Sodium hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite Description

Sodium hypochlorite is a clear, slightly yellowish solution with a characteristic odor.

Sodium hypochlorite has a relative density of 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 of 10-15% sodium hypochlorite (with a pH of around 13, it burns and is corrosive).

Calcium hypochlorite is a white solid that readily decomposes in water releasing oxygen and chlorine. 0,75-gram active chlorine per day from the solution. Then heated sodium hypochlorite disintegrates. This also happens when hypochlorite comes in contact with acids, sunlight, certain metals, and poisonous and corrosive gasses, including chlorine gas. hypochlorite is a strong oxidator and reacts with flammable compounds and reductors. hypochlorite solution is a weak base that is inflammable.

Toxicity is dependent on concentration, route, and duration of exposure. Availability in the household is attributed to frequent exposures. Toxic effects vary from mild irritation to significant tissue damage. Most unintentional exposures result in minor irritation. Intentional ingestions can cause significant burns or strictures of the gastrointestinal tract. Dermal and ocular exposures can cause irritation and corrosive injuries. Sodium hypochlorite combined with an acid or ammonia forms chlorine and chloramine gases, which cause upper respiratory irritation to chemical pneumonitis.

Sodium hypochlorite History

traces its origins to the late 18th century. It was initially synthesized by Claude Louis Berthollet in 1789 as a solution of potassium hypochlorite, commonly known as “Eau de Javel.” This discovery marked a significant advancement in textile bleaching.

Subsequently, Antoine Labarraque refined the process by substituting potash with soda, resulting in the creation of sodium hypochlorite. Recognized for its potent disinfectant properties, it gained widespread application in various sectors, including healthcare, water treatment, and food processing.

From its humble beginnings as a bleaching agent, sodium hypochlorite has evolved into an indispensable chemical with a broad spectrum of uses, solidifying its position as a cornerstone in numerous industries and households worldwide.

Sodium hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite Uses

Chlorine bleach is primarily known as a laundry cleaning and disinfecting product that destroys germs and helps make white clothes whiter. Bleach also has a wide range of other applications

Safe water

Before chlorine-based disinfectants like hypochlorite solutions were routinely added to U.S. drinking water beginning over 100 years ago, many people became sick and died of waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid fever. Chlorination destroys most waterborne germs to help keep drinking water safe. During emergencies, when the normal drinking water supply is interrupted or contaminated, chlorine bleach can safely disinfect non-potable water. Chlorine bleach also helps keep swimming pools free of waterborne germs that can cause diarrhea, swimmer’s ear, and “hot tub rash.”

Safe food production and preparation

Chlorine bleach added to water can destroy germs associated with raw foods. These solutions also can disinfect food production equipment, food preparation surfaces, and food-transportation containers. Grocery stores and restaurants use bleach solutions to help sanitize food storage and preparation surfaces.

Sodium hypochlorite Medical uses

Chlorine bleach solutions help disinfect many types of surfaces, including reusable equipment in hospitals, medical labs, doctors’ offices, and nursing homes, to help prevent the spread of infectious illnesses among patients, residents, and healthcare professionals.

Household disinfection

Consumers can use diluted chlorine bleach solutions to help disinfect household surfaces in bathrooms and the kitchen. Using bleach solutions to disinfect frequently touched surfaces also can help prevent the spread of colds, flu, norovirus, and other infectious illnesses. During natural disasters, such as flooding, chlorine bleach can disinfect contaminated surfaces.

Dosage of Sodium Hypochlorite

Potable water typically requires 15mls per m³

Pools and Spas typically require 30 to 50mls/m3

Grey water typically requires 40 to 100mls/m³

Sodium hypochlorite Packaging

 

Sodium hypochlorite is available in tankers and IBC tanks – drums. Other packaging may be considered on request.

Storage and handling

In applications requiring small packaging, sodium hypochlorite solution should be stored and shipped in suitable plastic containers. Storage stability is greatly affected by light, heat, pH, and the presence of certain heavy metal cations. Colored or opaque plastic bottles will increase stability.

The temperature of any storage or shipping area should not exceed 29° C (85° F); preferably, it should stay below 24° C (75° F). Avoid contamination of these solutions with heavy metal cations such as nickel or cobalt and keep the solution pH above 11.5.

hypochlorite solution is a strong oxidizer and can be a moderate fire hazard because of chemical reactions with reducing agents. It is particularly dangerous when heated, or comes into contact with an acid or acid fumes because it can emit toxic chlorine fumes.

Sodium hypochlorite Specification

General

CAS No.7681-52-9
Invent Hazard Material (IMO/EU) classificationC-50

Physical properties

AppearanceGreen/yellow liquid
Available Chlorine10 to 15%
Density [g/ml]1.16 to 1.17
Freezing Point [°C]-15 to -18 C
OdorChlorine

 

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