Sodium Hypochlorite is an inorganic chloride with the formula NaOCl. It is also known as ‘bleach’ and has pungent odor. Let us find out more about the uses of Sodium Hypochlorite.
NaOCl, the sodium salt of hypochlorous acid is used in industries mentioned below:
- In water purification
- In surface disinfectant
- In sterilization
- In textile bleaching
- In odor removal
- In paper production
- In glass industry
- In agriculture industry
- In chemical industry
- In paint industry
- In food industry
NaOCl is noticed to be useful in the daily lives of most people. It is a very popular disinfectant and antimicrobial agent and is used widely. In this article, we will be discussing all the uses in various industries.
In water purification
- Sodium hypochlorite is used for processing of pumped water into drinking water.
- Bleaching powder is used for decontamination of Cyanobacteria in water.
- Dilute bleach solution is also used for removal of fecal matter from water.
Surface Disinfectant
Sodium Hypochlorite is widely used as a surface disinfectant in households and for manholes and also to open drains on roads.
In Sterilization
For sterilization of various materials in the lab and for sterilization in plumbing Sodium Hypochlorite is used .
In textile bleaching
Sodium Hypochlorite is used for decolourisation of previously coloured fabrics.
In odor removal
- NaOCl is used for odor removal of feces and microbial growth.
- Bleaching powder odor is used to eliminate mosquitos in certain areas.
In paper production
For degrading colour of wood pulp to manufacture white coloured paper Sodium hypochlorite is used as an agent.
In glass industry
- Bleach is used in the glass industry to produce H2 and Cl2 gas.
- Sodium Hypochlorite is used for preparation of soda ash, which is a basic raw material for manufacture of glass.
In agriculture industry
- NaOCl is used for improvising seeds before planting them in soil, as this reduces the risk of bacterial growth in them.
- Bleaching powder or Sodium Hypochlorite is known for increasing growth of jute plant.
In chemical industry
- In many chemical industries Sodium Hypochlorite is used as a strong oxidizing agent.
- Sodium Hypochlorite is used to liberate chlorine gas.
In paint industry
For production of pigments in the paint industry Sodium Hypochlorite is used as a raw material.
In food industry
- NaOCl is used in bakeries and dairy products as an agent to lighten food colour.
- For production of edible oils Bleach or Sodium Hypochlorite is used.
Conclusion
Sodium Hypochlorite or bleaching powder is a very useful substance. It is water soluble and toxic to human-kind. It is known for it’s various uses and is an integral part of every household.
Hi, I am Aparajita Bose. I am a Chemistry postgraduate currently working with Micro Labs Advanced Research Centre as a Research Associate. I am passionate about my subject and am excited to educate my readers with precise knowledge. I also want to make the subject fun and easily accessible!
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