Whitedamp

Whitedamp is a noxious mixture of gases formed by the combustion of coal, usually in an enclosed environment such as a coal mine. The main, most toxic constituent is carbon monoxide,[1] which causes carbon monoxide poisoning. Hydrogen sulfide, also called stinkdamp, may co-occur. Coal frequently starts to burn slowly in mines when it is exposed to the atmosphere; partial combustion produces carbon monoxide.

The word damp is used as in similar mining terms, such as black damp, fire damp, stink damp, and afterdamp.

Detection

Traditionally, whitedamp (specifically carbon monoxide) was detected by its effect on canaries, who succumb much more quickly than humans. However, there are now gas detectors available; these detect toxic gases at very low levels. The levels of gas detection depend on the gas and methods used. Carbon monoxide detectors are common in homes.

References
  1. "Definition of WHITE DAMP". www.merriam-webster.com.
  • JS Haldane and JG Priestley, Respiration, Oxford University Press, 2nd Ed (1935)


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