Oxidants in Daily Life and its Domestic Uses

Xiuzhu Yu, Department of Environmental Science, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China, Email: xiuzhu9956@gmail.com

Received: 01-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. EJMOAMS-23-101663; Editor assigned: 05-Jun-2023, Pre QC No. EJMOAMS-23-101663 (PQ); Reviewed: 19-Jun-2023, QC No. EJMOAMS-23-101663; Revised: 27-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. EJMOAMS-23-101663 (R); Published: 03-Jul-2023

About the Study

Oxidants play a crucial role in various aspects of daily lives, from health and hygiene to household chores and environmental applications. Oxidants are substances that have the ability to accept electrons from other substances, leading to oxidation reactions.

Health and hygiene

Oxidants such as chlorine compounds and hydrogen peroxide are widely used in maintaining health and hygiene. Here are some benefits:

Water treatment: Chlorine is commonly used to disinfect drinking water and swimming pools, effectively killing harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This ensures safe water consumption and reduces the risk of waterborne diseases.

Wound disinfection: Hydrogen peroxide is an effective antiseptic that helps clean and disinfect wounds, preventing infection and promoting faster healing.

Oral hygiene: Oxidants like fluoride are added to toothpaste and mouthwashes to prevent tooth decay and maintain oral health. These compounds inhibit the growth of bacteria, protecting teeth from cavities and gum diseases.

Cleaning and sanitization

Oxidants are instrumental in maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the homes. They provide several benefits:

Surface disinfection: Oxidants like bleach (sodium hypochlorite) are powerful disinfectants used for cleaning surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas prone to bacterial contamination. They effectively kill germs, including bacteria and viruses, preventing the spread of diseases.

Laundry care: Oxidants are present in laundry detergents, aiding in the removal of stains and odor-causing bacteria. Oxygen-based bleaching agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, enhance the effectiveness of detergents by breaking down stains and brightening fabrics.

Mold and mildew control: Oxidants are effective in combating mold and mildew growth. They eliminate the spores and prevent further infestation, ensuring a healthy living environment.

Food preservation and safety

Oxidants are essential for food preservation and safety, offering the following advantages:

Food processing: Oxidants like sulfur dioxide and hydrogen peroxide are used in food processing to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, extending the shelf life of perishable foods and ensuring their safety for consumption.

Food packaging: Antioxidants such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C) are used in food packaging to prevent oxidation, preserving the freshness and quality of packaged foods, particularly those prone to discoloration and spoilage.

Environmental applications

Oxidants play a vital role in various environmental applications, promoting sustainability and reducing pollution. Here are a few examples:

Water purification: Oxidants like ozone and chlorine dioxide are used in water treatment plants to remove organic contaminants and improve water quality. They effectively destroy harmful substances, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and toxins, making water safe for consumption and aquatic life.

Air quality improvement: Oxidants like catalytic converters in automobiles help convert harmful pollutants, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, into less harmful compounds, reducing air pollution and improving air quality.

Waste treatment: Oxidants are utilized in waste treatment processes, such as wastewater treatment and soil remediation. They help break down and detoxify hazardous substances, minimizing their environmental impact.

Oxidants have numerous benefits in daily lives and domestic uses. From ensuring clean and safe water to maintaining hygiene, facilitating effective cleaning, preserving food, and promoting environmental sustainability, oxidants are essential for the well-being and overall quality of life. Understanding and utilizing the benefits of oxidants can help us lead healthier lives, create a cleaner environment, and enhance the overall standard of living.

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