Sodium hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite (CAS 7681-52-9), commonly known as NaClO, bleach, or under trade names such as Clorox, Hyclorite, and B-Kliquid, is an inorganic chlorine-based oxidising agent supplied as an aqueous solution. It carries no E-code designation and is classified under the Oxidizers & Peroxides category.

In water treatment, sodium hypochlorite disinfects by releasing hypochlorous acid, which destroys microbial cell membranes at low concentrations. In textile and pulp processing, it oxidises chromophore bonds in fibres to achieve bleaching. Food-contact surface sanitation relies on its rapid biocidal action against bacteria, yeasts, and moulds at controlled pH.

Sodium hypochlorite is available in technical and industrial grades, typically as aqueous solutions ranging from 5% to 15% active chlorine. It is subject to REACH registration and relevant national biocidal product regulations under BPR (EU) 528/2012. Supply is available in IBC containers and bulk tanker formats.