Hypochlorous & Electrochemically activated solutions, what's the difference?

In the field of modern disinfection, "electrochemically activated (ECA) solutions" and "hypochlorous acid" often appear as two separate terms. However, they are directly related and, in many cases, essentially refer to the same powerful solution.

• What Is Electrochemically Activated (ECA) Solutions?

An electrochemically activated (ECA) solution is created when an electric current is applied to a simple saltwater (saline) solution. This process, known as electrolysis, produces two key solutions: one oxidizing solution (which contains hypochlorous acid) and one reducing solution. Hypochlorous acid (HOCl), found within the oxidizing solution, acts as the primary disinfectant. With potent antimicrobial properties, hypochlorous acid is responsible for the powerful sanitation effects of ECA solutions.
While ECA technology refers to the process of creating this solution, hypochlorous acid is the end product that delivers the actual disinfecting action. This subtle distinction can help explain why ECA and hypochlorous acid are often discussed separately but work together as an effective sanitation tool.

• How the ECA Process Creates Hypochlorous Acid

Here’s a step-by-step look at how the ECA process produces hypochlorous acid:

1. Electrolyzing Saline Solution: ECA starts with a solution of water and salt placed into an electrolysis chamber.
2. Separation of Ions: As an electric current passes through the saltwater, it splits the sodium chloride (NaCl) into positive sodium ions (Na⁺) and negative chloride ions (Cl⁻).
3. Generation of Hypochlorous Acid: The chloride ions undergo oxidation, forming hypochlorous acid (HOCl), a highly effective disinfectant that becomes the active component within the ECA solution.

Thus, hypochlorous acid produced through ECA technology is the disinfecting agent responsible for killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. While ECA refers to the electrolysis process, hypochlorous acid is the antimicrobial agent produced in this process, making them interdependent yet distinct in their roles.

• Why Are ECA and Hypochlorous Acid Sometimes Referred to Separately?

Even though ECA solutions and hypochlorous acid result from the same process, they may be discussed individually for the following reasons:

• ECA as a Production Method: ECA describes the technology and process of creating disinfectant solutions using water, salt, and electricity. It refers to the process, not just the active ingredient.
• Hypochlorous Acid as the Active Disinfectant: Hypochlorous acid is the disinfecting agent in the solution. In many settings, such as healthcare, its name is highlighted for its recognized antimicrobial qualities and natural safety profile.
• Different Applications and Terminology: Various industries use distinct terminology based on needs. While “ECA solution” may be more common in technical or industrial settings, “hypochlorous acid” is often emphasized in healthcare, food safety, and areas requiring human-safe disinfectants.

Though ECA and hypochlorous acid are sometimes used as separate terms, they describe the same solution in practice. ECA produces the solution, and hypochlorous acid is the active ingredient within it.

• Advantages of ECA-Produced Hypochlorous Acid

Hypochlorous acid created through the ECA process offers multiple benefits, from effectiveness to safety:

1. High Efficacy Against Pathogens: Hypochlorous acid has strong antimicrobial properties, making it effective against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, without the need for harsh chemicals.
2. Safe for Humans and Environment: Since hypochlorous acid is a compound found naturally in the human immune system, it is biocompatible and safe to use in areas with people, pets, and food. ECA solutions containing hypochlorous acid break down quickly into non-toxic byproducts, unlike many traditional disinfectants.
3. Cost-Effective and On-Demand Production: Once an ECA system is installed, it allows facilities to produce hypochlorous acid on-site, using only water, salt, and electricity. This eliminates the need for frequent chemical purchases, lowering costs in the long run.
4. Environmentally Friendly: ECA solutions are eco-friendly, breaking down into harmless components after use. This environmentally sustainable profile makes them a great alternative to traditional chemical disinfectants that may leave residues or contribute to pollution.

In summary, electrochemically activated (ECA) solutions and hypochlorous acid are interconnected, with ECA technology providing the process and hypochlorous acid delivering the disinfection. Understanding the link between the two reveals why ECA technology is transforming the way industries approach sanitation by offering a safe, effective, and environmentally responsible alternative to traditional cleaning methods.