B300a-11

Addendum to
ANSI/AWWA B300-10
Standard
for

Hypochlorites
Approved by AWWA Board of Directors Jan. 23, 2011.
Approved by American National Standards Institute April 11, 2011.

APPENDIX A
Recommendations for the Handling and Storage of Hypochlorite Solutions*
This appendix is for information only and is not a part of ANSI/AWWA B300.

Several key factors have been identified that impact the formation of perchlo-
rate, bromate, and other contaminants in hypochlorite solutions. The major factors
impacting perchlorate formation parallel those that also affect the decomposition
of hypochlorite: temperature, ionic strength, concentration, and pH. By using the
information gathered in the study referenced below and by applying the “Predictive
Model” to hypothetical liquid hypochlorite storage scenarios, several quantitative
and qualitative recommendations can be made:
1.  Dilute stored hypochlorite solutions upon delivery. The decomposition of
hypochlorite and subsequent formation of chlorate and perchlorate is dependent
upon hypochlorite concentration and ionic strength. Higher ionic strength and
hypochlorite concentration will drive the reaction towards a greater production of

* Hypochlorite—An Assessment of Factors That lnfluence the Formation of Perchlorate and Other Contaminants.
2009. Water Research Foundation, Denver, Colo.

Copyright © 2011 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

chlorate and perchlorate while also increasing the rate of decomposition of hypochlo-
rite. By diluting a 2M hypochlorite solution by a factor of 2, the rate of perchlorate
formation decreases by a factor of 7 because of the combination of concentration and
ionic strength effects. A fourfold dilution of a hypochlorite solution will decrease the
rate of formation by a factor of 36. A tenfold dilution of a hypochlorite solution will
decrease the rate of perchlorate formation by a factor of 270.
2.  Store the hypochlorite solutions at lower temperatures. Higher temperatures
speed up the chemical decomposition of hypochlorite and the subsequent formation
of chlorate and perchlorate. Every 5°C (9°F) reduction in storage temperature will
reduce the rate of perchlorate formation by a factor of approximately 2. To mini-
mize temperature increases, the product should be stored out of direct sunlight.
3.  Control the pH of stored hypochlorite solutions at pH 11−13 even after dilu-
tion. Storage of concentrated hypochlorite solutions at pH values lower than 11 is
not recommended because of rapid decomposition of hypochlorite ion/hypochlo-
rous acid and the consequent formation of chlorate, even though this reduces the
amount of perchlorate formed. When the pH is higher than 13, perchlorate for-
mation is enhanced because of the ionic strength effect. As such, utilities should
continue to insist that manufacturer specifications include pH control in the range
of 11−13. Given the typical pH range of on-site generation (OSG) hypochlorite
(pH 9−10), such solutions should be used as soon as possible after manufacture and
should not be stored for more than 1−2 days.
4.  Control the removal of transition metal ions by purchasing filtered
hypochlorite solutions and by using low-metal ion concentration feedwater for the
OSG systems and dilution water. The presence of transition metal ions results in an
increased degradation rate of hypochlorite. While this degradation is concomitant
with reduced perchlorate formation, the free available chlorine concentration is
also reduced, forcing a utility to use a higher volume of a hypochlorite solution,
which results in higher mass loading of contaminants such as perchlorate, chlorate,
and bromate.
5.  Use fresh hypochlorite solutions when possible. Hypochlorites will naturally
decompose to produce oxygen, chlorate, and perchlorate. Less storage time will
minimize the formation of these contaminants in the hypochlorite solution. Rotate
stock and minimize the quantity of aged product in storage tanks prior to the
delivery of new product. A fresh hypochlorite solution will also contain a higher
concentration of hypochlorite, thereby reducing the amount of solution required
to obtain the target chlorine residual. Again, higher hypochlorite concentration in

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Copyright © 2011 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.
a fresh hypochlorite solution will correspond to lower concentrations of contami-
nants dosed.
6.  For utilities using OSG hypochlorite, use a low-bromide salt to minimize
the amount of bromide present in the brine. Bromate formation will occur rapidly in
hypochlorite solutions in the presence of bromide. By controlling the amount of
bromide in the salt and source water used for on-site generation, bromate formation
can be minimized.

3
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Return to Main Menu Return to List of Standards Return to History of Standards

ANSI/AWWA B300-10
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA B300-04)

The Authoritative Resource on Safe Water®

©
AWWA Standard

Hypochlorites

Effective date: April 1, 2010.

First edition approved by AWWA Board of Directors June 2, 1953.
This edition approved Jan. 17, 2010.
Approved by American National Standards Institute Jan. 14, 2010.

6666 West Quincy Avenue Advocacy

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AWWA Standard
This document is an American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard. It is not a specification. AWWA standards describe
minimum requirements and do not contain all of the engineering and administrative information normally contained in specifi -
cations. The AWWA standards usually contain options that must be evaluated by the user of the standard. Until each optional
feature is specified by the user, the product or service is not fully defined. AWWA publication of a standard does not constitute
endorsement of any product or product type, nor does AWWA test, certify, or approve any product. The use of AWWA standards
is entirely voluntary. This standard does not supersede or take precedence over or displace any applicable law, regulation, or
codes of any governmental authority. AWWA standards are intended to represent a consensus of the water supply industry that
the product described will provide satisfactory service. When AWWA revises or withdraws this standard, an official notice of

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action will be placed on the first page of the classified advertising section of Journal AWWA. The action becomes effective on
the first day of the month following the month of Journal AWWA publication of the official notice.

American National Standard

An American National Standard implies a consensus of those substantially concerned with its scope and provisions. An Ameri-
can National Standard is intended as a guide to aid the manufacturer, the consumer, and the general public. The existence of
an American National Standard does not in any respect preclude anyone, whether that person has approved the standard or
not, from manufacturing, marketing, purchasing, or using products, processes, or procedures not conforming to the standard.
American National Standards are subject to periodic review, and users are cautioned to obtain the latest editions. Producers of
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ing and promotional materials or on tags or labels that the goods are produced in conformity with particular American National
Standards.

CAUTION N OTICE : The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approval date on the front cover of this standard indicates
completion of the ANSI approval process. This American National Standard may be revised or withdrawn at any time. ANSI
procedures require that action be taken to reaffirm, revise, or withdraw this standard no later than fi ve years from the date
of publication. Purchasers of American National Standards may receive current information on all standards by calling or
writing the American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036; (212) 642-4900,
or e-mailing info@ansi.org.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or
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Copyright © 2010 by American Water Works Association

Printed in USA

ii

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 Committee Personnel
The AWWA Standards Committee on Disinfectants, which reviewed and approved this standard,
had the following personnel at the time of approval:

Clifford L. McLain, Chair

©
General Interest Members

D.J. Gates, Citrus Heights, Calif. (AWWA)

G. Giasson, Pawtucket Water Supply Board, Pawtucket, R.I. (AWWA)
S.J. Posavec,* Standards Group Liaison, AWWA, Denver, Colo. (AWWA)
K.B. Stark, NSF International, Ann Arbor, Mich. (NSF)
D.R. Wilkes,* Standards Council Liaison, Jordan Jones & Goulding Inc.,
Norcross, Ga. (AWWA)

Producer Members

W.B. Huebner, Mine Hill, N.J. (AWWA)

J. Sloan, American Chemistry Council, Arlington, Va. (AWWA)

User Members

I. Alvarez,† John Preston Water Plant, Hialeah, Fla. (AWWA)

R.C. Lorenz, Westerville Water Plant, Westerville, Ohio (AWWA)
C.L. McLain, Moorhead Public Service, Moorhead, Minn. (AWWA)
A. Segars, Miami–Dade Water & Sewer Department, Hialeah, Fla. (AWWA)

* Liaison, nonvoting
† Alternate

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 This page intentionally blank.

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 Contents
All AWWA standards follow the general format indicated subsequently. Some variations from this
format may be found in a particular standard.
SEC. PAGE SEC. PAGE

Foreword 1.3 Application........................................ 1

©
I Introduction .................................... vii
2 References ........................................ 1
I.A Background ..................................... vii
3 Definitions ....................................... 2
I.B History ........................................... viii
I.C Acceptance ..................................... viii 4 Requirements
II Special Issues ..................................... x 4.1 Materials ........................................... 3
II.A Storage and Handling 4.2 Physical Requirements ....................... 3
Precautions .................................. x 4.3 Chemical Requirements .................... 4
II.B Strength of Solutions ......................... x 4.4 Impurities.......................................... 4
II.C. Sodium Hypochlorite ....................... xi
5 Verification
II.D Bromate in Sodium
5.1 Sampling ........................................... 5
Hypochlorite ............................. xii
5.2 Test Procedures ................................. 6
III Use of This Standard ....................... xii
5.3 Notice of Nonconformance ............... 8
III.A Purchaser Options and
Alternatives ............................... xii 6 Delivery
III.B Modification to Standard ............... xiii 6.1 Marking ............................................ 8
IV Major Revisions.............................. xiii 6.2 Packaging and Shipping .................... 9
V Comments ..................................... xiii 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance .................. 10

Standard Table
F.1 Chlorine Available in Sodium
1 General
Hypochlorite ............................ viii
1.1 Scope ................................................ 1
1.2 Purpose ............................................. 1

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 This page intentionally blank.

©
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 Foreword
This foreword is for information only and is not part of ANSI/AWWA B300-10.

I. Introduction.
I.A. Background. Hypochlorites is used as an all-inclusive term for chlorinated

©
lime, calcium hypochlorite, and sodium hypochlorite. A concise description of each
chemical follows.
Chlorinated lime: 25 percent to 37 percent available chlorine. Other common
names for chlorinated lime are bleaching powder and chloride of lime. Because it is an
unstable material and is subject to deterioration from heat and moisture, it is not usu-
ally fed dry but as a 2 percent solution. Excess insolubles present in this solution must be
separated by decantation before use. Storage in a cool, dry area, for no more than nine
months, is advisable. Chlorinated lime is available in 100-lb (45.4-kg), 300-lb (136-kg),
and 800-lb (363-kg) drums. Approximately 0.25 lb/gal (30 g/L) of water will produce a
solution of approximately 1 percent available chlorine.
Calcium hypochlorite: 65 percent to 70 percent available chlorine. This material is
unstable but more stable than the grade with 35 percent available chlorine. It is best fed as
a solution. Its theoretical solubility is approximately 22 g/100 mL of water (18 percent) at
room temperature; however, its practical solubility use is closer to 3 percent. Decanta-
tion is advisable before use because of the excess insolubles present. Storage in a cool,
dry area is advisable, but storage periods should not exceed one year. Calcium hypo-
chlorite can lose 3 percent to 10 percent available chlorine in one year. It is available in
3-lb to 5-lb (1.4-kg to 2.3-kg) cans, 2-lb to 9-lb (0.9-kg to 4.1-kg) plastic containers,
and 100-lb (45.4-kg) steel drums and in granular powder, granule, and tablet form.
Solubility tests that determine both rate and percentage should be conducted with
particular emphasis on testing the tablets. Approximately 1/ 8 lb/gal (15 g/L) of calcium
hypochlorite to water produces a solution of approximately 1 percent available chlorine.
Sodium hypochlorite: 12 percent to 20 percent available chlorine. Other com-
mon names for sodium hypochlorite are bleach, liquor, chlorine water, and Javelle
water. Sodium hypochlorite will undergo some decomposition over time. There are
numerous parameters that affect the rate of decomposition (see The Chlorine Insti-
tute* Pamphlet 96, Sodium Hypochlorite Manual).

* The Chlorine Institute Inc., 1300 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209.

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 Sodium hypochlorite is miscible in any proportion with water. It should be stored
in a dark area where the temperature does not exceed 80°F (30°C). A 12 percent to
20 percent solution is still liquid at 0°F (–17.8°C) but is a slush at –20°F (–28.9°C).
It is available in 5-gal and 13-gal (19-L and 49-L) carboys (glass or polyethylene),
30-gal (113.6-L) drums, and in approximately 5,000-gal (18,926-L) tank trucks. The
available chlorine content is as indicated in Table F.1.

©
I.B. History. The original AWWA Standard for Hypochlorites, prepared for
the AWWA Water Purification Division, was approved by the Executive Committee
of the Water Purification Division and by the Water Works Practice Committee and
received approval by the AWWA Board of Directors on June 2, 1953. It was designated
ANSI/AWWA B300 53T.
The initial document was reaffirmed without revision on June 17, 1955, and the
designation was changed from ANSI/AWWA B300 53T to ANSI/AWWA B300 55.
Subsequent revisions were adopted on June 5, 1964, Jan. 26, 1975, June 15, 1980,
and June 14, 1987. This standard was revised by the AWWA Standards Committee
on Disinfectants, and ANSI/AWWA B300-99 was approved by the AWWA Board of
Directors on June 20, 1999. A subsequent revision was adopted on June 13, 2004. This
edition was approved on Jan. 17, 2010.
I.C. Acceptance. In May 1985, the US Environmental Protection Agency
(USEPA) entered into a cooperative agreement with a consortium led by NSF International
(NSF) to develop voluntary third-party consensus standards and a certification program
for direct and indirect drinking water additives. Other members of the original consortium
included the American Water Works Association Research Foundation (AwwaRF, now

Table F.1 Chlorine available in sodium hypochlorite

Trade % Chlorine Chlorine Gallons to Liters to
gpl Available Available Equivalent Equivalent Obtain 1 lb Obtain 1 kg
Chlorine Chlorine lb/gal kg/L Chlorine Chlorine
200 20.0 1.630 0.200 00.610 005.000
160 16.0 1.333 0.160 00.752 006.250
150 15.0 1.200 0.150 00.800 006.667
120 12.0 1.000 0.120 01.000 008.333
050 05.0 0.417 0.050 02.400 020.000
010 01.0 0.083 0.010 12.000 100.000
Sample Calculation:
12 trade percent available chlorine = 120 grams per liter (gpl) available chlorine
120 gpl × 3.785 L/gal × 2.205 lb/1,000 g = 1 lb/gal available chlorine

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Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

Water Research Foundation) and the Conference of State Health and Environmental
Managers (COSHEM). The American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the
Association of State Drinking Water Administrators (ASDWA) joined later.
In the United States, authority to regulate products for use in, or in contact with,
drinking water rests with individual states.* Local agencies may choose to impose
requirements more stringent than those required by the state. To evaluate the health

©
effects of products and drinking water additives from such products, state and local
agencies may use various references, including two standards developed under the
direction of NSF, NSF†/ANSI‡ 60, Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health
Effects, and NSF/ANSI 61, Drinking Water System Components—Health Effects.
Various certification organizations may be involved in certifying products in accor-
dance with NSF/ANSI 60. Individual states or local agencies have authority to accept
or accredit certification organizations within their jurisdiction. Accreditation of certi-
fication organizations may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.
Annex A, “Toxicology Review and Evaluation Procedures,” to NSF/ANSI 60 does
not stipulate a maximum allowable level (MAL) of a contaminant for substances not
regulated by a USEPA final maximum contaminant level (MCL). The MALs of an
unspecified list of “unregulated contaminants” are based on toxicity testing guidelines
(noncarcinogens) and risk characterization methodology (carcinogens). Use of Annex A
procedures may not always be identical, depending on the certifier.
ANSI/AWWA B300 addresses additives requirements in Sec. 4.4 of the standard.
The transfer of contaminants from chemicals to processed water or the residual solids
is becoming a problem of great concern. The language in Sec. 4.4.2 is a recommenda-
tion only for direct additives used in the treatment of potable water to be certified by
an accredited certification organization in accordance with NSF/ANSI 60, Drinking
Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects. However, users of the standard may opt
to make this certification a requirement for the product. Users of this standard should
also consult the appropriate state or local agency having jurisdiction in order to
1. Determine additives requirements, including applicable standards.
2. Determine the status of certifications by parties offering to certify products
for contact with, or treatment of, drinking water.
3. Determine current information on product certification.

* Persons outside the United States should contact the appropriate authority having jurisdiction.
† NSF International, 789 N. Dixboro Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48105.
‡ American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036.

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Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 II. Special Issues.
II.A. Storage and Handling Precautions. Light, heat, organic matter, and certain
heavy metal cations, such as copper, nickel, and cobalt, accelerate the decomposition
of hypochlorites. Dampness appreciably decreases the life of metal containers in which
the powdered forms are shipped. Hypochlorites should be stored in a cool, dry place,
preferably in the dark or out of direct sunlight. They are very active chemically and

©
should be stored in a manner that prevents any possible contact with other materials
that are flammable, such as oil, grease, glycerine, or printed matter. When removing
hypochlorite from a drum, never use a scoop or vessel that is contaminated with
organic matter.
All hypochlorite solutions are corrosive to some degree and will affect the skin and
eyes on contact. Any affected areas should be washed with copious amounts of water.
Personnel are advised to use caution and to wear protective clothing (i.e., gloves, apron,
goggles, and a suitable vapor mask) when handling the solutions. Personnel should
refer to the manufacturer’s material safety data sheets (MSDS) for recommendations
regarding personal protective equipment.
Because chlorine gas can be released, never acidify a hypochlorite solution.
Hypochlorite solutions can add chlorate/chlorite ions to the potable water. There is
some concern about the health effects of chlorate/chlorite. Utilities using these prod-
ucts are advised to analyze for the chlorate/chlorite ion in their water supply.
Perchlorate is another possible contaminant in hypochlorites.
II.B. Strength of Solutions. There are several common ways that the
concentration of sodium hypochlorite may be expressed. These are listed below with
explanations.
1. Available chlorine. The term available chlorine came into usage as a means
of comparing oxidizers in different applications.
Because chlorine was among the first widely used oxidizers, it became the standard
against which other oxidizers were measured. As shown in the following equations,
sodium hypochlorite is capable of oxidizing the same amount of iodide ion as the chlo-
rine (Cl2) that it takes to manufacture the sodium hypochlorite.
NaOCl + 2Kl + 2HAc → I2 + NaCl + 2KAc + H2O
This may be compared with the reaction of chlorine with potassium iodide:
Cl2 + 2Kl → I2 + 2KCl
One molecule of hypochlorite ion has the equivalent oxidizing power of two atoms
(1 molecule) of chlorine. Therefore, sodium hypochlorite behaves as if all of the chlorine

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

consumed in making it is available for oxidizing purposes, even though half of that chlo-
rine is in the chloride form.
Available chlorine refers to the amount of chlorine equivalent to hypochlorite in
terms of oxidizing power. It is a measure of strength and bleaching power and, in one
or another of its related units of measurement, denotes the concentration of the bleach
solution.

©
2. Grams per liter (gpl) available chlorine. The weight of available chlorine in
grams contained in one liter of sodium hypochlorite solution.
3. Trade percent available chlorine. Commonly used to denote the strength
of commercial sodium hypochlorite solutions, it is similar to grams per liter, except
that the unit of volume is 100 milliliters instead of one liter. Its value is therefore one
tenth of the grams per liter.
gpl available chlorine
trade percent available chlorine = (Eq 1)
10

4. Weight percent available chlorine. Dividing trade percent by the specific

gravity of the sodium hypochlorite solution gives weight percent or percent available
chlorine by weight.
gpl available chlorine
wt % available chlorine = (Eq 2)
10 × (specific gravity of solution)

trade percent available chlorine

wt % available chlorine = (Eq 3)
(specific gravity of solution)
II.C. Sodium Hypochlorite. To facilitate a variety of calculations and operations
in different chemical processes, it is often important to know the concentration of the
actual chemical species, NaOCl, in sodium hypochlorite solutions. In addition, weight
percent sodium hypochlorite must be displayed on US Federal Insecticide, Fungicide,
and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA)–registered pesticide products.
Weight percent of sodium hypochlorite is defined as the weight of sodium hypo-
chlorite per 100 parts weight of bleach solution. It can be calculated by converting
weight percent of available chlorine into its equivalent as sodium hypochlorite; that is,
multiplying by the ratio of their respective molecular weights as shown below:
molecular wt NaOCl 74.44
= = 1.05 (Eq 4)
molecular wt Cl2 70.91
molecular wt NaOCl
wt % NaOCl = (wt % available Cl2) × (Eq 5)
molecular wt Cl2

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Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

or
wt % NaOCl = wt % available chlorine × 1.05 (Eq 6)

gpl available chlorine

wt % NaOCl = × 1.05 (Eq 7)
10 × (specific gravity)

= wt % available chlorine × 1.05

©
or
trade % available chlorine
wt % NaOCl = × 1.05 (Eq 8)
(specific gravity)

Generally, sodium hypochlorite solutions are produced at strengths up to 20 per-

cent by weight sodium hypochlorite. As strength increases, stability generally decreases.
Frequently, manufacturers provide a range of strengths depending on customer require-
ments. Bleach solutions with a strength of less than 7.0 weight percent sodium hypo-
chlorite are typically used in household bleach applications.
II.D. Bromate in Sodium Hypochlorite. Stage 1 of the Disinfectants and
Disinfection By-Products Rule requires potable water plants to meet a bromate MCL
of 10 ppb in their effluent. Water plants that use ozone in their treatment process
are required to test monthly for bromate. Water plants that do not use ozone but use
sodium hypochlorite solutions do not need to test for bromate but are required to use
sodium hypochlorite solutions that are certified under NSF/ANSI 60.
Sodium hypochlorite solutions certified to meet NSF/ANSI 60 will allow water
plants to meet the bromate MCL. Each facility must make certain that the sodium
hypochlorite they purchase is certified for their maximum anticipated dosage. Certifi-
cation to NSF/ANSI 60 may be accomplished at a lower Maximum Use Level (MUL)
than the standard MUL of 10 ppm (as chlorine). In some cases, a product could be
certified to a MUL as low as 2.0 ppm (as chlorine). If a water plant does not expect to
exceed this value, such a product is suitable for that site.
III. Use of This Standard. It is the responsibility of the user of an AWWA
standard to determine that the products described in that standard are suitable for use
in the particular application being considered.
III.A. Purchaser Options and Alternatives. The following information should be
provided by the purchaser:
1. Standard used—that is, ANSI/AWWA B300, Standard for Hypochlorites,
of latest revision.
2. Quantity required.

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 3. Whether compliance with NSF/ANSI 60, Drinking Water Treatment
Chemicals—Health Effects, is required.
4. Details of other federal, state or provincial, and local requirements (Sec. 4.1).
5. Type and grade of material wanted or required (Sec. 4.2 and 4.3).
6. Whether the purchaser will reject product from containers or packaging
with missing or damaged seals. The purchaser may reject product from bulk containers

©
or packages with missing or damaged seals unless the purchaser’s tests of representative
samples, conducted in accordance with Sec. 5.2, demonstrates that the product meets
the standard. Failure to meet the standard or the absence of, or irregularities in, seals
may be sufficient cause to reject the shipment.
7. Whether alternative security measures have been adopted to replace or aug-
ment the security measures set out in Sec. 6.2.5 and 6.2.6.
8. Form of shipment—bulk or package, and the type and size of container
(Sec. 6.2).
9. Affidavit of compliance, if required (Sec. 6.3).
III.B. Modification to Standard. Any modification to the provisions, definitions,
or terminology in this standard must be provided by the purchaser.
IV. Major Revisions. Major changes made to the standard in this edition
include the following:
1. Inclusion of a requirement for compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act
and other fed-eral regulations (Sec. 4.1).
2. Inclusion of a requirement for tamper-evident packaging (Sec. 6.2.5 and
6.2.6).
3. Additional clarification of the distinction between trade percent and weight
percent in the Foreword (II.B and II.C).
V. Comments. If you have any comments or questions about this standard,
please call the AWWA Volunteer and Technical Support Group at 303.794.7711, FAX
303.795.7603, write to the group at 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, CO 80235-
3098, or e-mail at standards@awwa.org.

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 ANSI/AWWA B300-10
(Revision of ANSI/AWWA B300-04)

©
AWWA Standard

Hypochlorites

SECTION 1: GENERAL

Sec. 1.1 Scope

This standard describes chlorinated lime, calcium hypochlorite, and sodium
hypochlorite for use in water, wastewater, and reclaimed water treatment.

Sec. 1.2 Purpose

The purpose of this standard is to provide the minimum requirements for
hypochlorites, including physical, chemical, sampling, testing, packaging, and
shipping requirements.

Sec. 1.3 Application

This standard can be referenced in specifications for purchasing and receiv-
ing hypochlorites and can be used as a guide for testing the physical and chemical
properties of hypochlorite samples. The stipulations of this standard apply when
this document has been referenced and then only to hypochlorites used in water
supply service, wastewater treatment, and reclaimed water treatment applications.

SECTION 2: REFERENCES

This standard references the following documents. In their latest edition,

they form a part of this standard to the extent specified within the standard. In any
case of conflict, the requirements of this standard shall prevail.
1

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

2 AWWA B300-10

NSF*/ANSI† 60—Drinking Water Treatment Chemicals—Health Effects.

Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (latest edi-
tion). APHA,‡ AWWA, WEF.§

SECTION 3: DEFINITIONS

©
The following definitions shall apply in this standard:
1. Manufacturer: The party that manufactures, fabricates, or produces
materials or products.
2. Purchaser: The person, company, or organization that purchases any
materials or work to be performed.
3. Supplier: The party that supplies materials or services. A supplier may
or may not be the manufacturer.
4. Day: A day is defined as a 24-hr period.
5. Potable water: Water that is safe and satisfactory for drinking and
cooking.
6. Reclaimed water: Wastewater that is safe and satisfactory for drinking
and cooking.
7. Tamper-evident packaging: Packaging having one or more indicators
or barriers to entry which, if breached or missing, can reasonably be expected
to provide visible evidence to the purchaser that tampering has occurred. The
tamper-evident features of the packaging shall be designed to and shall remain
intact when handled in a reasonable manner during manufacture, storage, ship-
ment, and delivery to the purchaser. Properly constructed, labeled, and closed
sheet-iron drums and plastic containers constitute two forms of tamper-evident
packaging.
8. Wastewater: A combination of the liquid and water-carried waste from
residences, commercial buildings, industrial plants, and institutions, together with
any groundwater, surface water, and stormwater that may be present.

* NSF International, 789 N. Dixboro Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48105.

† American National Standards Institute, 25 West 43rd Street, Fourth Floor, New York, NY 10036.
‡ American Public Health Association, 800 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20001.
§ Water Environment Federation, 601 Wythe Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 HYPOCHLORITES 3

SECTION 4: REQUIREMENTS

Sec. 4.1 Materials

Materials shall comply with the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act
and other federal regulations for potable water, wastewater systems, and reclaimed

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water as applicable.

Sec. 4.2 Physical Requirements

4.2.1 Chlorinated lime. Chlorinated lime (bleaching powder, chloride of
lime) is a fine, yellowish-white, hygroscopic powder of about 38 lb/ft3 –53 lb/ft3
(0.61 g/cc–0.85 g/cc)* bulk density, containing from 25 percent to 37 percent avail-
able chlorine by weight. It is manufactured by the action of chlorine on selected slaked
lime. The material contains some free lime. The exact formula is a matter of contro-
versy. One of the more generally accepted formulas is CaO·2CaOCl2·3H2O.
4.2.1.1 Chlorinated lime shall be substantially free of lumps. It shall not
contain any dirt or foreign material.
4.2.2 Calcium hypochlorite. Calcium hypochlorite [Ca(OCl)2] is a white
or yellowish-white granular powder, granule, or tablet containing from 65 percent
to 70 percent available chlorine by weight. The bulk density of the granular pow-
der is about 32 lb/ft3 –50 lb/ft3 (0.51 g/cc–0.8 g/cc), and the bulk density of the
granules is approximately 68 lb/ft3 –80 lb/ft3 (1.1 g/cc–1.3 g/cc). It may be manu-
factured by adding chlorine to a milk of lime slurry, which may be prepared by
mixing hydrated lime with water or by slaking quicklime with water.
4.2.2.1 Calcium hypochlorite granular powder or granules shall be substan-
tially free of lumps. Not more than 10 percent of the powder shall pass a 100 mesh
screen. It shall not contain any dirt or other foreign material.
4.2.2.2 Calcium hypochlorite tablets shall be uniform in shape. The weight
of the tablets shall not vary by more than 5 percent from the average value stated
on the label. Not more than 2 percent of the tablets shall be broken.
4.2.3 Sodium hypochlorite. Sodium hypochlorite solution (NaOCl) is a
clear, light-yellow liquid containing up to 200-g/L available chlorine (20 trade
percent). Passing chlorine into a caustic soda solution or into a caustic soda–soda
ash mix is one method of manufacture.

* Metric conversions given in this standard are direct conversions of US customary units and are not those specified
in International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards

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4 AWWA B300-10

Another method of manufacture is the use of an electrochemical generator.

This manufacturing method utilizes a sodium chloride feed to an electrochemical
cell where the salt is converted to sodium hypochlorite using electricity.
4.2.3.1 Sodium hypochlorite solution shall be a clear liquid containing not
more than 0.15 percent insoluble matter by weight.

Sec. 4.3 Chemical Requirements

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4.3.1 Chlorinated lime. Chlorinated lime shall contain not less than
25 percent available chlorine by weight.
4.3.2 Calcium hypochlorite. Calcium hypochlorite shall contain not less
than 65 percent available chlorine by weight when shipped.
4.3.3 Sodium hypochlorite. Sodium hypochlorite shall contain not less
than 100 g/L available chlorine (10 trade percent; see Sec. II.B.3 in the foreword).
4.3.3.1 The total free alkali (expressed as NaOH) in sodium hypochlorite
shall not exceed 1.5 percent by weight.
Sec. 4.4 Impurities*
4.4.1 General. The hypochlorites supplied according to this standard
shall contain no soluble material or organic substances in quantities capable of
producing deleterious or injurious effects on the health of those consuming water
that has been treated properly with the hypochlorites.
4.4.2 Product certifications. Hypochlorites are direct additives used in the
treatment of potable water and wastewater. This material should be certified as
suitable for contact with or treatment of drinking water by an accredited certifica-
tion organization in accordance with NSF/ANSI 60, Drinking Water Treatment
Chemicals—Health Effects. Evaluation shall be accomplished in accordance with
requirements that are no less restrictive than those listed in NSF/ANSI 60. Certifi-
cation shall be performed by a certification organization accredited by the Ameri-
can National Standards Institute.
All hypochlorites used in water disinfection are required to be registered with
USEPA under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA).†

* See Sec. I.C of the foreword.

† Government packaging and marking references reflect US requirements. Users of ANSI/AWWA B300 outside the
United States should verify applicable local, provincial, and national regulatory requirements. Because of frequent
changes in these regulations, all parties should remain informed of possible revisions. Provisions of the purchaser’s
documents should not preclude compliance with applicable regulations.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 HYPOCHLORITES 5

SECTION 5: VERIFICATION

Sec. 5.1 Sampling

5.1.1 Sampling point. Samples shall be taken at the point of destination.
5.1.2 Sampling procedures.

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5.1.2.1 Not less than 5 percent of the packages or containers shall be sam-
pled. No sample shall be taken from a broken package or container.
5.1.2.2 The powdered and granule forms of hypochlorite shall be sampled
by means of a sampling tube that is at least 3/ 4 in. (20 mm) in diameter. Tablets
shall be selected at random from each container sampled.
5.1.2.3 The total gross sample of the solid forms of hypochlorite, weighing
at least 16 lb (7.3 kg), shall be mixed thoroughly and divided to provide three
1-lb (0.45-kg) samples. The samples shall be sealed in airtight, moisture-proof glass
containers. Each sample shall be labeled for identification, and the label shall be
dated and signed by the sampler. This should be done rapidly and carefully to avoid
loss of chlorine.
5.1.2.4 Sodium hypochlorite shall be mixed thoroughly by rolling contain-
ers or by other suitable means before sampling. The gross sample, collected in
a clean earthenware or glass container, shall contain at least 10 qt (9.5 L). The
gross sample shall be mixed thoroughly and three 1-pint (0.47-L) samples provided.
These shall be sealed in airtight, moisture-proof glass or plastic containers. Each
sample container shall be labeled to identify it, and the label shall be dated and
signed by the sampler.
5.1.3 Sample handling.
5.1.3.1 The samples of chlorinated lime and calcium hypochlorite shall be
divided carefully and rapidly to approximately 100 g. After thorough mixing, the
100-g sample shall be stored in an airtight glass container and shall be kept in a
dark, cool, dry place. The container shall be kept closed to avoid loss of available
chlorine, except when portions of it are being weighed.
5.1.3.2 Sodium hypochlorite solution shall be mixed thoroughly before
withdrawing a portion for analysis. The moisture-proof glass or plastic sample
bottle shall be stored in a dark, cool, dry place and kept perfectly sealed after the
sample is withdrawn.
5.1.3.3 The laboratory examination of the sample shall be completed within
five days after receipt of the shipment.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

6 AWWA B300-10

5.1.3.4 Samples shall be stored for at least 30 days from the date of receipt
of a shipment before disposal.

Sec. 5.2 Test Procedures

5.2.1 Testing for available chlorine in chlorinated lime and calcium hypochlorite.
5.2.1.1 Reagents.
1. Crystalline potassium iodide (iodate-free).

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2. 0.1N sodium thiosulfate.
3. Glacial acetic acid.
4. Starch indicator solution.
5.2.1.2 Procedure.
1. Place 5 g of chlorinated lime or calcium hypochlorite into a nonmetallic
mortar, moisten with distilled water, and grind into a fine paste. Transfer to a 1-L
flask. Rinse the mortar with distilled water and add to 1-L flask. Make up to 1 L
with distilled water and mix.
2. Measure 25 mL of the solution from the l-L flask into a 250-mL Erlen-
meyer flask, add approximately 1 g of crystalline potassium iodide, and make acid
with approximately 4 mL of glacial acetic acid. Titrate* with 0.1N sodium thiosul-
fate until the yellow color of the iodine is nearly destroyed. Add approximately
1 mL of soluble starch solution and continue to titrate until the blue (blackish-blue)
color disappears entirely.
5.2.1.3 Calculation.
40 × 0.03545 × 100
sodium thiosulfate, in milliliters × normality × (Eq 1)
grams of sample
= percent available chlorine by weight
(That is, milliliters of sodium thiosulfate × normality × 28.37 = percentage
available chlorine by weight when a 5-g sample is analyzed.)
5.2.2 Testing for available chlorine in sodium hypochlorite.
5.2.2.1 Reagents.
1. Crystalline potassium iodide (iodate-free).
2. 0.1N sodium thiosulfate.†
3. Glacial acetic acid.
4. Starch indicator solution.

* Moist samples of hypochlorite partially decompose in storage and result in the formation of chlorite. In acetic acid
medium, ClO2 reacts with I– very slowly to release iodine. Therefore, if chlorite is present in the sample, a sharp
end point in iodometric titration may not be attained.
† Nominal; see Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (APHA, AWWA, WEF; latest edi-
tion), 4500-Cl B, for comparable standardization.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 HYPOCHLORITES 7

5.2.2.2 Procedure.
1. Measure accurately 20 mL of the sample, transfer it to a 1-L volumetric
flask, and make up to volume with distilled water.
2. Measure 25 mL of the solution from the 1-L flask into a 250-mL Erlen-
meyer flask; add approximately 1 g of crystalline potassium iodide; and make acid
with approximately 4 mL of glacial acetic acid. Titrate* with 0.1N sodium thio-

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sulfate until the yellow color of the iodine is nearly destroyed. Add about 1 mL of
soluble starch solution and continue to titrate until the blue (blackish-blue) color
disappears entirely.
5.2.2.3 Calculations. When volumes of sample and aliquot, as stated in
Sec. 5.2.2.2, are used:
40 × 50 × 0.03545
sodium thiosulfate, in milliliters × normality × (Eq 2)
10
= volume or trade, percent
or
sodium thiosulfate, in milliliters × normality × 7.092 = volume or trade percent
5.2.3 Testing for free alkali in sodium hypochlorite.
5.2.3.1 Reagents.
1. 0.1N hydrochloric acid.
2. Hydrogen peroxide solution, 3 percent.
3. Methyl orange indicator.
5.2.3.2 Procedure.
1. Weigh accurately 10 g of sodium hypochlorite into a tall-form, 200-
mL, heat-resistant glass beaker and add hydrogen peroxide until the action ceases.
Record the exact amount of H2O2 addition. Boil for 2 min and then cool.
2. Titrate with 0.1N hydrochloric acid, using methyl orange as an indicator.
3. Measure the same amount of hydrogen peroxide solution into a beaker
as was added to the sample in Sec. 5.2.3.2(1). Next, titrate with 0.1N hydrochlo-
ric acid using methyl orange indicator. Subtract this amount from the titration
method in Sec. 5.2.3.2(2).
5.2.3.3 Calculation.
net mL HCl × normality × 0.04 100
= net mL HCl × normality × 0.4 (Eq 3)
10 grams (weight of sample)
= percentage free alkali, as NaOH

* Moist samples of hypochlorite partially decompose in storage and result in the formation of chlorite. In acetic acid
medium, ClO2 reacts with I– very slowly to release iodine. Therefore, if chlorite is present in the sample, a sharp
end point in iodometric titration may not be attained.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

8 AWWA B300-10

5.2.4 Testing for insoluble matter in sodium hypochlorite.

5.2.4.1 Procedure. Pour approximately 100 mL of the sodium hypochlo-
rite solution into a tared 400-mL beaker placed on a laboratory platform balance
and weigh to the nearest 0.1 g. Add 100 mL of distilled water and mix thoroughly.
Filter through a tared Gooch crucible. Wash the beaker and crucible with distilled
water. Dry the crucible to a constant weight at 212°F–221°F (100°C–105°C).

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5.2.4.2 Calculation.
grams of residue
× 100 = % insoluble matter (Eq 4)
grams of sample

Sec. 5.3 Notice of Nonconformance

If the hypochlorite delivered to the purchaser does not meet the chemical,
physical, safety, or security requirements of this standard, the purchaser shall pro-
vide a notice of nonconformance to the supplier within 10 days after receipt of the
shipment at the point of destination. The results of the purchaser’s test shall prevail,
unless the supplier notifies the purchaser within five days after receipt of the notice
of complaint that a retest is desired. On receipt of the request for a retest, the pur-
chaser shall forward to the supplier one of the sealed samples taken in accordance
with Sec. 5.1. If the results obtained by the supplier on retesting do not agree with
the test results obtained by the purchaser, the other sealed sample shall be for-
warded, unopened, to a referee laboratory agreed on by both parties for analysis.
The results of the referee’s analysis shall be accepted as final.
The supplier shall provide to the purchaser an adjustment that is agreed on
between the supplier and the purchaser reflecting the diminished quality of the
product.

SECTION 6: DELIVERY

Sec. 6.1 Marking *

6.1.1 Required. Hypochlorites are oxidizing materials generally used
by water utilities as a disinfectant. Hypochlorites used for disinfection shall be
registered, labeled, and marked as prescribed by FIFRA. Labels should serve as a

* Government packaging and marking references reflect US requirements. Users of ANSI/AWWA B300 outside the
United States should verify applicable local, provincial, and national regulatory requirements. Because of frequent
changes in these regulations, all parties should remain informed of possible revisions. Provisions of the purchaser’s
documents should not preclude compliance with applicable regulations.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

 HYPOCHLORITES 9

warning that the material is a strong oxidizing agent and that contact with heat,
acids, or organic or combustible materials could cause fire. Shipments shall also
bear warning labels as specified by US Department of Transportation regulations.
Each package shall bear a legible statement identifying the active ingredient and
content, the net weight of the contents, the name of the manufacturer or distribu-
tor, the lot number, and the brand name, if any, and other markings as required by

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applicable laws and regulations. Each package must bear a USEPA registration num-
ber as well as the USEPA establishment number indicating where the product was
manufactured or last repackaged. For calcium hypochlorite tablets, each label shall
also show either the weight of each tablet or the number of tablets per unit weight.
6.1.2 Optional. Each package may also bear the statement “Guaranteed
by (name of manufacturer) to meet ANSI/AWWA B300, Standard for Hypo-
chlorites, for (type of hypochlorite contained in the package)” provided that the
requirements of this standard are met.

Sec. 6.2 Packaging and Shipping

Packaging and shipping of all hypochlorites shall conform to the current
federal, state or provincial, and local regulations.
6.2.1 Chlorinated lime. Chlorinated lime may be shipped in 100-lb or
300-lb (45-kg or 136-g ) sheet-iron drums. The containers should be tight enough
so that the material will not sift through cracks or openings but should not be air-
tight. Sealing compound shall not be used at the seams of metal drums.
Note: High pressure may develop in an airtight drum should rapid decom-
position of the chlorinated lime occur.
6.2.2 Calcium hypochlorite. Calcium hypochlorite may be shipped in
approved corrosion resistant containers or in metal drums. Sealing compound shall
not be used at the seams of the metal drums.
6.2.3 Sodium hypochlorite. Sodium hypochlorite solutions may be
shipped in glass carboys; in approved plastic containers; or in suitably lined, thor-
oughly clean tank trucks of approximately 5,000-gal (18,926-L) capacity.
6.2.4 Net weight. The net weight or net volume of packaged or container-
ized material shall not deviate from the recorded weight or volume by more than
an absolute value of 2.5 percent. If exception is taken to the weight or volume of the
material received, acceptance or rejection shall be based on the weight or volume of
not less than 10 percent of the packages or containers received, selected at random
from the shipment.

Copyright © 2010 American Water Works Association. All Rights Reserved.

10 AWWA B300-10

6.2.5 Security requirements for nonbulk shipments. Packaged product shall

be stored, shipped, and delivered in tamper-evident packaging as defined in Sec-
tion 3, item 6, or an alternative method or methods may be agreed on by the man-
ufacturer and purchaser that provide a reasonable assurance of protection against
tampering.
6.2.6 Security requirements for bulk shipments. Bulk quantities of product

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shall be secured by employing one of the following security measures (or a combi-
nation of measures):
6.2.6.1 Seals. Bulk quantities of product may be sealed with a uniquely
numbered tamper-evident seal(s). The seal numbers shall be recorded and disclosed
on shipping documents such as the Bill of Lading. Seals shall be inspected upon
receipt of product by the purchaser, and evidence of tampering or removal should
be reported to the carrier and supplier.
6.2.6.2 Chain of custody. A continuous chain of custody may be main-
tained between the manufacturer and the purchaser during storage and shipment
if so specified by the purchaser.
6.2.6.3 Alternative method. An alternative method or methods may be
agreed on by the manufacturer and purchaser that provide reasonable assurance of
protection against tampering.

Sec. 6.3 Affidavit of Compliance

The purchaser may require an affidavit from the manufacturer or supplier
attesting that the hypochlorite provided according to the purchaser’s order com-
plies with all applicable requirements of this standard.

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AWWA is the authoritative resource for knowledge, information, and advocacy to improve the quality and
supply of water in North America and beyond. AWWA is the largest organization of water professionals in
the world. AWWA advances public health, safety, and welfare by uniting the efforts of the full spectrum
of the entire water community. Through our collective strength, we become better stewards of water for
the greatest good of people and the environment.

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