Biocides and Hypochlorous Acid: Effectiveness, Safety, and Sustainability
Disinfecting water is one of the most critical steps in civil and industrial water treatment. Ensuring microbiological safety while minimizing environmental impact and protecting operators’ health is a top priority.
Termoacqua integrates hypochlorous acid (HOCl) produced in situ as a sustainable alternative to traditional biocides, reducing consumption, costs, and ecological impact.
Common biocides: sodium hypochlorite, chlorine dioxide, hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid.
Advantages:
- Broad-spectrum antimicrobial action;
- High disinfectant efficacy;
- Easy application in existing systems.
Limitations:
- Degradation over time, reducing effectiveness;
- Handling and storage hazards;
- Formation of unwanted by-products (e.g., chloramines, trihalomethanes);
- Environmental impact from transport and disposal of chemical containers.
Sodium hypochlorite, widely used, is prone to thermal and photolytic degradation, requiring overdosing and increasing operational costs and corrosion risk in pipelines.
HOCl is naturally produced by the human immune system to fight bacteria and viruses. When generated in controlled conditions, it is highly effective, fast-acting, and non-toxic, capable of eliminating pathogens without producing harmful by-products.
Its neutral charge allows easy penetration of microbial membranes, providing effective disinfection even at low concentrations.
HOCl can be generated on-site via controlled electrolysis of a saline solution, eliminating the need for transport, storage, and handling of hazardous chemicals.
Key advantages:
- No chemical storage risks;
- Reduced CO₂ emissions from avoided transport;
- Minimal plastic waste, no single-use containers;
- Continuous, automated disinfection with controlled dosing;
- Neutral pH and low corrosivity, compatible with metal and plastic pipelines;
- Safe for operators and sensitive environments (hospitals, schools, hotels, industrial plants).
Integrated into Termoacqua’s automated disinfection systems, in situ HOCl reduces maintenance and manual monitoring, ensuring a cleaner, more efficient water treatment cycle.
| Aspect | Traditional Biocides | Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl) |
|---|---|---|
| Supply method | Transported and stored in containers | Generated in situ via electrolysis |
| Operational safety | Chemical and corrosive risk | Safe, neutral pH, non-toxic |
| Environmental impact | High (container disposal, residues) | Minimal (no residues or waste) |
| Microbiological efficacy | High, but risk of by-products | Very high, no toxic by-products |
| Management costs | High over time | Reduced (no transport, lower consumption) |
| Maintenance | Frequent manual checks and replacements | Automated management with remote monitoring |
