Chlorine Tablets
Chlorine Tablets are solid, compressed forms of chlorine-releasing compounds, typically composed of stabilized trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) or sodium dichloroisocyanurate (SDIC). These tablets are used primarily for water disinfection and sanitation due to their controlled and sustained release of chlorine. They appear as white to off-white, hard tablets with a mild chlorine odor. Chlorine Tablets are widely used in swimming pools, drinking water treatment, wastewater treatment, and industrial sanitization processes. Their slow dissolution ensures prolonged antimicrobial activity, providing effective control against bacteria, viruses, algae, and other pathogens.
Chlorine Tablets Uses
Primary UsesÂ
Water Treatment & Sanitation
- Used extensively in swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs for maintaining hygienic water conditions by disinfecting and controlling microbial growth.
- Applied in municipal drinking water treatment for pathogen inactivation and to ensure potable water safety.
- Utilized in wastewater treatment plants to reduce microbial contamination before discharge or reuse.
Industrial & Commercial Cleaning
- Employed in sanitizing cooling towers, food processing equipment, and industrial water systems.
- Used in commercial and institutional cleaning for surface disinfection.
Secondary UsesÂ
Agriculture
- Used for disinfecting irrigation water and agricultural facilities to prevent spread of pathogens.
Healthcare
- Applied in hospital and laboratory settings for disinfecting surfaces and equipment.
Emergency & Disaster Relief
Used for emergency water purification in disaster relief operations due to ease of transport and application.
- Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Trichloroisocyanuric acid or Sodium dichloroisocyanurate (depending on tablet composition)
- Common/Trade Name: Chlorine Tablets, Pool Chlorine Tablets, Disinfection Tablets
- CAS Number:
- TCCA: 87-90-1
- SDIC: 2893-78-9
- HS Code: 2933.39.00
- Molecular Formula:
- TCCA: C3Cl3N3O3
- SDIC: C3Cl2N3NaO3
- Synonyms:
- Stabilized chlorine tablets
- Slow-release chlorine tablets
- Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid tablets
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; mild chlorine odor
- Melting Point: Decomposes at ~225°C (TCCA)
- Solubility: Soluble in water, releasing chlorine gradually
- Density: Approx. 1.7 – 1.9 g/cm³
- Stability: Stable under dry conditions; decomposes with moisture or heat releasing chlorine gas
- Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS): Oxidizing solid; corrosive; harmful if swallowed or inhaled
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 3
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 2
- Exposure Limits: Avoid inhalation of dust or fumes; use in well-ventilated areas
- Toxicity: Toxic by ingestion and inhalation; corrosive to skin and eyes
- Reactivity: Reacts violently with acids, bases, and combustible materials
- Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible substances (organic materials, acids)
- Container Type: Sealed plastic or metal containers with moisture barriers
- Shelf Life: Typically 1-3 years if stored properly
- Special Handling: Use gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection when handling; avoid dust generation
- Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- FDA Status: Approved as a disinfectant and sanitizer for water treatment
- REACH Status: Registered
- Transportation: Classified as oxidizing solid, corrosive material; regulated under ADR, IATA, IMDG
- Waste Disposal: Dispose as hazardous waste; do not release into environment untreated
- Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life; avoid environmental release
- Persistence: Chlorine decomposes rapidly; no persistent residues
- Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
Biodegradability: Not applicable; chlorine acts as disinfectant and decomposes
-
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, goggles, and mask/respirator when handling tablets
- Handling: Avoid inhaling dust or fumes; handle in well-ventilated areas
- Storage: Keep containers tightly closed; store separately from incompatible materials such as acids or organics
- Hygiene: Wash hands after handling; avoid eating or drinking during handling
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if breathing difficulty occurs
- Skin Contact: Rinse affected area with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with plenty of water for 15 minutes; seek immediate medical help
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek immediate medical attention
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Strong oxidizer; can accelerate combustion of other materials
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers; avoid dry powders that may react
- Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
Decomposition Products: Chlorine gas, nitrogen oxides, and other toxic gases