Aspects of chlorine utilization in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Annual U.K. production of chlorine stands at around 106 tonnes. Less than 1.5% (15,000 tonnes) finds direct application as a biocide, of which 10,000 tonnes (1976 estimate) is used by the C.E.G.B. (England and Wales) for the control of bacterial slimes and marine fouling in power station cooling circuits. This compares with 4000 tonnes used for treating domestic water supplies. Indirect biocidal application via chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides never exceeded 300 tonnes per annum. It is not standard practice in the U.K. to use chlorine in sewage treatment.