Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl): A Safe "Disinfectant"?

This article aims to provide an insightful overview of HOCl, emphasizing its safety, and efficacy. It covers its historical background, chemical properties, and various applications, dispelling common misconceptions and highlighting its importance in current hygiene practices.

Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) has gained recognition as a versatile and effective disinfectant, used in various applications ranging from medical treatments to air purification. Its unique properties and historical significance make it an essential component in contemporary hygiene and health practices.

Discovery and Historical Significance:

• HOCl was discovered in the 19th century and quickly became a vital tool in medical and sanitation practices.
• Its use during World War I for wound disinfection and ambient disinfection early highlighted its potent antimicrobial properties.
• Michael Faraday's development of electrolysis laws in the 1830s laid the foundation for producing HOCl.

> Did you know? As far back as 1891, an article in The Electrical Engineer journal discussed the importance of pure air on ships, utilizing electricity to generate (HOCl) gas for disinfection. This innovative approach from the past mirrors Biosavety's modern commitment to indoor air quality. Just as good lighting was vital for comfort, we understand that pure air is essential for health and safety, a principle that remains unchanged over a century later.

Chemical Properties:

• It's produced through the electrolysis of Salt (sodium chloride, NaCl) and water.
• HOCl is a weak acid with the molecular formula HOCl (Or HClO), appearing as a colorless solution with a weak chlorine-like smell.
• The purest HOCl is found at a pH-value of about 5.5, while it is unstable.

Different Names and Misconceptions:

• HOCl is also known as electrolyzed water or free chlorine (e.g. in the regulatory environment) in certain contexts.
• It's crucial to distinguish HOCl from similar compounds like sodium hypochlorite (bleach), hypochlorite ions (OCl-), and chlorine gas (Cl2), as each has different uses and safety profiles.

Applications in Air Purification:

• In air purification, HOCl is used for its efficacy against pathogens, while offering a safe and non-toxic way to maintain clean indoor air continuously.
• Unlike all other biocides, HOCl does not leave harmful residues or emit noxious fumes, making it ideal for use in enclosed spaces.

Medical and Skincare Applications:

• HOCl is used in medical settings, including in nasal sprays and mouthwashes, to combat and prevent infections, especially in relation to SARS-CoV-2.
• It's also applied in skincare treatments for conditions like acne and eczema and has shown excellent results in chronic wound care.

Environmental and Human Safety:

• Its application in surface and food disinfection highlights its safety, as it does not even require rinsing off.
• HOCl is appreciated for its gentle properties, posing no risk to humans, animals, and the environment.
• HOCl falls under biocide regulations; for instance, in the European Union, HOCl is regulated alongside hazardous chemicals, including chlorine gas. The permissible exposure level in the air is capped at 0.5mg/m3, which is one-third of the exposure levels considered safe by other countries for continuous exposure. Fortunately, HOCl demonstrates significant efficacy at concentrations as low as 2-8% of this legal limit, achieving a deactivation rate for E. coli of 30-90% per minute.

Conclusion: HOCl stands out as a multi-faceted disinfectant, effective against a wide range of microorganisms without producing resistances and is safe for various applications. Its historical background, unique chemical properties, and broad applicability underscore its significance in modern sanitation and healthcare.

If you want to learn more about HOCl Properties, we recommend reading this article.

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