Calcium hypochlorite
Description
Calcium hypochlorite (CAS 7778-54-3), also known as bleaching powder, is a high-active chlorine compound used as a disinfectant, oxidizer, and bleaching agent across municipal, industrial, and food processing operations.
It delivers rapid microbial kill and oxidative action at relatively low application concentrations. This makes it a cost-effective alternative to liquid chlorine for many facilities requiring reliable sanitation.
In water treatment, it is dosed into municipal drinking water systems, swimming pools, and wastewater facilities. These applications help achieve reliable disinfection and consistent algae control in various environments.
Food processing plants use it to sanitize surfaces, equipment, and produce wash water in compliance with food safety protocols. This ensures that microbial levels remain within safe limits during production.
Textile and paper manufacturers apply it to bleach natural fibers and pulp. This process achieves consistent whiteness without the handling complexity often associated with gaseous chlorine systems.
Personal care and household cleaning product formulators incorporate it into disinfecting powders and hard-surface cleaners. It is preferred where sustained chlorine release is required for long-term efficacy.
Calcium hypochlorite is supplied as granules, tablets, and powder, with active chlorine content typically ranging from 65% to 70%. Food-grade and technical-grade designations are standard across the market.
Tablet forms are common for pool and water treatment applications due to controlled dissolution rates. These formats allow for precise dosing and easier handling in industrial and commercial settings.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 100 °C |
| Density | 2.35 g/cm³ |
| Appearance | Calcium hypochlorite is a white powder, granule, or pellets with a strong chlorine-like odor. |
| Color | White to off-white or faint green |
| Odor | Chlorine-like odor |
| Form | Tablets |
| Water Solubility | 200 g/L (20 ºC) (dec.) |
| Refractive Index | 1.545 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 28281000 |
| UN Number | 1748 |
| ADR Class | 5.1 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Storage Class | 5.1A - Strongly oxidizing hazardous materials |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Documentation
Other Names
Calcium hypochloride|Hypochlorous acid, calcium salt|Bleaching powder|Losantin|Pittchlor|Pittcide|Pittclor|Caporit
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