Decomposition of Sodium Hypochlorite (On-Line Tool )
Light, heat, organic matter, and certain heavy metals (such as copper, nickel, and cobalt) accelerate the rate of decomposition of sodium hypochlorite. The presence of transition metal ions (copper and nickel) is known to catalyze the decomposition of liquid sodium hypochlorite, contributing to the loss of sodium hypochlorite strength and the formation of oxygen. Loss of sodium hypochlorite strength means more product will be needed when the sodium hypochlorite is used as a disinfectant.
Oxygen build-up can pose problems when storing sodium hypochlorite in storage containers or bleach transport piping due to pressure build-up. By removing suspended solids to nearly undetectable levels from the sodium hypochlorite solution, the rate of decomposition is significantly reduced. In addition, the formation of oxygen is nearly eliminated, resulting in significantly reduces the rate of decomposition and nearly eliminates the formation of oxygen.
All bleach decomposition is dependant on temperature. For any given temperature, the higher the strength, the faster it decomposes. In summary, for every 10o C increase in storage temperature, the sodium hypochlorite will decompose at an increased rate factor of approximately 3.5.
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