Calcium Hypochlorite

Used generally for treatment of water, as well as a bleaching agent, the chemical compound Calcium hypochlorite, is believed to be moderately stable besides having larger obtainable chlorine over sodium hypochlorite. The chemical is yellow white granule, pellet, or powder with potent chlorine-like smell, and is not very water soluble, which is the why if possible, should be utilized in water that is soft to middle hard.

The chemical responds with carbon dioxide, forming calcium carbonate, and then releasing chlorine. It also responds with hydrochloric acid and forms calcium chloride. Calcium hypochlorite has two types, hydrated form and dry form. Hydrated form of calcium hypochlorite is much safer to handle.

The most common use of calcium hypochlorite is for disinfecting water in swimming pools or drinking water. It can also be used as a sanitizer when combined with cyanuric acid stabilizer for outdoor pools. The stabilizer reduces the chlorine loss due to UV radiation. Bleaching powder (calcium hypochlorite) is used for cotton and linen bleaching, as well as utilized in chloroform manufacturing.

This chemical is non-flammable although it functions as an oxidizer having flammable components which may respond explosively with organic sulfides, amines, or ammonia. Storing the product is very important and it should be kept in a well ventilated, dry area with temperatures under 120°F, and away from acids, amines, ammonia, and chlorinating or oxidizing agents.

The hazards of calcium hypochlorite affect a person through inhalation, skin/eye contact, and ingestion. Inhalation through hypochlorite solutions that release poisonous gases like chlorine can infuriate the throat and nose, as well as lung irritation that can cause shortness of breath and/or coughing; increased exposures can cause fluid build-up in the lungs with severe breath shortness.

Direct contact with the chemical can severely burn and irritate the skin and eyes which leads to ulceration and cell death. Children are much susceptible to toxicants that affect the skin as they have comparatively bigger surface area in weight ratio. Ingestion of this chemical solution causes corrosive injury and vomiting to gastrointestinal tract.

Long-term health effects of calcium hypochlorite exposure which may occur after some time and can last for months to years include cancer risks, reproductive risks, and other long term effects such as bronchitis with cough, shortness of breath, and phlegm.

Calcium hypochlorite is a strong chemical that has its own important function and uses. However, cautious care should be taken when handling this chemical to avoid injuries and health risks.