Trichlor and dichlor are chlorine-based sanitizers commonly used in water treatment, but they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different applications. Understanding the difference between trichlor and dichlor is essential for choosing the most appropriate sanitizer for specific water treatment needs.
What is the difference between trichlor and dichlor? Trichlor indicates three chlorine atoms, whereas dichlor indicates two chlorine atoms.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Trichlor
– Definition, Features
2. What is Dichlor
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Trichlor and Dichlor
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Trichlor and Dichlor
– Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Trichlor and Dichlor
– Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
Key Terms
Dichlor, NaDCC, Sodium Dichloroisocyanurate, TCCA, Trichlor, Trichloroisocyanuric Acid
What is Trichlor
Trichlor, also known as trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA), is a powerful chlorine-based compound widely used as a sanitizer and disinfectant in various applications. Its chemical formula is C3Cl3N3O3, indicating the presence of three chlorine (Cl) atoms per molecule. Trichlor typically contains 90% available chlorine. It is highly effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and algae, making it a popular choice for water treatment in swimming pools, spas, and water purification systems.
Trichlor is available in different forms, including granules, tablets, and powder. These forms offer flexibility in application, allowing for precise dosage control based on specific sanitation requirements. Trichlor works by releasing chlorine into the water, which reacts with organic contaminants to destroy them and maintain water clarity and hygiene.
One of the key advantages of trichlor is its stability and long-lasting chlorine residual, which ensures continuous sanitation even in high-demand environments. Additionally, trichlor is often formulated with cyanuric acid, a stabilizer that protects the chlorine from degradation by sunlight, prolonging its effectiveness.
However, it’s important to use trichlor carefully and follow proper handling and dosage instructions, as excessive use can lead to cyanuric acid buildup in the water, known as “chlorine lock,” which may reduce the effectiveness of chlorine and necessitate corrective measures.
What is Dichlor
Dichlor, also known as sodium dichloroisocyanurate (NaDCC), is a chlorine-based compound used primarily as a sanitizer and disinfectant in various applications. Its chemical formula is C3H4Cl2N3NaO3, indicating the presence of two chlorine (Cl) atoms per molecule.
Dichlor contains approximately 56% available chlorine, making it effective at killing bacteria, viruses, and algae. This compound is commonly used in swimming pools, spas, and water treatment systems to maintain water clarity and hygiene. Dichlor is available in granular or tablet forms, allowing for convenient and precise dosage control. It works by releasing chlorine into the water, where it reacts with organic contaminants to eliminate them.
Similarities Between Trichlor and Dichlor
- Both indicate the presence of chlorine atoms.
- Trichlor and dichlor are both effective disinfectants and sanitizers.
Difference Between Trichlor and Dichlor
Definition
- Trichlor, also known as trichloroisocyanuric acid or trichloro-s-triazinetrione, contains three chlorine atoms per molecule. Dichlor, also known as sodium dichloroisocyanurate or dichloro-s-triazinetrione, contains two chlorine atoms per molecule.
Chlorine Content
- Trichlor has a higher chlorine content than dichlor. Trichlor typically contains around 90% available chlorine, while dichlor typically contains around 56% available chlorine.
pH Level
- Trichlor has a lower pH compared to dichlor. Trichlor tends to decrease the pH of water, which may require additional pH adjustment, while dichlor has a neutral pH.
Dissolution Rate
- Trichlor dissolves more slowly in water than dichlor. This slower dissolution rate makes trichlor suitable for use in floating dispensers or erosion feeders in swimming pools.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both trichlor and dichlor are chlorine-based sanitizers used in water treatment, they differ in their chemical composition, chlorine content, stabilizers, and application methods. Trichlor typically contains higher available chlorine, while dichlor offers a lower chlorine concentration. Understanding the difference between dichlor and trichlor allows for informed decisions when selecting the most suitable sanitizer for specific water treatment needs.
FAQ: Trichlor and Dichlor
1. Does Trichlor raise or lower pH?
Trichlor can lower the pH of the water over time. This is because trichlor contains cyanuric acid as a stabilizer, and cyanuric acid is acidic in nature. As trichlor dissolves in water, it releases cyanuric acid along with chlorine, which can gradually decrease the pH of the water.
2. What is Trichlor used for?
Trichlor is commonly used as a sanitizer and disinfectant in swimming pools, spas, and water purification systems. It effectively kills bacteria, viruses, and algae, helping to maintain clean and hygienic water conditions.
3. In what forms is trichlor available?
Trichlor is available in tablet, granular, and powder forms. Tablets are often used in floating chlorinators or automatic feeders, while granules and powder offer flexibility for shock treatments or direct application to specific sanitation-requiring areas.
4. What is a substitute for trichlor?
Dichlor is a commonly used substitute for trichlor, offering similar chlorine-based sanitizing properties. However, dichlor tends to be more expensive than trichlor and may also experience supply shortages, particularly during high-demand periods.
5. Why does pool pH increase?
The causes of high pH in a pool include the introduction of alkaline solutions, loss of carbon dioxide, high alkalinity, temperature changes, and environmental factors such as debris and other contaminants.
Reference:
1. “Trichlor.” Premier Pool Service.
2. “Dichlor.” Pool Research.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Trichloorisocyanuurzuur” By Capaccio – Own work (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Sodium dichloroisocyanurate structure” By Mykhal – Own work (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
Leave a Reply