Hypochlor® is a unique, long lasting chlorine tablet compound based on calcium hypochlorite. It is a safe, concentrated source of chlorine and has a wider range of potential applications than other chlorine or organic based sanitizers due to its inherent chemical characteristics. To understand why Hypochlor® is so versatile, it is necessary to consider the advantages of calcium hypochlorite over other chlorinating compounds.
Calcium Hypochlorite as Active Chlorine Sanitizer
Thus far, calcium hypochlorite has not found widespread application as a general sanitizer other than for swimming pool sanitization. This may be attributed to the fact that, even though it releases large quantities of hypochlorous acid as sanitizing agent, calcium hypochlorite has a relatively high solubility and has proven to be fickle when used to maintain a controlled dosing regime in water systems. Once calcium hypochlorite has been added to water, the remaining calcium usually forms calcium hydroxide (slaked lime). Although calcium is a coordinating element with wide physiological action, such as holding together the integrity of the cell walls of plants and forming the basis of the skeletal structure in animals, the low water solubility of calcium hydroxide may result in the formation of problematic sediment if it is applied indiscriminately. This affects the pH of the water, which might negatively affect the level of available chlorine. Hypochlor® overcomes all of these impediments by virtue of its unique formulation that enhances the integrity of the raw material. Its performance improves even further when it is dispensed via Buccaneer Water Industries’ patented Klorman™ or Buccaneer™ cartridge dispenser systems.
Rather that chlorine-to-water contact, the advanced design of our dispensing systems provide for water-to-chlorine contact. The result is limited access and contact time between water flow and the chlorine. The potentially negative chemical imbalances affecting hypochlorous acid availability, pH, as well as calcium hydroxide formation are thus negated, resulting in the creation of a stable and consistent chlorine sanitizer stream at pH levels between 7-8 (depending upon system pH).
THE ADVANTAGES OF HYPOCHLOR® OVER LIQUID CHLORINE BLEACH
Hypochlor® is a more efficient sanitizer than liquid chlorine. In solution, a far greater percentage of its available chlorine content is released as hypochlorous acid (HOCl) in solution under operational conditions. Liquid chlorine has a propensity to release a greater percentage its available chlorine content in the form of either hypochlorite ion (¯OCl), or monochloramine (NH2Cl). The table below illustrates the differences in efficacy between of HOCl, -OCl and monochloramine for a varied sample of organisms.
Table1: 1 ounce of bleach to 1 gallon with water (1:127), the pH of the solution is 10.25! 1/2 cup of bleach to 1 gallon with water (1:32), the pH of the solution is 11.00! AT THOSE pH LEVELS, THERE IS NO HYPOCHLOROUS ACID AVAILABLE FOR GERM KILLING!Calcium hypochlorite in solution is stable over a wider pH range than its sodium bleach counterpart. The high solubility of sodium gives it a propensity to readily elevate pH levels.
The calcium salt released by Hypochlor® is non-corrosive, even to aluminum, with which it forms an amalgam. The strong ionic character of liquid chlorine may accelerate galvanic and chloride corrosion of pipe work and equipment, and may necessitate the use of special metals in the production process. In addition, liquid bleach attacks and weakens substances such as glass, porcelain and aluminum.
Calcium hypochlorite based chlorine does not saponify fat, and can readily be applied at levels above 50 to even 100 ppm in food or environmental hygiene applications. Liquid chlorine releases caustic soda, which saponifies fat and results in slippery floors and work areas.
© Klorman Systems 2005