Sulphur dioxide in air

Abstract

It is the purpose of this dissertation to give a clear picture regarding sulphur dioxide present in the Maltese atmosphere. The principal producer of S02 was identified as the Marsa power station plant. The effects of S02 on the environment and human health are described. The chemistry of 802 is also discussed since it tends to act in a synergistic manner with e.g. particulates so as to produce undesirable effects such as 'acid rain' and corrosion of buildings. The abatement methods discussed take into account that Malta is a block of limestone surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. Thus the sulphur/sulphur dioxide abatement methods discussed use seawater and/or limestone. Utilization of waste products is also considered. Chapter four deals with the actual field study and illustrates the procedures and precautions, with some minor modifications, as recommended by A.S.T.M. The results are discussed in the light of the Gaussian plume model theory, which explains discrepancies between 802 levels at the same sampling site on the basis of atmospheric conditions. It is shown that with the 'right' conditions, S02 levels may be unacceptably high for the Hamrun/Marsa/Paola area.