Which chemical is commonly used for pool disinfection?

The commonly used chemical for pool disinfection is chlorine, and while iodine can serve as a disinfectant, it is not as prevalent in pool maintenance as chlorine-based compounds. Chlorine is effective in eliminating bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens in swimming pools, ensuring that the water remains safe for recreational use. Iodine, though widely recognized for its antiseptic properties in smaller applications, is less effective in larger water bodies like pools due to concerns over staining and the potential for allergic reactions in some individuals.

Ammonia is typically not used for disinfection in pools and is instead used in other cleaning products. Soda ash, primarily sodium carbonate, serves as a pH adjuster and does not have disinfection properties. Sodium thiosulfate is mainly used to neutralize chlorine and is not utilized as a primary disinfectant in pools.

Understanding the roles and effectiveness of common pool chemicals is essential for maintaining water quality and safety in recreational settings.