chlorammineT

Chloramine T is a disinfectant belonging to the class of chloramine compounds. It is formulated as a quaternary ammonium salt that contains a chlorine atom bound to an amine group. The substance is moderately soluble in water and releases chlorine slowly, which contributes to its persistent germicidal activity.

The most common preparation is a solid or powder that can be dissolved to produce a liquid solution. The chemical formula is typically written as (CH3)3NCl·HCl·NH3 or as a complex salt with a halide ion. Chloramine T is stable at room temperature but degrades upon prolonged exposure to heat or light. In solution, it acts as a source of hypochlorous acid‑like radicals that damage microbial cell membranes and inactivate viruses and bacteria.

Its primary application is in water treatment. Municipal utilities use Chloramine T to disinfect drinking water because the residual chlorine it provides is less corrosive to distribution pipes and produces fewer disinfection by‑products compared with free chlorine. Chloramine T is also employed in swimming‑pool sanitation, in the textile and paper industries, and as a cleaning agent for certain metal surfaces where a controlled chlorine release is advantageous.

Safety data indicate that Chloramine T is corrosive to skin and eyes and may cause respiratory irritation when inhaled in dust form. Concentrated solutions are hazardous and should be handled with protective gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation. Environmental monitoring shows that it degrades relatively quickly in natural waters, though it can form chlorinated organic by‑products under certain conditions.

Industrial production of Chloramine T is carried out by a small number of specialty chemical manufacturers, and the product is distributed to municipal water authorities, commercial cleaners, and laboratories.