Shift of the H2S paradigm

The scientific problem of the development of ideas about the possibilities of using the process of toxic H2S conversion into demanded chemicals - hydrogen and elemental sulfur is considered. Until recently, all solutions to the very urgent problem of H2S utilization were based on the paradigm of the generally accepted concepts of decomposition of a molecule of this substance within the framework of 'classical' equilibrium thermodynamics using external energy sources, but no acceptable solution to this problem has yet been found. In this regard, a new paradigm of H2S decomposition is proposed, which is based on the non-equilibrium thermodynamics of an irreversible process in an open system. The concept of the decisive role of solid catalysts in the reaction of low-temperature decomposition of H2S makes it possible to solve not only the problem of efficient utilization of H2S, but also opens new pages in the chemistry of this substance as both a source of atomic hydrogen and an energy supplier for activation of the chemically inert molecules. Therefore, 'useless' H2S acquires the status of a 'useful' chemical that will be probably in demand to solve problems which could not be carried out within the framework of the previous paradigm.