Water with high sulphide levels is generated by a
number of industrial facilities such as petrochemical
plants, tanneries, viscose rayon manufacturers and
study and pulp plants (Janssen et al., 1999; Rinzema et
al. 1988; Brimblecombe and Lein, 1989). It has also
been reported that H2S is produced in hot water tanks
(ADOA, 2007). This is a result of the inclusion of an
anti-corrosion precaution. Often a magnesium based
rod is included to act as a sacrificial anode to prevent
corrosion. When oxidized, this material releases a
greater amount of electrons than is needed to protect the
exposed steel from corrosion. The excess electrons
provide an energy source for sulphate reducing bacteria
present in the water leading to the production of H2S.