What is Sodium Hypochlorite or Bleach?

Sodium Hypochlorite or Bleach (Sodium hypochlorite) is a chemical compound with the formula NaClO, and its commercial form is commonly known as a whitening liquid or "Whitex." This substance has numerous applications in disinfection, whitening, and deodorization.

The aqueous solution of Sodium Hypochlorite used as a disinfectant or whitener is referred to as bleach.

Types of Sodium Hypochlorite

Bleach is available in the market with the following concentrations:

- Household Bleach (with a concentration of 5%)

- Industrial Bleach (with a concentration of 10% or higher), also known as industrial bleach.

Industrial Bleach

Bleach is an unstable and decomposable whitening agent based on chlorine, formed by a sodium cation (Na) and a hypochlorite anion (ClO).

Industrial Bleach Applications

Sodium Hypochlorite is primarily used as a disinfectant to combat viruses, bacteria, fungi, and mycobacteria. Other applications of industrial bleach include:

- Whitening textile fibers

- In the paper industry

- As a disinfectant for swimming pools

- As a disinfectant for water reservoirs

- In hospitals as a disinfectant

- In laboratories as a disinfectant

- As a whitener for paper and linen fabrics

- As an antifungal and antimicrobial agent

- In household cleaning

- Eliminating odors from sewage and dairy factories

- As a surface whitener to remove stains on tiles and ceramics

- As a detoxifying agent in the industry

- In dentistry

- In pharmaceutical, agricultural, chemical, glass, and paper industries

- In beverages