Sodium hypochlorite – NaOCl is one of the most common disinfectants. It occurs in liquid form as an aqueous solution and is strongly alkaline (pH 11.5 - 12.5). Commercial sodium hypochlorite (12-15% Cl) is obtained in chemical plants by saturating a sodium hydroxide solution with chlorine gas. Before dosing, it is diluted from the commercial form to a solution of lower concentration.
The advantage of sodium hypochlorite is its relatively low purchase cost and a very simple dosing system, the disadvantage is the short stability period. Depending on the quality, sodium hypochlorite loses its disinfection ability with time, increased sunlight and increased temperature. These factors limit the storage capacity of sodium hypochlorite, which is why the method of producing sodium hypochlorite at the dosing point is becoming increasingly popular.
Sodium hypochlorite can be produced by electrolysis of brine solution. For this purpose it is necessary use of a generator, access to running water and electricity, and periodic replenishment of salt supplies. The electrolysis process produces sodium hypochlorite with a concentration of up to 25 g Cl/l and hydrogen gas, which as a by-product is diluted with atmospheric air and blown outside the facility.
Application of sodium hypochlorite
disinfection of drinking water (destruction of microorganisms, radicals, viruses and fungi, prevention of legionella, removal of biofilms, prevention of algae formation);
water disinfection in the food industry;
disinfection of cooling and circulating water (chemical and paper industry, refineries, combined heat and power plants, heating plants, cooling towers);