Colorless or pale greenish-yellow liquid with chlorine odor. The formula is NaOCl. It dissolves well in water and the aqueous solution decomposes during storage and generates chlorine gas; if stored for a long time, it becomes ineffective as a disinfectant. The sterilizability is influenced by pH and effective chlorine amount, but it is in non dissociation. The lower the pH, the stronger the sterilizing power; and the sterilizability is decreased by amino acid, protein and sugar. The sterilizability is strongest when adjusting to pH 8-9 after diluting to 100 ppm. It is highly corrosive and should not be in contact with the metal container. When used for sterilizing the dishware, it must be used after cleaning. It should be stored in the glass container.