Chlorine originates from the Greek root word “chloros”. Chlorine, discovered in 1774 by Carl Wilhelm Scheele, is a member of the halogen family (non-metallic elements) on the Periodic Table. Chlorine is highly reactive and make up only compounds or ions. It has the highest electron affinity and third highest electronegativity of all the elements due to its high nuclear charge. Chlorine gains electrons by reacting with other atoms of other elements. It is an element with amazing properties and is used daily in disinfection in homes, swimming pools, hospitals, and final stage water purification. When it comes to disinfection and bleaching, chlorine is the chemical of choice because of its unsurpassed effectiveness.
When we consider chlorine in regard to swimwear and swimming pools, we think of the disinfection of the swimming pool water, and that is good. However, there are negative side-affects; one is the degradation of swimwear. When chlorine is added to water, a weak acid “HCl” is formed. This acid is what destroys swimwear and as long as it is in the swimsuit fabric HCl is available to break down elasticity, shape retention and color. Chlorine is a strong “oxidizer”, and Suit Saver is an strong “anti-oxidant”. Suit Saver satisfies chlorine’s electron affinity thereby stopping chlorine’s attack on the swimwear fabric, rendering it inactive.