Materials
Sulfur dioxide emissions may affect building
stone and ferrous and nonferrous metals. Sulfurous
acid, formed from the reaction of sulfur dioxide
with moisture, accelerates the corrosion of
iron, steel, and zinc. Sulfur oxides react with copper
to produce the green patina of copper sulfate
on the surface of the copper. Acids in the form of
gases, aerosols, or precipitation may chemically
erode building materials such as marble, limestone,
and dolomite. Of particular concern is the
chemical erosion of historical monuments and
works of art. Sulfurous and sulfuric acids formed
from sulfur dioxide and sulfur trioxide when they
react with moisture may also damage paper and
leather.