Assessment of Hydrogen Sulfide Dispersion from Dumpsite Using AERMOD Modeling System

Abstract:

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) isclassified as toxic gases that are commonly known to be generated from an anaerobic process, volcanic explosion and petroleum related processes. Low concentration of H₂S causes irritation on human eyes and respiratory system as well as nuisance problem due to its rotten-egg smell. Insanitary dumpsite of municipal wastes containing high organic fraction could be a source of H₂S emission, which affects the quality of life of nearby communities. This study assessed the H₂S dispersion from dumpsite in Nakhon Si Thammarat using the source dispersion model, AERMOD. Emission rate of H₂S generated at dumpsite was estimated using emission factor of 1.76 mg.m^-2.d^-1 taken from AP-42 (USEPA.). For meteorological data, hourly average data in 2012 were collected from three meteorological stations which were Nakhon Si Thammarat, Surat Thani and Trang Provinces. Meteorological data were primarily utilized from Nakhon Si Thammarat. Only missing values were filled by the data from Surat Thani and Trang, respectively. Results revealed that maximum concentrations of H₂S in 2012 were 0.595, 0.066 and 0.058 ppb, respectively for 1 hour average (1^st highest), 24 hour average (1^st highest) and annual average over the study area of 10 km x 10 km surrounding the source. Maximum concentration of H₂S emitted from dumpsite was mainly confined within 1.5 km surrounding the sources, particularly to the east and northeast area. The simulated concentrations of H₂S did not exceed the suggested standard values; however, the 1^st highest hourly average concentration was reached the odor threshold (0.5 ppb). To clarify the simulated H₂S concentrations, further works should be included the field sampling of H₂S at dumpsite to obtain the actual emission rate. Meteorological data in several years should be also used to provide the concrete pattern of H₂S dispersion.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volumes 931-932)
• Pages: 650-654
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/www.scientific.net/AMR.931-932.650
• Online since: May 2014
• Authors: Thongchai Kanabkaew*, Nirattisai Rakmak, Sukonta Choosaeng
• Keywords: AERMOD, Dumpsite, Hydrogen Sulfide, Landfill Site, Odor

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