Urinal deodorizer block
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deodorize restroom urinals.[1]
They are placed above the urinal drain, often in the confines of a small plastic device called a urinal screen that prevents loss down the drain when they dissolve down to a small size.
Chemistry
The chemicals composing the block vary. The original formulations were based upon
sublime into the air, creating a sickly-sweet odor that has anti-microbial effects.[2]
Many urinal blocks are now para-dichlorobenzene and
quaternary ammonium compounds).[1]
, which offer some active cleaning and antibacterial efficacy. The new water-soluble blocks improve the cleaning of the pipes which helps to reduce odor. Some recent formulations also include bacterial spores which, coupled with the surfactant cleaning power, can more completely get rid of odors and blockages caused by the buildup of solids in the traps and pipes. Some manufacturers claim that these "biological blocks" can enable completely no-flush waterless urinals to be fitted.
Some urinal blocks also have enzymes added to help digest buildup within pipes.[citation needed]
Autoflush[1] and/or ice are sometimes used as alternatives.[3]
See also
References
- ^ a b c "Fact Sheet on Respiratory Hazards and Restroom Deodorant Blocks". INFORM. 2009.
- ISBN 3527306730.
- ^ Upton, Chad (31 July 2013). "Why Bars Put Ice in the Urinals". Broken Secrets. Retrieved 31 July 2013.