What effect does Sodium Hypochlorite have on the pH of wastewater when added?

Sodium hypochlorite, commonly used as a disinfectant in wastewater treatment processes, is a strong alkaline agent. When it is added to wastewater, it can increase the pH of the solution. This increase in pH occurs because sodium hypochlorite dissociates in water, producing hydroxide ions (OH⁻), which elevate the pH level.

In the context of wastewater treatment, maintaining appropriate pH levels is critical for effective disinfection and overall treatment efficiency. High pH levels can enhance the efficacy of chlorine compounds in killing pathogens. Therefore, understanding the impact of sodium hypochlorite on pH is crucial for operators to manage the treatment process effectively.