Calcium Hypochlorite (Ca(OCl)₂) Properties and Industrial Applications

Calcium hypochlorite (Ca(OCl)₂), CAS number 7778-54-3, is an inorganic chlorine-based compound widely used as a disinfectant and oxidizing agent. Commonly supplied in granular or powder form, it is used in swimming pool sanitation, drinking water treatment, industrial water disinfection, and selected bleaching applications. As a strong oxidizer, calcium hypochlorite requires appropriate storage, handling, and safety precautions. Explore its technical characteristics, industrial applications, environmental considerations, and packaging options for chemical supply and water treatment operations.

Calcium hypochlorite is a chemical compound with the chemical formula Ca(OCl)₂. This chemical is known as a strong bleach and disinfectant and is used in various industries as well as in household applications.

This compound is not soluble in hard water and is mostly used in soft and medium water. Perchlorine is available in two types of powder and granules.

Calcium hypochlorite is usually produced by the reaction of chlorine with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂).

Technical Characteristics

Chemical Formula	Ca (OCl)2
Other names	Hypochlorous acid calcium salt bleaching powder chloride of lime Perchlorine
CAS Number	7778-54-3
Melting point	100 °C
Molecular mass	142 g/mol
Appearance	White/grey powder

Applications         

• Strong disinfectant in water purification and swimming pools
• Bleaching agent in textile and paper industry
• Food industry as a disinfectant and preserver of food quality
• A source of chlorine in the production of other chemical compounds and chemical reactions
• Production of some cleaning products and household disinfectants

Environmental impact of Calcium hypochlorite

If discharged into natural waters, calcium hypochlorite can harm aquatic ecosystems. Therefore, its use and discharge should be done with caution.

Safety Measures and Regulations for Handling Calcium hypochlorite

Calcium hypochlorite can be considered as a dangerous chemical. Contact with skin or eyes can cause irritation and burns. Inhalation of dust or its vapor can cause respiratory irritation. Calcium hypochlorite should be stored in a dry, well ventilated area at a temperature below 120ºF (50ºC) separated from acids, ammonia, amines, and other chlorinating or oxidizing agents.

Packing

This chemical is available in 25 kg bags or barrels.