The primary disinfectant used in swimming pools is chlorine. Chlorine is widely favored due to its effectiveness in killing bacteria, viruses, algae, and other pathogens, ensuring safe and hygienic pool water
Forms of Chlorine Used in Pools
- Liquid chlorine (sodium hypochlorite)
- Calcium hypochlorite (dry powder or granules)
- Stabilized chlorine tablets (e.g., trichlor and dichlor, which contain cyanuric acid to protect chlorine from sunlight degradation)
- Salt-generated chlorine (via saltwater chlorination systems)
These chlorine compounds dissolve in water to form hypochlorous acid (HOCl), the active disinfecting agent that kills microorganisms
Alternatives to Chlorine
- Bromine : Used mainly in indoor pools and spas; more stable at higher temperatures and less irritating but more expensive
- Ozone : An effective oxidizer and disinfectant, often used as a supplemental system but does not leave a residual sanitizer in the water
- Ultraviolet (UV) systems : Kill microorganisms but do not provide residual disinfection, so they are used alongside chlorine or bromine
- Other less common sanitizers : Biguanides, hydrogen peroxide, copper-silver ionization (CSI), and advanced oxidation processes are also used but less frequently
Summary
Chlorine remains the most common and cost-effective disinfectant for swimming pools due to its strong and lasting sanitizing properties. Proper maintenance, including monitoring chlorine levels and pH, is essential to ensure effective disinfection and swimmer comfort
