TOTAL REDUCED SULPHUR COMPOUNDS

Total reduced sulphur compounds (TRS) produce offensive odours similar to rotten eggs or cabbage. TRS is a gaseous mixture of compounds consisting mainly of hydrogen sulphide (H2S), methyl mercaptan (CH₃S-H), dimethyl sulphide (CH3-S-CH3) and dimethyl disulphide (CH₃-S-S-CH₃).

Sources

Industrial sources of TRS include the steel industry, pulp and paper mills, refineries and sewage treatment facilities. Natural sources include swamps, bogs and marshes.

Effects on health and the environment

TRS compounds are not normally considered a health hazard, although each component has its own characteristics and effects. The most commonly reported health concerns related to TRS substances are nausea and headaches.  TSR are, however, a primary cause of odours.

Once released into the atmosphere, oxidation products of TRS compounds, such as sulphuric acid, contribute to the acidity of the environmen