Chloride of lime

Chloride of Lime also known as Calcium hypochlorite is a chemical compound with the formula Ca(ClO)2. It is widely used for water treatment and as a bleaching agent (bleaching powder). This compound is relatively stable and has greater available chlorine than sodium hypochlorite (liquid bleach).

History

Chloride of Lime was first discovered in 1798 by the Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele. He obtained it by reacting chlorine with slaked lime (calcium hydroxide). The compound was then popularized for use in disinfection and sanitation by an Englishman, Charles Tennant, in the early 19th century.

Production

Chloride of Lime is produced industrially by treating lime (Ca(OH)2) with chlorine gas. The reaction can be conducted in stages to give various products with different levels of hydration, including dihydrate (Ca(ClO)2·2H2O) and monohydrate (Ca(ClO)2·H2O).

Uses

Chloride of Lime is primarily used as a bleaching agent for paper pulp. It is also used in the disinfection of drinking water, swimming pools, and in kitchens and bathrooms. In addition, it is used in the treatment of waste water, to control and remove microorganisms, and in the food industry to disinfect food contact surfaces.

Safety

Chloride of Lime is a strong oxidizer, which means it can cause organic materials to combust if they come into contact with it. It is also corrosive to metals and can cause burns if it comes into contact with skin or eyes. Proper safety measures should be taken when handling this chemical.

See Also

• Bleaching powder
• Calcium hydroxide
• Chlorine
• Sodium hypochlorite