sodiumhüperkloriit

Sodium hypochlorite is a chemical compound with the formula NaClO. It is a salt of sodium cation (Na+) and hypochlorite anion (ClO-). In its pure form, it is a pale yellow solid, but it is typically encountered in aqueous solution, commonly known as liquid bleach.

The most common use of sodium hypochlorite is as a disinfectant and bleaching agent. Its oxidizing properties are responsible for its effectiveness in killing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This makes it a valuable component in household cleaning products, industrial disinfectants, and water treatment processes. In households, it is used for sanitizing surfaces, laundry, and swimming pools. Industrially, it is employed in the pulp and paper industry for bleaching wood pulp and in the textile industry for bleaching fabrics.

Sodium hypochlorite is produced industrially through the electrolysis of a sodium chloride solution. This process, known as the chloralkali process, yields sodium hydroxide, chlorine gas, and hydrogen gas. Chlorine gas is then reacted with sodium hydroxide to produce sodium hypochlorite.

It is important to handle sodium hypochlorite with care. Concentrated solutions can be corrosive and irritating to skin, eyes, and respiratory passages. It should never be mixed with acids, as this can release toxic chlorine gas. When stored, it should be kept in a cool, dark place, as it degrades over time, especially when exposed to light and heat, losing its effectiveness.