Free Available Chlorine vs. Hypochlorite
What's the Difference?
Free Available Chlorine and Hypochlorite are both commonly used disinfectants in water treatment and sanitation processes. Free Available Chlorine refers to the amount of chlorine that is readily available to kill bacteria and other harmful microorganisms in water. Hypochlorite, on the other hand, is a chemical compound that releases chlorine when dissolved in water, making it an effective disinfectant. While Free Available Chlorine is a specific measurement of chlorine concentration, Hypochlorite is a broader term that encompasses various chlorine-containing compounds. Both are important in maintaining clean and safe water for drinking and recreational use.
Comparison
| Attribute | Free Available Chlorine | Hypochlorite |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Cl2 | ClO- |
| Form | Gaseous | Solid or liquid |
| Usage | Disinfectant | Bleaching agent |
| Stability | Less stable | More stable |
Further Detail
Introduction
Free Available Chlorine (FAC) and Hypochlorite are two common forms of chlorine used for disinfection purposes. Both are effective in killing bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms in water. However, there are differences in their attributes that make them suitable for different applications.
Chemical Composition
Free Available Chlorine refers to the amount of chlorine that is available to disinfect water. It can exist in various forms, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ion (OCl-). Hypochlorite, on the other hand, is a specific compound that contains chlorine in the form of hypochlorite ion. While both FAC and hypochlorite are effective disinfectants, their chemical compositions can affect their stability and reactivity.
Stability
One of the key differences between FAC and hypochlorite is their stability. Hypochlorite compounds are more stable than free available chlorine, especially in alkaline conditions. This makes hypochlorite a preferred choice for long-term disinfection in applications where the pH of the water is high. On the other hand, free available chlorine is more reactive and can be quickly consumed in the presence of organic matter or sunlight.
Effectiveness
Both FAC and hypochlorite are effective in killing bacteria and viruses in water. However, the effectiveness of each form of chlorine can vary depending on the pH of the water. Free available chlorine is more effective at lower pH levels, where it exists primarily as hypochlorous acid. In contrast, hypochlorite is more effective at higher pH levels, where it exists as the hypochlorite ion. Therefore, the choice between FAC and hypochlorite should consider the pH of the water being treated.
Application
Free Available Chlorine is commonly used in swimming pools and spas for disinfection due to its fast-acting nature. It can quickly kill bacteria and algae in the water, ensuring a safe swimming environment. Hypochlorite, on the other hand, is often used in municipal water treatment plants for long-term disinfection. Its stability in alkaline conditions makes it suitable for continuous disinfection of drinking water supplies.
Cost
When it comes to cost, hypochlorite is generally more cost-effective than free available chlorine. This is because hypochlorite compounds are easier to produce and store, making them a more economical choice for large-scale disinfection applications. Free available chlorine, on the other hand, may require more frequent dosing and monitoring, which can increase operational costs over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both Free Available Chlorine and Hypochlorite are effective disinfectants that can be used to kill bacteria and viruses in water. However, their chemical compositions, stability, effectiveness, application, and cost differ, making them suitable for different purposes. Understanding the attributes of each form of chlorine is essential for choosing the right disinfection method for a specific application.
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