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Chlorine Chemistry
(cont.)
There are two other types of granular chlorine on
the market - the hypo-chlorites. Lithium Hypochlorite, like di-chlor, is a very expensive
product. At only 35% available, it takes almost 3 lbs of lithium to equal one lb of tri-chlor. Its pH of 11 will require additions of an acid to adjust the pool water. It's
main advantages are that it is calcium free and so it won't contribute to hardness
levels; it is also dust free and non-flammable. It dissolves extremely
fast, before it hits
the floor of the pool, so its use is safe in vinyl liner pools. Lithium can be used for either shock
treating or for regular chlorination.
Calcium Hypochlorite is commonly available in is
granular form, but can also be purchased in tablet form. Cal-hypo is a commonly used shock
treatment throughout the country. Although not stabilized with cyanuric acid, it has a
quick kill rate against algae and chloramines and has 65% available chlorine per
pound. Some
other granular forms of chlorine are more powder like and thus dissolve more rapidly than
the larger granules of cal-hypo. It is a good idea to pre-dissolve cal-hypo into a bucket
of water prior to adding it to a pool. It's popularity is due mainly to its availability
and low price, despite a high pH value of nearly 12, and the calcium binders used which
contribute to higher hardness levels. Cal-hypo is more dangerous and unstable than other
forms in that it is very dusty and becomes contaminated easily by foreign substances which
can cause combustion. Mix this product with water only and don't breathe the dust. Keep the lid
tightly secured and clean. |
