A custom, low-cost, continuous flow chamber built for experimental Sargassum seaweed decomposition and exposure of small rodents to generated gaseous products

Since 2011, Sargassum events have increased in frequency along the Caribbean and Atlantic coasts. The accumulation and decomposition of large amounts of Sargassum seaweed on beaches pose socio-economic, ecological, and health risks due to the emission of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), methane, and ammonia. However, limited research exists on the emission processes and the health effects of subchronic and chronic exposure to low levels of H2S. Additionally, the absence of emission factor data for Sargassum decomposition on-site makes health risk assessments challenging. This study aimed to create a custom chamber to simulate real-world Sargassum decomposition, exposing experimental animals to the generated gases. Metal content was analyzed, and emission rates were estimated in a controlled environment. The decomposition-exposure system replicated reported environmental gas emissions from the Caribbean region, except for NH3. H2S bursts were observed during the decomposition process at intervals of 2–10 days, with higher frequency associated with larger masses of decomposing Sargassum. The decomposed gas was transferred to the exposure chamber, resulting in an 80–87% reduction in H2S concentration. The maximum H2S emission was 156 ppm, with a concentration ranging from 50.4 to 56.5 ppm. An estimated emission rate of 7–8 g/h for H2S was observed, and significant levels of lead, arsenic, and aluminum were found in beached Sargassum from the northeast coast of Brazil. This study's developed model provides an opportunity to investigate the effects and risks to human health associated with exposure to gases produced during the environmental decomposition of Sargassum seaweed. •Sargassum elemental composition includes significant levels of lead, aluminum and arsenic.•Experimental exposure to H2S produced by decomposition of beached Sargassum.•H2S emission rate for decomposition of beached Sargassum is 7–8 g/h.