What is the primary function of HOCl in water treatment?

HOCl, or hypochlorous acid, plays a crucial role in water treatment primarily for its properties as an oxidizing agent and a sanitizer. It is one of the most effective forms of chlorine used to disinfect water, effectively killing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and some protozoa, thus ensuring that the water is safe for human use.

In the context of water sanitation, HOCl is favored due to its high efficacy at lower concentrations, making it a powerful sanitizer while also being less irritating than other forms of chlorine. Additionally, it can react with organic matter to oxidize contaminants, contributing to overall water quality improvement.

Other functions, such as water softening, filtration enhancement, or pH stabilization, do not directly involve the primary characteristics of HOCl. Water softening typically involves the removal of calcium and magnesium ions, filtration enhancement refers to improving physical removal processes, and pH stabilization relates to keeping the water’s acidity or basicity levels steady. While HOCl can indirectly influence these areas, its primary function remains its role in oxidation and sanitization.