That chlorine smell at the pool? It’s pee
Summary
Science Friday host Flora Lixman interviews Purdue University professor Dr. Ernest Blatchley about the chemistry of swimming pools. They discuss how chlorine reacts with human waste to form trichloramine, a respiratory irritant responsible for the strong "chlorine" smell. Blatchley explains his research on air stripping systems used at the Paris Olympics to remove these volatile compounds from indoor pool air, improving safety for swimmers and spectators.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: MathWorks, NYSCI, and Poster House
Introduction to pool chemistry and guest Dr. Blatchley
Pools as chemical reactors and swimmer hygiene
Chlorine reactions and the dangers of trichloramine
Health effects on skin and respiratory system
Alternatives to chlorine and improving swimmer habits
Technologies to reduce trichloramine and Paris Olympics
How air stripping systems work in pool gutters
Success of the system and outdoor vs indoor pools
Dr. Blatchley's personal swimming experience and outro
Listen ad-free on Castria