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Sodium Hypochlorite Bleach Decomposition & Sodium Chlorate Formation Calculator
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 and the higher the level of oxygen
and chlorate formation. In summary, for every 10° C increase in storage temperature,
the sodium hypochlorite will decompose at an increased rate factor of approximately
3.5.
To view the rate of decomposition of Sodium Hypochlorite and the formation of Oxygen
and Chlorate at varying strengths and temperature, select a starting weight percent
and temperature:
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