Redox value: How oxidation stops germs - Hydroliq

Redox value: How oxidation stops germs

The redox value (also known as redox potential) is a key chemical parameter that determines the effectiveness of disinfectants. It describes the ratio between REDuction (electron uptake) and OXidation (electron release) in a solution. The redox value is measured in millivolts (mV) and indicates how strongly a solution has an oxidizing or reducing effect. A high value indicates a strongly oxidizing environment, which is ideal for destroying microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi.

Substances with a high redox potential, such as ozone or hypochlorous acid, remove electrons from other molecules. This oxidation destabilizes chemical bonds and destroys the cell structures of microorganisms, which leads to their destruction.
  • High redox values (> +650 mV): Strongly oxidizing, suitable for killing microorganisms.
  • Low or negative redox values: Reducing environment, not very suitable for disinfection purposes.

  • The redox value therefore plays a decisive role in disinfection.

Why is the redox value important for disinfection?


The killing of microorganisms is based on a simple but effective principle: oxidizing agents with a high redox potential remove electrons from the cell structures of the germs. This damages cell membranes, enzymes and DNA. The microorganisms can no longer maintain their vital functions and die.

A high redox potential indicates how strong the oxidizing effect of a solution is. A higher voltage means faster and more effective germ elimination.

    Examples of the dependence of disinfection on the redox value:


  • At a redox value above +750 mV, most bacteria, viruses and fungi are quickly killed.
  • If the value falls below +650 mV, the disinfection effect decreases drastically.

How is the redox value measured?




Special electrodes that measure the electrical voltage in a solution are used to monitor the redox value. These devices enable precise control and ensure that the solution is always within the optimum range.

    In practice, the following redox values are maintained depending on the application:


  • Drinking water disinfection: +650 to +850 mV
  • Swimming pool disinfection: +750 to +850 mV
  • Industrial and food hygiene: over +800 mV for maximum effectiveness

The role of hypochlorous acid (HOCl)


Hypochlorous acid (HOCl) is an efficient disinfectant, which is characterized by its dual property as a strong oxidizing agent and good compatibility for humans, the environment and animals. With a high redox potential, HOCl destroys both cell membranes and proteins of microorganisms within seconds. Its advantage lies in its high effectiveness at low concentrations. All Hydroliq products have a redox value of at least 800 mV.

Conclusion:


The redox value is a decisive parameter for the effectiveness of disinfectant solutions. It provides information about the ability of the solution to destroy microorganisms quickly and efficiently through oxidation. By selecting suitable oxidizing agents, optimizing the pH value and controlling the concentration, the redox value can be specifically increased and kept stable.

Hypochlorous acid is an excellent example of the practical application of the redox value in disinfection. Thanks to its high redox potential, it enables powerful yet gentle disinfection that meets even the highest hygiene requirements.

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