Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium Hypochlorite is typically found as a pale greenish-yellow liquid in aqueous solution with a strong chlorine-like smell. It’s highly soluble in water. An Alkaline, with a pH usually between 11 and 13. It decomposes over time, especially when exposed to light, heat, or acids, releasing chlorine gas.

Common uses of Sodium Hypochlorite:

• Used in hospitals, households, and industries for disinfecting surfaces and water.
• Commonly found in household bleach.
• Used for sterilising medical equipment.
• Added to drinking water and swimming pools to kill bacteria, viruses and algae.
• Used in wastewater treatment to neutralise contaminants.
• Employed as a bleaching agent for fabrics and paper products.
• Acts as a precursor in chemical synthesis and oxidation reactions.
• Used in food processing to sanitise equipment and wash fruits & vegetables (in controlled concentrations).
• Eliminates unpleasant odours by breaking down odour-causing compounds.
• Used for disinfecting irrigation water and farming equipment.

Precautions:

• Can cause skin and eye irritation.
• Should not be mixed with acids or ammonia, as it releases toxic chlorine gas.