Why is HOCl preferred in water sanitation?

HOCl, or hypochlorous acid, is preferred in water sanitation primarily because it effectively oxidizes and sanitizes. At a molecular level, HOCl is a powerful oxidizing agent that can effectively neutralize pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, which is essential for maintaining safe swimming pool and aquatic facility environments. It has a high efficacy in disinfecting water due to its ability to penetrate invading microorganisms and disrupt their cellular processes.

In addition to its sanitizing properties, HOCl is also more stable in the presence of organic matter compared to other chlorine forms. This stability means that it continues to work effectively even in conditions that might reduce the efficacy of other sanitizing agents. The combination of effective disinfection, the ability to operate under a variety of conditions, and a lower tendency to produce byproducts that cause irritation or negative sensory experiences (like strong odors) makes HOCl a preferred choice in water sanitation practices.