Sodium Hypochlorite

About Sodium Hypochlorite

Buy sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl, CAS 7681-52-9) in 12.5% and 5.25% concentrations from Alliance Chemical. Available in quarts through 330-gallon IBC totes for water treatment, disinfection, and industrial bleaching.

Products In This Collection

This collection includes sodium hypochlorite 12.5% Technical Grade (12.5–13.0% available chlorine, density ~1.20 g/mL) and sodium hypochlorite 5.25% Technical Grade (5.0–5.5% available chlorine, density ~1.08 g/mL). Both are clear, pale yellow liquids with strong oxidizing properties.

Common Applications

Sodium hypochlorite 12.5% is the standard for municipal and industrial water treatment chlorination, swimming pool sanitation, cooling tower biocide treatment, and CIP disinfection in food and beverage processing. The 5.25% serves general-purpose surface disinfection, laundry and textile bleaching, and smaller-scale water treatment. Both concentrations are effective against bacteria, viruses, algae, and biofilm.

Why Buy From Alliance Chemical

Every product ships with a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and Certificate of Analysis (COA). Alliance Chemical provides same-day shipping with no minimum order and DOT-compliant packaging for this Class 8 corrosive material.

Related: See the Oxidizers and Bleaching Agents and Water Treatment collections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 5.25% and 12.5% sodium hypochlorite for pool shocking?

The 12.5% industrial concentration is approximately 2.4 times stronger than the standard 5.25% commercial bleach, allowing for faster breakpoint chlorination in swimming pools. Higher concentrations are more efficient for eradicating persistent algae blooms and breaking down organic contaminants, though they require more careful handling and PPE. Both solutions contain the same active CAS 7681-52-9, but 12.5% is the industry standard for commercial and municipal aquatic facilities.

How should sodium hypochlorite be stored to prevent decomposition?

Sodium hypochlorite is naturally unstable and decomposes over time, particularly when exposed to heat and UV radiation. To maintain assay strength, store NaOCl in opaque, UV-resistant HDPE containers in a temperature-controlled environment below 70°F (21°C). According to NFPA 704 standards, it should be kept away from incompatible materials like acids, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia to prevent hazardous chemical reactions.

Is sodium hypochlorite regulated by the DOT for shipping?

Yes, sodium hypochlorite solutions containing more than 7% available chlorine are classified by the DOT as Hazard Class 8 (Corrosive) materials. Under 49 CFR 172.101, it must be shipped under the identifier UN1791, Hypochlorite Solution, and requires specific corrosive placards and proper shipping papers. Alliance Chemical ensures all shipments of 12.5% NaOCl meet these federal transportation safety requirements.

Can I mix sodium hypochlorite with other cleaning chemicals?

Never mix sodium hypochlorite with acids or ammonia-based products. Mixing NaOCl with acids (like muriatic acid) triggers the immediate release of toxic chlorine gas, while mixing with ammonia creates volatile chloramines, both of which are lethal if inhaled. Always refer to the chemical compatibility chart and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.1200 guidelines to ensure safe facility management and spill response protocols.

What is the EPA registration requirement for sodium hypochlorite used in water treatment?

When used as a disinfectant, sanitizer, or algicide, sodium hypochlorite is regulated as a pesticide under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). Municipal water treatment facilities must use NaOCl that is NSF/ANSI Standard 60 certified for potable water applications. This ensures the product meets strict purity requirements for lead, arsenic, and other heavy metal contaminants as mandated by the EPA Safe Drinking Water Act.

How do I calculate the amount of 12.5% sodium hypochlorite needed for well shock chlorination?

The amount depends on the depth of the well casing and the static water level to reach a target concentration of 200 ppm (parts per million). For example, 1 gallon of 12.5% sodium hypochlorite will treat approximately 625 gallons of water to a 200 ppm concentration. It is critical to calculate the total volume of the well column first to ensure complete disinfection without causing damage to well components or excessive residual chlorine.

What PPE is required by OSHA for handling industrial bleach?

OSHA 29 CFR 1910.132 requires employers to provide appropriate PPE for corrosive substances like sodium hypochlorite. At a minimum, handlers must use chemical splash goggles, a face shield if splashing is possible, and chemical-resistant gloves made of nitrile, PVC, or neoprene. For large-scale transfers of 12.5% NaOCl, a chemical-resistant apron and boots are highly recommended to prevent skin contact and chemical burns.

How does temperature affect the shelf life of 12.5% sodium hypochlorite?

Temperature is the primary driver of NaOCl degradation; for every 10°C increase in temperature, the rate of decomposition roughly triples. At 77°F (25°C), 12.5% solution can lose up to 1% of its strength per month, whereas at 95°F (35°C), that loss can accelerate to nearly 5% per month. Facilities should rotate stock frequently and purchase only what is needed for a 30-to-60-day window to ensure maximum efficacy.

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