Colorimetric detection of chloroperoxyl radical in reactive chlorine species solutions

Chlorous acid water (CAW) is a chlorine-based disinfectant approved as a food additive in Japan. CAW is synthesized by the reaction of chloric acid aqueous solution with hydrogen peroxide under acidic conditions. However, in this synthesis method, various ions-such as Na+ from NaClO3 and the conjugate base of the acid used-remain in the solution, hindering the selective detection and decreasing stability of chloroperoxyl radical (ClOO•), a potential key disinfectant species. In this study, we aimed to establish a colorimetric quantification method for ClOO•. We prepared a high-purity ClOO• solution (ClO2_cx) by cation exchange and its purity and stability were evaluated using electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy and total chlorine concentration measurements. Furthermore, several colorimetric methods-including DPD, TMB, and DPPH assays-were examined to quantify ClOO•, and their sensitivity and selectivity were comparatively assessed. ClOO• was the sole detectable oxidant in the solution, with a lifetime exceeding 100 h, indicating exceptional stability under ambient conditions. Among the evaluated colorimetric methods, the DPD-based method was found to be suitable for quantifying ClOO•, showing a wide detection range and excellent linearity. This study represents the first report of a colorimetric quantification method for ClOO•. Our findings are expected to be useful for quantitatively discussing the biological efficacy of ClOO• and its reaction mechanisms.