What substance do ships use to purify water, sewage, and decomposed materials?

The use of calcium hypochlorite for purifying water, sewage, and decomposed materials is based on its effectiveness as a disinfectant and its ability to release chlorine when dissolved in water. Calcium hypochlorite is a commonly used compound in water treatment processes because it is a stable source of chlorine, which is essential for killing bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens present in contaminated water.

Additionally, it can help in the treatment of sewage by breaking down organic materials and reducing foul odors, making it an effective choice for onboard sanitation in naval vessels. The ability of calcium hypochlorite to provide a consistent chlorine concentration allows for more controlled water purification processes, aligning with the rigorous safety and health standards required in maritime operations.

While chlorine and sodium hypochlorite are also effective disinfectants, calcium hypochlorite is often preferred in situations where stability and concentrated chlorination are necessary for long-term storage and usage. Activated charcoal, on the other hand, is primarily used for adsorption of impurities and does not perform the same role in disinfecting and purifying as calcium hypochlorite does.