What is difference between a free chlorine sensor and a chlorine sensor?

A free chlorine sensor is a device that measures the concentration of free chlorine in a water sample. Free chlorine refers to the amount of chlorine that is available to disinfect and oxidize contaminants in the water. It includes both hypochlorous acid (HOCl) and hypochlorite ion (OCl-), which are the active forms of chlorine that are effective at killing bacteria and other microorganisms.

A chlorine sensor, on the other hand, is a general term that can refer to any type of sensor that is used to measure the concentration of chlorine in a water sample. This could include sensors that measure free chlorine, as well as sensors that measure total chlorine or combined chlorine. Total chlorine refers to the total amount of chlorine present in the water, including both free chlorine and combined chlorine. Combined chlorine refers to the chlorine that has reacted with other substances in the water, such as nitrogen or organic matter, to form chloramines or other chlorine compounds.

Free chlorine sensors are commonly used in applications such as swimming pools, spas, and drinking water treatment plants, where it is important to maintain a certain level of free chlorine to ensure the water is safe and sanitary. Chlorine sensors are used in a variety of applications, including water treatment, industrial processes, and environmental monitoring.

Free chlorine refers to the portion of total chlorine in water that is in the form of hypochlorous acid (HOCl) or hypochlorite ion (OCl-). These compounds are highly reactive and have strong disinfectant properties, making them effective at killing bacteria and other pathogens in water. They are also effective at oxidizing organic matter, which can help to improve the overall water quality.

Combined chlorine, also known as chloramines, is formed when chlorine reacts with nitrogenous compounds in the water. Nitrogenous compounds are typically present in the water as a result of organic matter or sewage contamination. When chlorine is added to water that contains nitrogenous compounds, it reacts with these compounds to form chloramines. Chloramines are less reactive and less effective at killing bacteria and other pathogens compared to free chlorine. They are also less effective at oxidizing organic matter.

It is important to measure the concentration of free chlorine in a water sample, as this is the most effective form of chlorine for disinfection. Free chlorine sensors are commonly used in water treatment plants, swimming pools, and other applications where it is important to maintain the proper level of free chlorine to ensure the water is safe for consumption or recreation. Chlorine sensors, on the other hand, measure the total concentration of chlorine in a water sample, including both free chlorine and combined chlorine.

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