Applications of Sodium Percarbonate in Different Fields
Sodium Percarbonate (SPC), with the chemical formula 2Na₂CO₃·3H₂O₂, is an eco-friendly, solid form of hydrogen peroxide combined with sodium carbonate. It releases oxygen when dissolved in water, making it a highly effective and versatile oxidizing agent. Thanks to its powerful cleaning, bleaching, and disinfecting properties, sodium percarbonate finds applications across multiple industries. Below is an overview of its major uses in various fields:
1️⃣ Household and Laundry Detergents
One of the most common uses of sodium percarbonate is in household cleaning products, especially laundry detergents and stain removers.
Functions:
Acts as a bleaching agent, replacing chlorine-based bleaches.
Effectively removes organic stains such as tea, coffee, wine, blood, and grease.
Deodorizes fabrics by eliminating odor-causing bacteria.
Safe for most colored fabrics when used as directed.
Benefits:
Non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
Breaks down into water, oxygen, and soda ash (sodium carbonate) after use.
2️⃣ Industrial Cleaning
In industrial settings, sodium percarbonate is widely used in surface cleaning, degreasing, and sanitization.
Applications:
Cleaning brewing equipment, food processing machinery, and dairy equipment.
Removing stubborn residues and biofilms without leaving harmful residues.
Used in carpet cleaners and industrial floor cleaning agents.
3️⃣ Water Treatment
Sodium percarbonate is valued in water treatment for its ability to provide active oxygen, which can help:
Control algae growth in ponds and fountains.
Oxidize organic pollutants in wastewater treatment plants.
Improve water clarity in swimming pools as a non-chlorine shock.
4️⃣ Agriculture and Horticulture
In agriculture, sodium percarbonate is used to maintain hygiene and prevent disease.
Uses:
Disinfecting tools, greenhouses, and hydroponic systems.
Treating mildew and fungal growth on plants (with controlled application).
Soil oxygenation in some specialized cases, improving root health.
5️⃣ Cosmetics and Personal Care
Thanks to its mild bleaching properties, sodium percarbonate can be found in:
Teeth whitening products.
Facial cleansers with deep cleansing actions.
DIY bath soaks to deodorize and sanitize.
6️⃣ Medical and Pharmaceutical Cleaning
In healthcare, sodium percarbonate is used for non-toxic sterilization.
Cleaning surgical instruments.
Disinfecting surfaces in medical facilities.
Included in some formulations for denture cleaning.
7️⃣ Paper and Textile Industry
Sodium percarbonate serves as an eco-friendly bleaching agent in:
Textile processing (for cotton, linen, etc.).
Pulp and paper bleaching, reducing reliance on harmful chlorine-based bleaches.
🌍 Why Choose Sodium Percarbonate?
Eco-friendly: Decomposes into harmless substances.
Safer alternative to traditional bleaches.
Broad-spectrum antimicrobial and stain removal capabilities.
Stable in solid form, easy to store and transport.
🔔 Conclusion
Sodium percarbonate is a multi-functional, green chemical that has become indispensable in various industries, from household care to agriculture and industrial cleaning. As global demand grows for safer and sustainable solutions, sodium percarbonate's role will continue expanding across even more fields.