Trichloroisocyanuric acid reactions in swimming pool U.S.

Trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA) stands as a pivotal player in the realm of swimming pool maintenance across the United States. Its multifaceted reactions and properties contribute significantly to fostering optimal water quality, sanitization, and safety in the aquatic environments that bring joy and respite to countless individuals.

About trichloroisocyanuric acid

Trichloroisocyanuric acid is an important bleaching agent, chlorinating agent and disinfectant. The pure product is powdery white crystal, with pungent smell and strong chlorine smell, slightly soluble in water, easily soluble in organic solvent, easily decomposed in case of acid or alkali. The theoretical content of available chlorine is 91.54%, the available chlorine content of industrial products is not less than 85%, and the pH of 1% aqueous solution is 2.6-3.2.

Parameter of trichloroisocyanuric acid

Molecular weight: 232.41 

Chemical formula: C3Cl3N3O3  

CAS: 87-90-1

HS CODE:282720

Density: 2.07

Melting point: 225-230°C

Solubility (water at 25°C): 1.2g/100g

Solubility (acetone at 30°C): 36g/100g

Moisture content: ≤0.5%

The available chlorine content of trichloroisocyanuric acid is the highest among solid substances (including organic matter and inorganic matter), its solubility in water is low, and it has a good slow-release effect in solution.

Generally, the available chlorine content of bleaching powder is 25%~35%; calcium hypochlorite is 60%~65%; sodium dichloroisocyanurate is 60%~64%; trichloroisocyanuric acid is more than 85%.

[Available chlorine, qualitatively speaking, refers to the oxidized chlorine contained in chlorine-containing compounds; quantitatively speaking, the content of available chlorine originally refers to the percentage of oxidized chlorine in chlorine-containing compounds. 

(1) Mechanism of chemical action

The reason why trichloroisocyanuric acid has the effects of purification, washing, descaling, bleaching, sterilization, and disinfection is that it can quickly react with water when dissolved in water to generate hypochlorous acid, cyanuric acid, and isocyanuric acid. Among them, cyanuric acid And isocyanuric acid are isomers.

Hypochlorous acid can quickly release new ecological atomic oxygen, such new ecological oxygen (usually represented by available chlorine), has a strong oxidizing ability, can quickly oxidize organic substances and quickly kill various bacteria and various germs . Thus played the role of purification, cleaning, descaling, bleaching, sterilization and disinfection.

Generally, under acidic or near-acidic conditions, it is conducive to sterilization and disinfection; when neutral or close to alkaline, it is beneficial to cleaning and descaling; under alkaline conditions, it is beneficial to bleaching.

(2) Thermal decomposition and water decomposition reaction

Trichloroisocyanuric acid decomposes at around 230°C.

Trichloroisocyanuric acid will decompose when encountering a small amount of water, accompanied by a strong thermal effect, which will further promote its thermal decomposition conditions and produce harmful smoke; in addition, trichloroisocyanuric acid cannot be formulated into concentrated liquid or slurry, because the thick liquid or slurry is easy to decompose to produce nitrogen trichloride (an explosive chemical gas with lachrymatory effect). When preparing and using, pay attention to control the heating temperature, prevent violent stirring, and abide by the operating procedures, so as to meet the safety requirements.

The hydrolysis product of trichloroisocyanuric acid, isocyanuric acid, will slowly decompose into NH3 and CO2; when trichloroisocyanuric acid is hydrolyzed, when the concentration of hypochlorous acid in water reaches a certain level, it will form monochlorine ammonia and dichloride with ammonia in water. chlorine ammonia. Although trichloroisocyanuric acid is continuously hydrolyzed to generate hypochlorous acid, since the above reaction is a reversible reaction, the concentration of hypochlorous acid in water is maintained at a certain level, and the level of free residual chlorine will not suddenly increase too high.

Benefits TCCA bestows upon swimming pool enthusiasts

Chlorine Liberation and Oxidation

Upon introduction to swimming pool water, TCCA embarks on a transformative voyage. A hallmark reaction takes place as TCCA releases chlorine into the water. Chlorine, renowned for its potent disinfecting properties, embarks on a mission to neutralize a plethora of potential contaminants that may mar the purity of the pool. Through a process of oxidation, chlorine disrupts the cellular integrity of microorganisms, rendering them powerless and thwarting their ability to cause harm.

Microbial Warfare

As chlorine molecules liberated from TCCA come into contact with bacteria, viruses, fungi, and algae, a battle for supremacy ensues. Chlorine's oxidative prowess targets the very essence of these microorganisms, dismantling their vital components and preventing their proliferation. This microbial warfare effectively curtails the risk of waterborne diseases and infections, safeguarding the health and well-being of swimmers.

Residual Chlorine and Sanitation

One of the distinct advantages of TCCA lies in its ability to sustain a residual level of chlorine in pool water. This residual chlorine serves as a vigilant guardian even after the initial application, continuously battling new contaminants that may enter the pool. This sustained sanitation effect not only ensures the longevity of water quality but also minimizes the frequency of chemical dosing, optimizing the operational efficiency of pool maintenance.

Algae Suppression

TCCA's influence extends beyond microbial combat. It staunchly suppresses the growth of algae, a common adversary that can turn pool water cloudy and unsightly. By inhibiting photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, TCCA denies algae the opportunity to thrive, leaving the water sparkling and inviting.

Balancing Act and Caution

While TCCA's reactions bestow remarkable benefits, a cautious approach is paramount. Accurate dosing is essential to prevent chlorine levels from becoming excessive, which could lead to skin and eye irritation or affect the pH balance of the water. Maintaining a delicate equilibrium ensures that TCCA fulfills its role without overshadowing the enjoyment of swimmers.

Conclusion

Trichloroisocyanuric acid's reactions within swimming pools weave a tale of vigilant protection, meticulous purification, and the preservation of an inviting aquatic haven. Its chlorine liberation, microbial combat, and sustained sanitation work in harmonious synergy to ensure that the waters remain safe, clean, and revitalizing for all who seek solace and recreation within the embrace of a well-maintained swimming pool. In the tapestry of pool care in the United States, TCCA's reactions are threads of assurance, weaving an environment where health, enjoyment, and tranquility coalesce.