Why is Chlorine Dioxide Useful for Agriculture?

In agriculture, the growth of microorganisms in water pipes of irrigation systems remains one of the common challenges. It results in blockages thereby hindering the smooth flow of water to the crops. Also, microorganisms comprising pathogenic bacteria can contaminate the water for irrigation and potentially harm the growth of crops. To make matters worse, besides the presence of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and algae in water pipes, there is also the presence of biofilm. The existence of biofilm allows the growth of potentially noxious pathogens in the irrigation system.

Although there are several disinfectants to address the issue including the use of chlorine, it is the EPA-approved chemical compound Chlorine Dioxide (ClO₂) that is proven to be the most effective. In this blog, we discuss the effectiveness of this compound as an ideal treatment to control the growth of micro-organisms in irrigation pipes. And should you be an agriculturist in California or any other place in the USA, you may avail chlorine dioxide in Buena Park for best results.

Effectiveness of Chlorine Dioxide in Agriculture

In order to avoid blockages in the water pipes of irrigation systems and enhance their performance and durability, proper maintenance is necessary. Here, ClO₂ can be immensely helpful in treating any clogging issues.

Let’s took a closer look at the reasons behind blockages/clogging.

• Growth of biofilm
• Algae covering drip taps and emitters in the presence of sunlight
• Organic growth on clay molecules
• Drizzles of iron and sulfur due to organic conditions

Restricts Micro-organisms in the Irrigation System

Traditional non-oxidizing biocides fail to control the growth of micro-organisms in the pipes unless used in higher concentrations. However, even after applying in higher concentrations, these biocides aren’t effective on biofilm.

Further, since the above-mentioned disinfectants can cause potential harm to the irrigated crops, they should be used sparingly or not at all. This is where ClO₂ scores over others by effectively controlling the spread of biofilm. Besides, it doesn’t react with ammonia in water and also breaks down to non-toxic inert compounds. The compound, when used in higher concentrations, can disinfectant hard surfaces and control the growth of harmful micro-organisms. No wonder, many agriculturists lookout for chlorine dioxide suppliers to get the compound in the right quantity.

Eliminates Clogging

Chlorine dioxide is used in lower as well as higher concentrations in agriculture. For instance, a moderate rate of ClO₂ is applied to the irrigation systems to maintain the irrigation pipes and stop the growth of algae and other pathogens. On the other hand, it is used in higher concentrations to remove microorganisms present on hard surfaces such as pots and glass inside greenhouses.

 Some more advantages of Chlorine Dioxide

• Productive over a wide pH range (4 to 10)
• Removes several micro-organisms such as bacteria, fungi, biofilm, etc.
• Doesn’t affect plants if used in pre-approved concentration
• Converts into non-toxic chemicals in the presence of sunlight

Conclusion

ClO2 can be used extensively in agriculture. It not only saves the irrigation systems from micro-organisms but also boosts the quality of agricultural products. The popularity of the EPA-approved chlorine dioxide in Buena Park is due to its versatility as a sanitizer, fungicide, and algaecide. You can reach out to GO₂ International to avail the best services at cost-effective rates.