A compound containing the chemical element chlorine is called chloride. One of the most common and well-known chlorides is sodium chloride (table salt) with the chemical formula NaCl.

There are other important chlorides such as:

  • Lithium chloride (LiCl)
  • Potassium chloride (KCl)
  • Iron (II) chloride (FeCl2)
  • Iron (III) chloride (FeCl3)
  • Aluminum chloride (AlCl3)
In water treatment , sodium chloride is often used for ion exchange . When water softening, sodium chloride is necessary for regeneration so that the accumulated calcium and magnesium ions can be flushed out of the system. The two containers for water softening and the salt supply are separated. During regeneration , the common salt is flushed out of the softening system so that it cannot get into the drinking water . This ensures smooth water treatment .

Chloride in the body

Chloride is important in the body as an electrolyte. Together with other electrolytes, chloride in the body ensures that an electrical voltage is created between the inside and outside of the cell. This electrical voltage is used in the body to ensure that signals are transmitted between the cells in the body, for example between nerve and muscle cells.

The chloride also serves to regulate water distribution and the acid-base balance in the body.

Chloride is usually absorbed via table salt (sodium chloride). Nowadays, we usually consume too much salt through high-salt foods, which usually covers our daily needs. Chloride is excreted from the body via the kidneys. Chloride is also excreted when we sweat, so you should drink a lot of water, especially in warm weather or during exercise.