Question

Which chemical is used for whitening (or removal of colours) of cloth in cloth Industries?

• A. Calcium oxychloride
• B. Sodium hydrogencarbonate
• C. Calcium chloride
• D. Sodium carbonate

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Calcium oxychloride

Calcium Oxychloride in Textile Industry

• Calcium oxychloride, commonly known as bleaching powder, is a crucial chemical used in the textile industry for the whitening and decolorization of fabrics.

• Its primary function is to act as a powerful oxidizing agent.

• When dissolved in water, it releases hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which is the active bleaching agent.

• Hypochlorous acid breaks down the chromophores (colour-bearing molecules) in the fabric, rendering them colorless.