Kokonaisjäännöskloori

Kokonaisjäännöskloori refers to the total amount of all chlorine species present in a water sample that are in a combined form, rather than being free and readily reactive. This includes both inorganic and organic chlorinated compounds. In water treatment, it is important to distinguish between free residual chlorine, which is an active disinfectant, and total residual chlorine, which includes both free chlorine and its reaction products.

Total residual chlorine is often measured to assess the effectiveness of chlorination processes and to ensure that the water is adequately disinfected. However, it also accounts for combined chlorine, such as chloramines, which are formed when free chlorine reacts with ammonia or organic nitrogen compounds. Chloramines are less reactive as disinfectants than free chlorine but can be more persistent, providing a longer-lasting residual in distribution systems.

The measurement of total residual chlorine is a standard practice in water quality monitoring. High levels of total residual chlorine can indicate over-chlorination or the presence of significant amounts of combined chlorine. In some cases, it can also be an indicator of the formation of disinfection byproducts, which are a concern for public health. Understanding the difference between free and total residual chlorine helps in optimizing water treatment processes and managing water quality.