What temperature is required during hyperchlorination to achieve crypto CT inactivation?

The correct answer emphasizes that achieving effective inactivation of Cryptosporidium (crypto) through hyperchlorination requires maintaining a temperature of at least 77°F. This temperature is critical because, at lower temperatures, chlorine's efficacy diminishes significantly, meaning that higher concentrations or longer exposure times would be necessary to achieve the same level of inactivation.

The rationale is based on scientific studies that show increasing temperatures enhance the disinfecting power of chlorine. Specifically, for protozoan pathogens like Cryptosporidium, the 77°F threshold is particularly important, as it provides a suitable balance of temperature and chlorine concentration needed for effective disinfection.

When temperatures exceed this minimum, the inactivation rate increases, making chlorine more effective against resistant organisms like Cryptosporidium. Therefore, maintaining water temperature at or above 77°F during disinfection processes is a critical factor in ensuring public health safety related to waterborne pathogens.

Understanding these temperature thresholds helps inform best practices in water treatment facilities, where controlling the environmental conditions can lead to improved health outcomes.