Hypochlorous Acid, Keeping Drip Tables & Irrigation Systems Clean
What is Hypochlorous Acid?
Hypochlorous acid is a weak acid solution, widely used in applications ranging from food processing facilities to hospital surgical units to keep things hygienic and kill harmful bacteria, pathogens, etc.
Aside from these industrial applications, It’s also very well suited to keeping mineral salts and biofilms from accumulating on growing surfaces such as irrigation systems and tanks. Fortunately, Hypochlorous acid (HOCl-) is available in stable concentrates specifically for drip applications that can be injected directly into fertigation systems or added into hydroponics reservoirs.
Substances such as biofilms and other naturally occurring residues, if left unchecked in hydroponics systems, can lead to crop failures. In extreme circumstances, it can require irrigation system removal and replacement. Both are expensive prospects and important considerations for the professional as well as a residential grower.
Fortunately, HOCl- concentrates like Clear Line or UC Roots can also be added to water storage systems, for example, RO product water tanks to help keep water supplies hygienic.
What Are BioFilms
Biofilms form as complex collectives of exudate and microorganisms, competing with roots for resources like minerals and oxygen, often serving as a vector for various crop infections. Studies demonstrate that as soon as the water comes into contact with surfaces, especially irrigation pipes in warm well illuminated places, these films begin to form.
Over time, they can develop at faster rates and with a higher level of persistence when there is a constant source of moisture and microbial food source. Organic debris, nutrients, aerobic and aerobic microbes, among others, are key contributors to the existence and formation of biofilms.
Clear Line vs UC Roots: What’s the Difference?
Clear Line – is a highly concentrated form of HOCl- designed for use in a variety of applications, including fertigation injection systems. Its concentrated form makes it more cost-effective to utilize at scale. When added into a feeding program, dosage rates are typically 0.25 to 1ml per US Gallon to reach optimal ORP values. Clear Line is 5 times as concentrated as the competition, at only 3 times the cost!
UC Roots – is a more diluted and easier to apply in recirculating water culture systems such as the Current Culture Under Current or HPAC (high-pressure aeroponic cloner) systems. Typical dosage rates range from 3 to 5 ml per US Gallon of nutrient solution.
Source: https://hydrobuilder.com/learn/hypochlorous-acid-growing-applications/