How is sodium hypochlorite used in bleach and water treatment?

Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) is an unstable compound produced through the electrolysis of aqueous sodium chloride. It serves as a powerful agent in both household and industrial settings due to its chemical properties.

Bleaching and Disinfection

In household applications, sodium hypochlorite is the primary active ingredient in chlorine bleach. Beyond domestic use, it functions as an industrial bleach for textiles and paper pulp, and it is utilized in certain medicinal preparations as an antiseptic and fungicide.1

Water Treatment

In the context of water supply systems, sodium hypochlorite is used for chlorination, a process essential for disinfecting drinking water. While gaseous chlorine is often more economical for large-scale operations, liquid sodium hypochlorite is a common alternative for applying chlorine to water supplies. It helps ensure water safety by maintaining a residual concentration throughout distribution systems, effectively neutralizing pathogens.2