Which chemical is commonly used for disinfection in wastewater treatment facilities?

Chlorine is widely used in wastewater treatment facilities as a primary disinfectant due to its effectiveness in eliminating pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. This chemical works by breaking down the cellular structure of microorganisms, thereby inactivating them and significantly reducing the risk of waterborne diseases in treated effluent.

Chlorination is a well-established process and offers several advantages, including relatively low costs, ease of application, and the ability to provide a residual disinfectant effect, which helps maintain water quality as it travels through piping systems. Other chemicals can serve as disinfectants, but chlorine remains one of the most common choices due to its proven track record and comprehensive regulatory acceptance in many wastewater treatment operations.

Alternatives like hydrogen peroxide and ozone are also utilized, though they may not be as prevalent as chlorine. Sodium bicarbonate, on the other hand, is primarily used for pH adjustment rather than disinfection.