Hydrogen sulfide concentrations in indoor air of thermal springs

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.