Electrolysis Study Effect on Electrolyzed Water as Disinfectant and Sanitizer

Abstract

The use of harmful alcohol-based disinfectants and sanitizers was a major concern throughout the CoVID-19 era. Frequent use of alcohol-based sanitizer can dry up the skin, and the effect is worsening for individuals with sensitive skin. Alcohol-based disinfectants are flammable and can ignite if used near a flame, spark, or other source of ignition. Using the electrolysis of sodium chloride (NaCl) aqueous solution method, this study aims to make Hypochlorous Acid (HOCl), a safe disinfectant and sanitizer. Two critical parameters were tested on the electrolysis effect of producing HOCl. The first is the amount of sodium chloride (NaCl) present, while the second is the type of electrode used, which are carbon, graphite, and titanium. The results showed that 10 grams of NaCl produces 50-200 ppm of HOCl, which is good for sanitizing purposes, and 30 grams of NaCl produces 500-800 ppm of HOCl, which is good for disinfecting purposes. The graphite electrode was also demonstrated to be capable of producing a clean HOCl solution. Using a UV-vis spectrophotometer, the effectiveness of the HOCl produced was determined, and it was discovered that HOCl is capable of killing bacteria. As a result, HOCl can be applied as a safe disinfectant and sanitizer in the fight against COVID-19.