The Consorcio de Aguas Bilbao Bizkaia (CABB) has taken a step forward in the improvement of water quality with the acquisition of two units of specialized equipment for chlorine valorization. One of these units has been transferred to the CATABB facilities, where the first tests will be carried out. The equipment, intended for laboratory use, offers more advanced and detailed analysis capabilities. This instrument will allow comprehensive studies on the composition and quality of sodium hypochlorite, as well as monitoring its degradation over time under various conditions. In addition, CATABB itself has another portable device that uses kits for on-site analysis. This tool will allow rapid and accurate assessments to be carried out at any point in the distribution system.
The acquisition of these two chlorine assessment kits represents a significant advance in CATABB’s ability to monitor and control water quality. This initiative by CATABB not only demonstrates its commitment to continuous water quality improvement, but also reflects its willingness to adopt advanced technologies to address complex water treatment challenges.
The natural degradation of sodium hypochlorite is a well-known phenomenon in water treatment. As it breaks down, it not only loses its effectiveness as a disinfectant, but can also generate unwanted byproducts. These by-products can adversely affect water quality.
With this equipment, CATABB intends to closely monitor the degradation of sodium hypochlorite under different storage conditions. This study will determine how factors such as temperature, light, pH and storage time affect the stability and efficacy of the compound. The results of this research will be fundamental to optimize the storage protocols and use of sodium hypochlorite at the DWTP and throughout the distribution system. It is expected that this information will allow CABB to implement preventive measures to minimize the degradation of sodium hypochlorite, thus maintaining its disinfectant efficacy for longer periods of time.