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Frequently asked questions
Answers on HOCl technology, choosing the right product, application technique and other common questions. If you can't find your answer, contact our team directly.
I. Technology, mechanism & differences
What is Bio ActiW?
A stabilised HOCl (hypochlorous acid) solution — a natural oxidising agent that mirrors the mechanism white blood cells use to destroy pathogens.
Is HOCl just diluted bleach?
No. Bleach is sodium hypochlorite (OCl⁻), strongly alkaline and corrosive. HOCl is a mild, near-neutral acid with considerably stronger antimicrobial action at the same concentration according to widely published science. *Specific comparative figures are being verified against sources before publication.
How does it kill microorganisms?
Forced oxidation: it destroys the cell membrane, penetrates the cell and inactivates bacterial and viral DNA/RNA.
Why is HOCl considered better than older chlorine-based disinfectants?
Traditional chlorine carries a negative charge and is repelled by the (also negatively charged) bacterial cell membrane, making penetration difficult. HOCl is charge-neutral, so it passes through the membrane and acts from within far more quickly.
Does it deal with biofilm in pipework?
This is one of HOCl's advantages in the literature: conventional chlorine struggles to penetrate thick biofilm, whereas HOCl penetrates and breaks down that structure more effectively.
At what pH does the product work best?
Optimal efficacy is at pH 5.0 – 6.5. In strongly alkaline conditions (above pH 7.5), HOCl converts to OCl⁻ and loses most of its effect.
Is the product naturally derived?
It is made from pure salt, water and electricity via electrolysis. After acting, the solution reverts to water and a trace amount of salt.
II. Choosing a product & size
How many lines and sizes does Bio ActiW offer?
There are currently 12 product lines across 45 SKUs: VET, Dairy Dip Spray, Aqua, Pet, Home, Hand, Agro ECA, Sport, Food and three MedSept lines (Surf&Air, Air, Hand).
What is the difference between 400 ppm and 2000 ppm?
400 ppm lines are ready to use (Home, Hand, Pet, Sport, Dairy Dip Spray); the MedSept lines are ready to use at 500–580 ppm. 2000 ppm lines are concentrates that must be diluted per the label (Food, Vet, Aqua, Agro ECA).
When should I choose a ready-to-use spray over a concentrate?
Choose a spray for fast, precise treatment of sensitive areas or small-scale use. Choose a concentrate for large-scale use (whole-farm spraying, pond treatment) to reduce shipping cost and cost per litre.
What is the difference between Bio ActiW Vet and Bio ActiW Aqua?
Vet (2000 ppm concentrate) is optimised for livestock housing surfaces and land animals. Aqua (2000 ppm concentrate) is optimised for aquatic environments, with dosing (ml/m³) designed specifically to limit stress on shrimp and fish.
Can I use Vet Concentrate in a shrimp pond?
Not recommended. Use the Aqua line, whose dosing is designed for aquatic environments.
Which lines are not yet on sale?
Home, HAND, Sport, Food and the three MedSept lines (Surf&Air, Air, Hand) are marked Coming soon while regulatory procedures are completed. Please contact us for launch updates.
Does Dairy Dip Spray need diluting?
No. Dairy Dip Spray is supplied at 400 ppm and is used directly as part of the pre- and post-milking teat hygiene routine.
III. Application technique — do & don't
How do I dilute the 2000 ppm concentrate for spray disinfection?
Dilute with clean water at the ratio stated on each product label — the ratio differs by situation (routine hygiene versus outbreak response). Always follow the instructions for the specific SKU.
What water quality is required for dilution?
Use mains or filtered water that is clear. Avoid iron- or manganese-rich borehole water and turbid water, as impurities rapidly reduce efficacy.
How long can I use it after opening?
Use within the period stated on the label. Close the cap tightly immediately after pouring to limit air exposure.
How should the product be stored?
In a cool, well-ventilated place away from direct sunlight (UV accelerates HOCl breakdown), with the cap closed.
How long do I wait after spraying?
Typically you only need to wait until surfaces are dry — roughly 15–30 minutes depending on conditions — before the treated area can be used again.
Do I need to rinse with water afterwards?
For most routine applications, no: the product self-degrades and leaves no meaningful residue. For direct food-contact surfaces, follow the specific instructions on the label.
Can Bio ActiW be mixed with other chemicals?
No. Do not mix with alcohol (reduces activity), ammonia (forms harmful chloramine gas), other acids (can release dangerous chlorine gas), or soap and detergents (reduce efficacy). Wash with soap, rinse, then apply Bio ActiW.
Should I make the dilution stronger "to be safe"?
No — it wastes product without a corresponding gain in efficacy.
How can I verify the concentration after dilution?
Use free-chlorine test strips or a dedicated ORP (oxidation-reduction potential) meter.
IV. Confidence & commercial value
It smells slightly of chlorine — is it toxic?
The odour is mild and dissipates quickly, unlike the persistent pungency of some other chemicals. Safety should be judged from the SDS and test documentation, not from smell alone.
Without a strong smell, how do I know it works?
Antimicrobial efficacy is measured scientifically (log reduction in test reports), not by the strength of the odour.
Why is it more expensive than bleach or chloramine B?
The purchase price may be higher, but consider total cost of use: less equipment corrosion, fewer respiratory issues in livestock, and greater safety for the people applying it.
Unbranded products also claim to be HOCl — why choose Bio ActiW?
HOCl quality depends heavily on production technology and quality control. Products of unclear origin may contain impurities and lose activity quickly. Bio ActiW verifies concentration and pH on every production batch.
Can microorganisms develop resistance over long-term use?
Because the mechanism is physical oxidation rather than an antibiotic pathway, the likelihood of microbial adaptation is considered far lower than for many antimicrobial actives.
Does it replace veterinary medicine or antibiotics?
No. The product supports prevention by reducing environmental pathogen load — it does not replace treatment once an animal is ill. Always consult a veterinarian.
Is it corrosive to metal equipment?
At near-neutral pH, corrosivity is considered substantially lower than that of bleach or strong acid solutions.
Does Bio ActiW help reduce livestock housing odour?
Yes. It helps reduce odour-producing bacteria (associated with H₂S and NH₃), contributing to lower ammonia and sulphide odours in animal housing.
How do I request a quote or become a distributor?
Leave your details via the form on the Contact page or call +84 902 700 787. Bio ActiW operates a regional distributor model (North / Central / South Vietnam).
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