Chloramine-T 7080-50-4: Properties, Applications, and Safety Considerations

Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 is a widely used disinfectant and reagent in various industries.

What is Chloramine-T 7080-50-4?

Chloramine-T 7080-50-4, or sodium 4-chlorobenzenesulfonamide, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H6ClNO2SNa. It is primarily used as a disinfectant and oxidizing agent, known for its bactericidal and fungicidal properties. Chloramine-T is typically available as a white crystalline powder, highly soluble in water, and is a potent antimicrobial agent. Its stability and effectiveness make it invaluable across a range of industries.

Chemical Properties of Chloramine-T 7080-50-4

Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 exhibits several key chemical properties that contribute to its widespread use:

Oxidizing Agent: Chloramine-T is known for its strong oxidizing ability, which allows it to kill bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens.

Solubility: It dissolves easily in water, which makes it suitable for both aqueous disinfecting solutions and industrial applications.

Stability: Chloramine-T is more stable than free chlorine and has a longer shelf life, making it a preferred choice in many applications.

Electrophilicity: The sulfonamide group in Chloramine-T makes it an effective agent in various chemical reactions, such as protein modification and sanitization processes.

These properties enhance its performance in areas where efficient sterilization and disinfection are crucial.

Industrial Applications of Chloramine-T 7080-50-4

Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 is used across various sectors, primarily for its antibacterial and oxidizing properties. Some of the most prominent applications include:

1. Disinfection and Sterilization

Chloramine-T is widely employed in the healthcare industry for disinfection purposes. It is used for sterilizing medical instruments, disinfecting water supplies, and decontaminating surfaces. Due to its broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, it is highly effective against a wide variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

2. Aquaculture and Fish Farming

In the aquaculture industry, Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 is used to treat fish and other aquatic organisms for parasitic infections, such as gill flukes and external parasites. It is also used to disinfect water in fish tanks and ponds, helping prevent outbreaks of diseases in farming environments.

3. Analytical Chemistry

Chloramine-T is a useful reagent in chemical analysis. It is frequently used in oxidation reactions, particularly in the determination of certain types of metals and in the production of other chemicals. The compound’s oxidizing properties make it a key tool for chemists involved in synthesizing and analyzing organic compounds.

4. Textile and Paper Industries

In the textile and paper industries, Chloramine-T is used for bleaching and disinfecting purposes. It helps in the removal of colorants from fabrics and paper products, ensuring they are clean and free of any microbial contamination. Chloramine-T is also used in the preparation of certain dyes and finishes.

5. Sanitization in Food Processing

Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 is used to sanitize equipment and surfaces in the food processing industry. It ensures that food products are free from harmful bacteria and pathogens. It is often used in the form of aqueous solutions to disinfect conveyor belts, machinery, and other equipment.

Safety and Handling of Chloramine-T 7080-50-4

While Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 is an effective disinfectant and reagent, it is important to consider safety guidelines during its handling and use. Below are the key safety concerns:

1. Toxicity and Irritation

Chloramine-T can be toxic when ingested or inhaled, and prolonged exposure to its dust can irritate the respiratory system. It may also cause skin and eye irritation upon contact. Proper protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection, should be worn during handling.

2. Corrosive Nature

Chloramine-T 7080-50-4 is a strong oxidizing agent, and as such, it can be corrosive to metals and certain materials. It should be stored in appropriate containers that resist corrosion, and spills should be cleaned up immediately to avoid damage to surfaces.

3. Environmental Impact

Chloramine-T is harmful to aquatic life and can pose a risk to ecosystems if released into the environment. Care should be taken to prevent contamination of water sources, and proper disposal methods should be followed to mitigate its environmental impact.

4. Proper Storage

Chloramine-T should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and incompatible materials such as reducing agents. It should be kept in tightly sealed containers to prevent exposure to moisture or air, which could degrade its effectiveness.