Which chemical compound is commonly used as a liquid disinfectant in wastewater treatment?

Sodium hypochlorite is widely recognized as a liquid disinfectant utilized in wastewater treatment processes. It serves as a strong oxidizing agent, effectively killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that may be present in wastewater. When added to water, sodium hypochlorite dissociates and releases chlorine, which is the active disinfecting agent responsible for its ability to eliminate harmful microorganisms.

The choice of sodium hypochlorite over alternatives such as chlorine gas or other compounds is due to its ease of handling and storage as a liquid. It also allows for precise dosing, ensuring that the appropriate concentration can be maintained for effective disinfection without the risks associated with gaseous chlorine.

While chlorine is also a disinfectant, it is typically used in gas form or as sodium hypochlorite itself, which makes the latter a more practical choice in many treatment facilities. Hydrochloric acid is primarily used for pH adjustment rather than disinfection, and ammonium sulfate is utilized as a nutrient source rather than a disinfectant. Thus, sodium hypochlorite stands out as the preferred liquid disinfectant in wastewater treatment due to its effectiveness and practicality.