Chlorine

Common chlorine substances

Sodium hypochlorite NaOCl

Available in solution. The most common used for treatments.

Calcium hypochlorite Ca(OCl)₂

Available in powder, granules, or tablets. Frequently used for treatments.

 

A note about chlorine and chlorides

There can be misunderstanding, so we will clarify.

The chlorine element (Cl) appears in many similar compounds. The most common form is as a chloride (Cl-), as in sea salt (sodium chloride, NaCl).

Chloride (Cl-) specifically is a type of electrolyte, which is inert. While hypochlorite (OCl-) is active.

You will notice that the chlorines above state HYPOchlorite.

Chlorides are not effective. For example, sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl) are inert and cannot be used for the purpose of treatment.

 

Concentration of chlorine to apply at the main head for a periodic injection regime

  • Preventive treatment: 5–10 ppm

  • Moderate treatment: 10–50 ppm

  • Aggressive treatment: 50–100 ppm

 
Unlike acid treatment where you can calibrate the required acid at the injection point, for chlorine you make the test at the end of the drip lateral during the injection. There is no specific calibration to know the dosage before, except to use rules of thumb like the above, and to test the end of the laterals during the injection.
 
The more organic matter you have, the greater the reduction of the chlorine due to the higher reaction. That is why you must measure at the end of the line, due to the possibility that the chlorine could have fully reacted before it reaches the end of the system.
 

Explore the next module, or search for a specific topic or issue.

Before using these modules, please familiarize yourself with the relevant disclaimers and additional safety and usage information contained within each module.

© 2023, Rivulis Irrigation Ltd, all rights reserved. 
Reproduction of this content in any form is prohibited without the written consent of Rivulis Irrigation Ltd.