Javelle Water is a solution of sodium hypochlorite which is often used as a bleaching agent. When pronouncing the word "Javelle", it is important to note the French origin of the word. The IPA phonetic transcription for Javelle is /dʒæ.vɛl/. The "j" in Javelle is pronounced like a "zh" sound, as in "measure". The "a" sounds like the "a" in "cat", and the "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "pet". Javelle Water is a powerful cleanser, but it's important to handle it with care as it is corrosive.
Javelle Water, also known as Javel water or Eau de Javel, is a liquid solution derived from sodium hypochlorite and produced by adding chlorine to a solution of sodium hydroxide. It is a powerful bleaching agent used for a variety of cleaning purposes, especially for removing stains and disinfecting surfaces.
The term "Javelle Water" originates from the French chemist Antoine Germain Labarraque, who first prepared and marketed this solution in the early 19th century. The product received its name from the street where Labarraque's laboratory was located, Rue Javelle, in Paris.
Javelle Water is commonly used in households and commercial settings as a stain remover for fabrics, particularly in laundry applications. Its strong oxidizing properties make it effective in eliminating tough stains caused by substances like coffee, tea, wine, and blood. Additionally, Javelle Water is utilized for general sanitization purposes, as it can disinfect and deodorize various surfaces, including kitchen countertops, floors, and bathroom fixtures.
However, caution is necessary when handling Javelle Water, as it can cause skin and eye irritation. It is essential to follow proper safety procedures and dilute the solution before use. Moreover, since Javelle Water contains chlorine, it should not be mixed with other cleaning agents, especially those containing ammonia, as this can produce toxic fumes.
Overall, Javelle Water is a potent bleaching and disinfecting agent widely employed in cleaning applications due to its effectiveness in stain removal and sanitization.
Liquor potassae chlorinatae (N.F.); the solution by this name used in France at the present time is usually one of sodium hypochlorite.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "Javelle Water" derives from the French term "Eau de Javel", which means "Javel water" or "Javelle water" in English. The name originates from the suburb of Javel, located in Paris, France. It was in this suburb that the first factory producing this solution was established in the late 18th century. Javel water, or sodium hypochlorite solution, was created through the process of infusing water with chlorine gas and sodium hydroxide. Over time, the name "Eau de Javel" was anglicized to "Javelle Water" in English-speaking countries.