Evaluation of sulfide emissions from a hydraulic system at the Blue River Dam

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide releases occurred during a routine maintenance process in a hydraulic oil system at Blue River Dam, Oregon. The project worked under the hypothesis that the sulfide emissions most likely resulted from reductive biological processes. Hydraulic oil samples were collected from the Blue River Dam, and from two other nearby dams with similar hydraulic systems, Hills Creek Dam, and Cougar Dam. Water samples from the reservoir were also collected. Sulfur was found in all the oil and water samples, however, no patterns with sulfur to other parameters (such as percent water or acid neutralization number) were found in the oil samples. A microscopic review of hydraulic filters did not show any evidence of biofilm accumulation. The use of sulfate reductive bacterial genetic probes did not find any microbial activity expected to form sulfide. These results rejected the hypothesis that the sulfide production was from microbial activity. The Authors now hypothesize that the sulfide reaction was from abiotic reactions of an additive, Zinc Dialkyldithiophosphate (ZDDP). DISCLAIMER:The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents. DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN NO LONGER NEEDED. DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR.

Evaluation of water quality/environmental management surveys on USACE managed reservoirs and waterways

“…In addition, their operation is affected by water supply, water quality, and fish and wildlife concerns. The Blue River, Cougar, and Hills Creek Dams in Oregon are, on the other hand, primarily flood control dams, although both Cougar and Hills Creek do have hydropower production as well (Medina et al 2018A).…”