Key Features

High strength calcium hypochlorite is a concentrated chlorine disinfectant and oxidizing agent widely used for water treatment, sanitation, and pathogen control. It typically contains a high level of available chlorine — often up to 65–70% or higher — that dissolves in water to release hypochlorous acid, a powerful antimicrobial species that kills bacteria, viruses, algae, and other harmful microorganisms. Its concentrated form enables rapid, efficient disinfection with smaller dosages compared to lower-strength alternatives, providing effective sanitation across diverse applications.

Chemical Composition & Properties

High strength calcium hypochlorite is chemically expressed as Ca(ClO)₂, appearing as white to off-white granular or powder form with a strong chlorine odor. When dissolved in water, it releases hypochlorous acid and hypochlorite ions — the active disinfecting agents — which exert strong oxidizing action to destroy cellular structures and metabolic functions of microbes. Its concentrated chlorine content makes it more potent and rapid-acting for demanding sanitation tasks.

Product Description

As a high-strength chlorine product, calcium hypochlorite delivers robust sanitation performance. Upon dissolution in water, active chlorine species penetrate microbial cell walls, oxidize organic contaminants, and inactivate pathogens. This broad-spectrum action helps maintain hygienic water quality and surface cleanliness, and the residual chlorine left in treated systems offers ongoing inhibition of microbial regrowth between treatments.

Applications in Water Treatment & Sanitation

High strength calcium hypochlorite is extensively used in municipal and emergency drinking water disinfection, ensuring safe potable water by eliminating harmful microorganisms. It is commonly applied for swimming pool sanitation and shock chlorination to control algae and bacteria, and in wastewater treatment to disinfect effluent before discharge. Beyond water, it’s used in industrial cleaning and surface disinfection, food processing sanitation, healthcare facilities, and livestock and agricultural water supply sanitation to maintain hygiene and safety.

Mechanism of Action

High strength calcium hypochlorite’s disinfecting action is based on its conversion to hypochlorous acid (HOCl) in water. Hypochlorous acid is a highly reactive oxidizing agent that disrupts microbial cell membranes, denatures proteins, and interferes with metabolic processes, leading to rapid inactivation of bacteria, viruses, and algae. The oxidation process also breaks down organic impurities, improving water clarity and overall quality.

Usage & Dosing Guidelines

Effective dosing of high strength calcium hypochlorite depends on the specific application and water volume. For routine pool maintenance, measured doses are added to maintain recommended free chlorine levels in parts per million (ppm). For shock disinfection or emergency water treatment, higher doses are used to quickly elevate disinfectant levels. Pre-dissolving the product in a separate container before addition helps ensure even distribution, and regular monitoring of chlorine residual and pH is recommended for optimal control.

Benefits

High strength calcium hypochlorite offers rapid and reliable disinfection with high antimicrobial potency due to its elevated chlorine content. Its strong oxidizing properties enable efficient elimination of pathogens and organic contaminants, while requiring less product for equivalent results compared to lower-strength chlorine sources, making it cost-effective for large-scale water treatment. Many formulations also have good stability and shelf life when stored properly under cool, dry conditions.

Safety Considerations

Handling high strength calcium hypochlorite should always involve appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, eye protection, and masks to prevent irritation or chemical exposure, especially due to its strong oxidizing nature. It should never be mixed with acids, ammonia, or incompatible chemicals as this can cause dangerous reactions or release toxic gases. Ensure good ventilation when working with the powder or granules.

Storage Instructions

Store high strength calcium hypochlorite in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct heat, moisture, and sunlight to preserve available chlorine and prevent decomposition. Keep the product tightly sealed and separate from combustible materials, acids, and reducing agents to avoid hazardous reactions. Regularly inspect storage conditions to maintain long-term product effectiveness and safety for future use.