2) gas detector best fits your application?

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