Sodium chlorite 25% or 80% powder: differences, formats and how to choose
Sodium chlorite (formula NaClO₂, CAS no. 7758-19-2) is mainly sold in two forms: as a 25% aqueous solution and as an 80% powder. It is the same substance, but each format has different advantages depending on volume, working method and storage. In this guide we explain the differences so you can choose wisely.
What is sodium chlorite?
It is an inorganic salt with oxidising properties. Its best-known technical use is as a precursor for generating chlorine dioxide in situ in water treatment systems, by reacting with an acid activator. It is also used in industrial processes as an oxidising and bleaching agent. As an oxidiser, handling it requires order, ventilation and protective equipment.
25% sodium chlorite (liquid)
- What it is: an aqueous solution containing 25% by mass (w/w) of sodium chlorite.
- Advantages: ready to use, easy to measure by volume and no need to dissolve. It is the usual format in chlorite + activator kits.
- Formats at Aquapurelife: from 60 ml to 20 L, in HDPE (technical plastic) or glass. See 25% sodium chlorite.
- Who it is for: users who need small or medium quantities and prefer convenience.
80% sodium chlorite powder
- What it is: solid technical sodium chlorite with a content of approximately 80% NaClO₂; the remainder consists of salts that accompany the technical product.
- Advantages: much more concentrated, takes up less space, weighs less per unit of chlorite and has a lower cost per kilo of active substance.
- Formats at Aquapurelife: from 0.5 kg to 20 kg, plus lots and a 60 kg drum. See 80% sodium chlorite powder.
- Who it is for: industry, distributors and users who prepare their own solutions with suitable equipment.
Equivalence between the two formats
To compare prices, you need to look at the actual chlorite content:
- 1 kg of 80% chlorite powder contains about 800 g of NaClO₂.
- 1 kg of 25% solution contains 250 g of NaClO₂.
- Therefore, 1 kg of 80% powder is equivalent in chlorite content to about 3.2 kg of 25% solution (the solution has a density slightly higher than water, so 1 L weighs approximately 1.2 kg).
If your consumption is high, the powder is usually more economical. If you are looking for convenience and small volumes, the 25% liquid is more practical.
Comparison table
| Feature | Chlorite 25% (liquid) | Chlorite 80% (powder) |
|---|---|---|
| State | Aqueous solution | Solid powder/flakes |
| NaClO₂ content | 25% w/w | ≈ 80% |
| Preparation | Ready to use | Requires dissolution with suitable equipment |
| Formats | 60 ml to 20 L | 0.5 kg to 60 kg |
| Cost per kg of chlorite | Higher | Lower |
| Ideal for | Occasional use and kits | Industry, bulk and distribution |
Packaging: plastic or glass?
Sodium chlorite is compatible with both HDPE and glass. Amber glass provides better protection from light; HDPE is more impact-resistant and is preferred for large formats and transport. More details in our packaging guide.
Storage and safety
- Keep tightly closed, in a cool, dry place protected from light.
- Keep away from acids, organic matter and combustible materials: contact with acids releases chlorine dioxide.
- Handle with gloves and goggles, in a ventilated area. With powder, avoid raising dust and never mix in closed containers.
- Keep out of the reach of children and consult the SDS.
Frequently asked questions
Where to buy sodium chlorite in Spain?
At Aquapurelife we pack it in Spain and ship within 24-72 h to mainland Spain, the Balearic Islands and Portugal, with free shipping from €40. You can see all formats in the 25% sodium chlorite collection and in the chlorite powder collection.
Which activator is used with 25% chlorite?
The usual one is hydrochloric acid diluted to 4%. It is available separately (4% hydrochloric acid) or in the chlorite + activator kit.
Do you sell chlorite in bulk or to businesses?
Yes: lots of 5 to 20 containers, 5 and 20 L jerrycans and a 60 kg drum of powder. See the B2B and bulk section or write to us from the distributors page.
Technical and informative content about products for technical and industrial use. Always read the label and the safety data sheet (SDS) before handling any product. Sale exclusively to persons over 18 years of age.