Chemicals..

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Did you know that 10-12% (commercial grade) Sodium Hypochlorite a.k.a. Bleach/Chlorine has around 13 PH, the 5% (retail, residential grade) has around 11 PH

The Sodium Hypochlorite is a light base with higher PH than the other base chemicals.

Another useful info for those who are getting into the cleaning business:

FYI:

BASE

In chemistry, a base is most commonly thought of as an aqueous substance that can accept hydronium ions. Bases are also the oxides or hydroxides of metals. A soluble base is also often referred to as an alkali if hydroxide ions (OH−) are involved. This refers to the Brønsted-Lowry theory of acids and bases. Alternative definitions of bases include electron pair donors (Lewis), and as sources of hydroxide anions (Arrhenius). In addition to this, bases can commonly be thought of as any chemical compound that, when dissolved in water, gives a solution with a hydrogen ion activity lower than that of pure water, i.e. a pH higher than 7.0 at standard conditions. Examples of simple bases are sodium hydroxide and ammonia.
Bases can be thought of as the chemical opposite of acids. A reaction between an acid and base is called neutralization. Bases and acids are seen as opposites because the effect of an acid is to increase the hydronium ion (H3O+) concentration in water, whereas bases reduce this concentration. Bases react with acids to produce water and salts (or their solutions).


Acid:


An acid (from the Latin acidus/acere meaning sour) is any chemical compound that, when dissolved in water, gives a solution with a hydrogen ion activity greater than in pure water, i.e. a pH less than 7.0 in its standard state. That approximates the modern definition of Johannes Nicolaus Brønsted and Martin Lowry, who independently defined an acid as a compound which donates a hydrogen ion (H+) to another compound (called a base). Common examples include acetic acid (in vinegar) and sulfuric acid (used in car batteries). Acid/base systems are different from redox reactions in that there is no change in oxidation state. Acids can occur in solid, liquid or gaseous form, depending on the temperature. They can exist as pure substances or in solution. Chemicals or substances having the property of an acid are said to be acidic.


Source: Wikipedia



 
Working Safely with Chlorine

Here is another very useful info:

[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]What are the fire and explosion dangers associated with Chlorine?[/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Chlorine does not burn. However, chlorine is a strong oxidizing agent and poses a serious fire and explosion risk because it promotes combustion, like oxygen. Most combustible materials will ignite and/or burn in chlorine atmospheres, forming irritating and toxic gases. Containers or cylinders may rupture violently due to over-pressurization, if exposed to fire or excessive heat for a sufficient period of time. Intense local heat (above 200 deg C) on the steel walls of chlorine cylinders can cause an iron/chlorine fire resulting in rupture of the container. Chlorine gas is heavier than air and will collect and persist in pits, hollows, depressions, and other confined or low-lying areas. [/FONT]
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Is Chlorine stable when exposed to air, moisture, or heat?
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[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Chlorine is normally stable. It reacts with water to form a corrosive solution of hydrochloric acid and hypochlorous acid, which can decompose to chlorine, oxygen and chloric acid. [/FONT]
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Are there any conditions to avoid when using Chlorine?
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[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Temperatures greater than 121 deg C, moisture [/FONT]
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Does Chlorine have an odour threshold (at what level can I smell it)?
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[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Reported odour threshold values are inconsistent. 0.08 ppm (detection). Other reports give the odour threshold as 0.2-0.4 (method not given). [/FONT]
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Is the odour of Chlorine reliable as a warning property?
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[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]NOT RELIABLE - after repeated exposures, olfactory fatigue, olfactory deficiency and tolerance to the irritating effects may occur. [/FONT]
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How can I work with Chlorine safely?
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[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]This material is a VERY TOXIC, CORROSIVE, COMPRESSED GAS. It is also a STRONG OXIDIZER. Before handling, it is extremely important that engineering controls are operating and that protective equipment requirements and personal hygiene measures are being followed. People working with this chemical should be properly trained regarding its hazards and its safe use. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]If chlorine is released, immediately put on a suitable respirator and leave the area until the severity of the release is determined. In case of leaks, escape-type respiratory protective equipment should be available in the immediate work area. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Immediately report leaks, spills or failures of the engineering controls. Facilities for the emergency disposal of chlorine from leaking containers should be provided in areas of use. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Unprotected persons should avoid all contact with this chemical including contaminated equipment. Be aware of typical signs and symptoms of poisoning and first aid procedures. Seek medical attention for all exposures even if an exposure did not seem excessive. Symptoms of a severe respiratory injury can be delayed. Any signs of illness should be reported immediately to supervisory personnel. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Consider using a closed handling systems for processes involving this material. If a closed handling system is not possible, use the smallest possible amounts in a well-ventilated area separate from the storage area. Prevent the release of gas into the workplace air. Consider the installation of a leak detection system with an alarm. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]This material is highly reactive. Do not use with incompatible materials such as ammonia and hydrocarbon gases (e.g., acetylene, ethylene). [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]No contact with materials which can burn. Eliminate all ignition sources. Post "NO SMOKING" sign in area. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Maintain handling equipment. Prevent leaks of grease or other lubricants from equipment where this chemical is used. Do not handle cylinders with oily hands. Do not allow contact with materials such as cleaning solvents, paints or thinners. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Inspect cylinders for damage or leaks before handling. Use the type of containers recommended by the manufacturer. Use corrosion-resistant transfer equipment. Regularly check storage tanks and transfer equipment for evidence of corrosion or leakage. Below 121 deg C (250 deg F), iron, copper, steel, lead, nickel, platinum, silver and tantalum are resistant to dry chlorine gas or liquid. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Do not heat compressed gas cylinders. Cylinder temperature should not exceed 52 deg C (125 deg F). [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Leave cylinder cap on cylinder until cylinder is secured and ready for use. Always secure cylinders to a wall, rack or other solid structure in an upright position. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Use the appropriate pressure regulator. Ensure equipment is compatible with cylinder pressure and contents. Follow supplier recommendations. Before connecting the cylinder for use, make sure that back feed from the system into the cylinder is prevented. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Do not open cylinder if damaged. Never use excessive force when opening. Open cylinder valve slowly to prevent rapid decompression and damage to valve seat. Keep cylinder valves clean and free from contaminants (particularly oil and water). Make sure valves on gas cylinders are fully opened when gas is used. Open and shut valves at least once a day, while cylinder is in use, to avoid valve 'freezing'. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Shut flow off at cylinder valve and not just at the regulator after use. Replace outlet caps or plugs and cylinder caps as soon as cylinder is disconnected from equipment. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Make sure cylinders are labelled clearly. Avoid damaging cylinders. Move cylinders by hand truck or cart designed for that purpose. Do not drop cylinders or permit them to bang against each other. Do not lift cylinders by the cap or with a lifting magnet. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Keep empty cylinders under slightly positive pressure. Do not use cylinders as rollers or for any other purpose than to contain the gas as supplied. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Follow handling precautions on Material Safety Data Sheet. Have suitable emergency equipment for fires, spills and leaks readily available. Practice good housekeeping. Maintain handling equipment. Comply with applicable regulations. [/FONT]
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What can be done to control hazardous conditions?
[/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Engineering methods to control hazardous conditions are preferred. Methods include mechanical ventilation (dilution and local exhaust), process or personnel enclosure, control of process conditions, and process modification (e.g., substitution of a less hazardous material). Administrative controls and personal protective equipment may also be required. [/FONT]
[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif] [/FONT][FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Because of the high potential hazard associated with this substance, stringent control measures such as enclosure or isolation may be necessary. Supply sufficient replacement air to make up for air removed by exhaust systems. Systems must be kept "dry" to prevent metal corrosion.
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[FONT=Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif]Source: [/FONT]Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine#cite_note-49

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chlorine#cite_note-49

 
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