I read that calcium hypochlorite sold by swimming pool suppliers contains trace amounts of cyanuric acid which acts as a chlorine stabiliser. I read
that UV radiation in the sunlight causes the chlorine to dissipate and that cyanuric acid prevents this. How does UV radiation cause the chlorine in
the pool to dissipate? I know that UV causes homolysis of the Cl2 molecule and thus catalyses free radical reactions but I can't see how this would
cause the chlorine to be lost to the atmosphere? What would be the mechanism of the reaction?
Also, how does cyanuric acid prevent the reaction? I notice that cyanuric chlorides are superseding hypochlorites as chlorinating agents for swimming
pools. Its a pretty interesting compound cyanuric acid, next time I drop into a swimming pool supplier, I'm going to pick up some TCCA.
EDIT: I just read that when the concentration of cyanuric acid in a swimming pool is too high, it stabilises the chlorine to the extent that it is no
longer a disinfectant. I see now that cyanuric somehow renders Cl2 relatively inert. I'm sure its been tried but I have the urge to add some cyanuric
acid to a brine electrolysis cell to see if it inhibits hypochlorite formation.
[Edited on 22-4-2012 by mycotheologist] |