All articles tagged with #sulfur dioxide
New research links long-term exposure to sulfur dioxide from fossil fuel combustion to an increased risk of developing ALS, highlighting the potential health impacts of air pollution from mining and energy production, though causation has not been established.
A Canadian study links higher exposure to sulfur dioxide, a pollutant from fossil fuel combustion, with an increased risk of developing ALS, highlighting the need for stricter air quality regulations despite current guidelines.
A boiler failure at the Delaware City Refinery has led to the release of hazardous chemicals, including sulfur dioxide, which poses health risks to nearby communities and workers. The release, described as 'extremely hazardous,' is ongoing until repairs are completed, raising concerns about environmental and public health impacts.
A research team led by Gavin Sacks, Ph.D. and Julie Goddard, Ph.D., has identified the culprit behind the occasional rotten egg smell in canned wine as the interaction between molecular sulfur dioxide (SO2) and the aluminum, resulting in the production of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). The team found that maintaining 0.4 ppm of SO2 in wine and using epoxy liners could ensure low formation of hydrogen sulfide during long-term can storage. They are now working on designing more robust liners using food-grade materials to prevent corrosion and tackling the issue of sour beer.
Iceland's Reykjanes peninsula is experiencing its fourth volcanic eruption since December, with the latest eruption producing a nearly 2-mile-long fissure and spewing lava. The eruption's sulfur dioxide emissions are expected to reach as far as Russia, impacting air quality across northern Europe. However, experts believe that the emissions are not severe enough to significantly impact surface air quality or climate at this time.
A study has linked the rapid increase in Legionnaires' disease cases in the US to cleaner air, specifically the decrease in sulfur dioxide (SO2) levels. Researchers found that lower SO2 levels led to less acidic water droplets, potentially allowing Legionella bacteria to survive longer in the air and infect people. The study highlights the need to understand how changing environmental conditions impact Legionella proliferation and to protect vulnerable populations living near industrial or densely populated areas from this newfound risk of Legionnaires' disease.
A shelter-in-place was lifted in Texas City after a chemical release of sulfur dioxide occurred at the Marathon Galveston Bay Refinery. The release was due to operational issues in one of the refinery's units. No medical issues were reported, and the affected roads and areas have since been reopened. Residents were advised to shelter in place by minimizing airflow in their homes and sealing windows and doors. Symptoms of chemical exposure include skin irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath.
A train derailed in eastern Kentucky, causing a chemical spill and prompting the evacuation of residents in the small town of Livingston. The derailment involved at least 16 cars, with two cars containing sulfur catching fire and releasing sulfur dioxide gas into the air. One crew member was treated for minor injuries. CSX, the railroad operator, is conducting air quality testing and covering the cost of hotel rooms for affected residents. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency to allocate more resources to the response. The extent of the spill and its environmental impact are still unknown. Sulfur dioxide exposure can cause respiratory issues, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Iceland has experienced another 800 earthquakes since midnight, following the detection of sulfur dioxide gas, indicating that magma is near the surface. The earthquakes are occurring in a magma dyke at a depth of two to three miles, with signs of deformation and ongoing magma flow. The likelihood of a volcanic eruption remains high, and the most probable location would be the magma dyke. Iceland is under a state of emergency, with thousands of residents evacuated from the earthquake-affected area.