Calcium Hypochlorite
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Purity: >70% | Color: White |
| Ph: 10.4-10.8 (1% Aq. solution) | Appearance: Granular Solids |
| Formula: Ca(OCL)2 | Grade Standard: Industrial Grade |
| CAS No: 7778-54-3 | HS Code: 28281090 |
Packaging: Material Available in the form of granular solid packed in 45Kgs HDPE DRUMS.
Description of Calcium Hypochlorite:
Chemical Composition and Properties
Calcium hypochlorite (Ca(ClO)₂) is an inorganic compound primarily known for its strong oxidizing properties. It is a white or grayish-white granular solid or powder with a slight chlorine odor, highly soluble in water, and decomposes slowly in air, releasing chlorine gas. It is often marketed in two primary forms: dry powder and tablets, with the powder typically containing around 70% available chlorine by weight.
Uses and Applications
1. Water Treatment: Calcium hypochlorite is extensively used as a disinfectant for drinking water and swimming pools. It is favored for its effectiveness in killing bacteria, algae, fungi, and other microorganisms, ensuring the safety and hygiene of water.
2. Sanitation and Disinfection: In addition to water treatment, it is employed in various sanitation processes, including sewage treatment, industrial waste treatment, and surface disinfection. Its strong oxidizing properties make it ideal for controlling microbial contamination.
3. Bleaching Agent: It is used in the paper and textile industries as a bleaching agent due to its ability to oxidize and remove color from organic substances.
4. Agriculture: Occasionally used in agriculture to disinfect soil and control algae and bacteria in irrigation systems.
Handling and Safety
Calcium hypochlorite is a reactive chemical and should be handled with care. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and inhalation of its dust can be harmful. It should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from organic materials, acids, and metals, to prevent hazardous reactions. Protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and masks are recommended during its handling to avoid exposure.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Highly effective and fast-acting disinfectant.
- Stable in storage compared to other chlorine-based disinfectants.
- Provides a high concentration of available chlorine, making it cost-effective for large-scale use.
Disadvantages:
- Handling risks due to its corrosive nature and potential to release chlorine gas.
- Can form hazardous by-products, such as chloramines, when reacting with organic materials.
- Requires careful storage to prevent decomposition and maintain its efficacy.
Environmental Impact
When used properly, calcium hypochlorite can be a safe and effective disinfectant. However, improper use or overuse can lead to the release of toxic chlorine gas and harmful chlorinated by-products, posing risks to both human health and the environment. Thus, adherence to recommended usage guidelines and safety protocols is crucial.
In summary, calcium hypochlorite is a versatile and powerful chemical widely used for disinfection and sanitation across various industries. Its effectiveness, however, comes with the responsibility of careful handling and adherence to safety measures to mitigate its potential hazards.