Electrolytic Hypochlorous Acid Generated In Situ: An Active Solution for Advanced Hygiene and Microbiological Control

Hypochlorous acid, HClO/HOCl, occupies a singular position at the intersection of biology, chemistry and public health. In the human body, it participates in innate defence: neutrophils generate it within the phagolysosome through a biochemical pathway involving NADPH oxidase, reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide, chloride and myeloperoxidase. In the technological domain, it can be obtained through controlled electrolysis of water and salts, generating aqueous solutions with oxidising potential and broad antimicrobial relevance. This technical-divulgative pre-paper proposes a cross-sector interpretation of electrolytic hypochlorous acid generated in situ as an active solution for advanced hygiene and microbiological control. Its relevance is not limited to surface disinfection. It extends to dentistry, dental laboratories, topical care, facility hygiene, food handling, veterinary practice, agriculture, post-harvest handling, households and the reduction of certain surface pesticide residues. The available evidence describes activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi and biofilms, as well as growing interest in oral biofilm, mucosa, periodontology, wounds and professional hygiene protocols. The central hypothesis is that electrolytic HClO translates a strategy of innate immunity into a practical tool for advanced hygiene: a locally generated solution, produced from water, salt and electricity, capable of responding to contemporary needs for microbiological control, reduction of contaminant load and operational sustainability. Its value lies both in its chemistry and in its logistics: it not only acts, but can be produced where it is needed. This document does not replace technical data sheets, regulatory authorisations, official healthcare protocols or specific validations by product, concentration, sector, country or intended use. The applications discussed should always be interpreted according to formulation, concentration, pH, free available chlorine, contact time, surface, organic matter, applicable regulation and authorised purpose.