On the alkaline emanations from sewers and cesspools. / by William Odling.

  • Odling, William, 1829-1921.
Date:
1870
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: On the alkaline emanations from sewers and cesspools. / by William Odling. Source: Wellcome Collection.

Provider: This material has been provided by Royal College of Physicians, London. The original may be consulted at Royal College of Physicians, London.

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    ON THE ALKALINE EMANATIONS FROM SEWERS AND CESSPOOLS. By WILLIAM ODLINC, M.B., E.C.S. C- It seems that, of all atmospheric impurities, the emanations from decomposing excreta are most prejudicial to public health. The recondite chemical nature of these emanations is quite unknown. Hydro-sulphuric acid and sulphide of ammonium certainly exist, though I believe to a less extent than usually supposed, for I have not unfrequently met with specimens of sewer water which produced no sensible dis- coloration of lead paper. Moreover, if these sulphur com- pounds existed in much larger amount, we know that their toxic powers are incapable of effecting the morbid results observed. At the suggestion of Mr. Simon, I have made a few pre- liminary experiments on the nature of sewer and cesspool exhalations. The liquid contents of a cesspool, situated in Cross Street, Stockwell, were first examined. The construction of this cesspool is peculiar. It had been originally a shallow well, but latterly has served as a more perfect diverticulum for the excreta of the neighbourhood, by means of drain-pipes com- municating with the surrounding houses. After subsidence, a portion of the tolerably clear liquid was evaporated to