Sodium Hypochlorite Solution

Sodium Hypochlorite (NaOCl) is a compound that can be effectively used for water purification. It is used on a large scale for surface purification, bleaching, odor removal and water disinfection.

What are the characteristics of sodium hypochlorite?

Sodium Hypochlorite is a clear, slightly yellowish solution with a characteristic odor. Sodium hypochlorite has a relative density of is 1,1(5,5% watery solution). As a bleaching agent for domestic use it usually contains 5% sodium hypochlorite  (with a pH of around 11, it is irritating). If it is more concentrated, it contains a concentration 10-15% sodium hypochlorite (with a pH of around 13, it burns and  is  corrosive). Sodium hypochlorite is unstable. Chlorine evaporates at a rate of 0.75 gram active chlorine per day from the solution. Then heated Sodium hypochlorite disintegrates, This also happens when Sodium hypochlorite comes in contact with acids, sunlight, certain metals and poisonous and corrosive gasses, including chlorine gas. Sodium hypochlorite is a strong oxidator and reacts with flammable compounds and reductors. Sodium hypochlorite solution is a weak base that is inflammable. These characteristics must be kept in mind during transport, storage and use of Sodium hypochlorite.

Sodium hypochlorite Advantages

Disinfection with Sodium hypochlorite has similar disinfectant efficiency and residual performance as chlorine gas, but reduces the hazards associated with the handling and storing of gas especially if generated on site. with on-site production, NaOcl solutions are less concentrated and less hazardous (typically a 1% concentration) than the standard supplied solution (14% concentration). As with chlorine gas, it is relatively cheap and can economically disinfect small to large amounts of water. If kept sealed, shelf life is not a factor. It can  be easily stored for 1-2 months.