The so-called pickle jar method for the production of CDS (chlorine dioxide solution) is frequently described on the Internet - but the results often deviate significantly from expectations.

👉 In this article you will learn:

• How the pickle jar method works
• what results are actually achieved
• Why concentration and quality often fluctuate greatly
• whereupon CDS is really important

We recreated and tested the method and analyzed the results.

💧 CDS 3000 ppm - View Swiss quality

What is the pickle jar method?

The pickle jar method is based on the reaction of sodium chlorite (NaClO₂) with hydrochloric acid (HCl). This produces chlorine dioxide gas, which then dissolves in water.

Fabrics used:

• Sodium chlorite (PubChem CID: 24451, CAS: 7758-19-2)
• Hydrochloric acid (PubChem CID: 313, CAS: 7647-01-0)

Our test: Result of the pickle jar method

We have checked various variants circulating on the Internet.

Result of our tests:

• Concentration: only approx. 0.07 % instead of 0.3 %
• pH value: approximately neutral (around 7)
• Strong deviations from frequently promised values

This corresponds to only about a quarter of the concentration often expected.

Why concentration often remains significantly lower

Simple DIY methods often result in losses:

• Gas escapes uncontrolled
• Fluctuating reaction conditions
• Temperature and pressure change the result
• the absorption of the gas into the water remains limited

Many online instructions are also incomplete or very simplified.

Typical problems of the pickle jar method

• imprecise concentration
• Strongly fluctuating results
• uncontrolled reaction conditions
• Losses due to gas leakage
• Difficult reproducibility

Our optimized variant ("mychem.ch-Art")

We have specifically improved and standardized the method.

• approx. 0.32 % CDS reachable
• Better reproducibility
• more controlled conditions

But even here there are still restrictions:

• pH value remains slightly acidic
• Materials are not permanently resistant
• Side reactions remain possible

Why professional production is crucial

For high-quality CDS several factors are important:

• Controlled gas formation
• Precise concentration control
• Suitable materials
• clean water
• Controlled processes

This is why MYCHEM relies on a controlled gas injection process.

Safety aspects

Chlorine dioxide gas is produced during production.

Important note: Only work in well ventilated areas and do not inhale gas.

Conclusion: Does the pickle jar method really work?

Yes - but only with significant restrictions.

• basically possible for simple experiments
• Only conditionally suitable for defined quality
• strong fluctuations are frequent

If you value consistent quality and traceable concentration, professionally produced CDS much better served.

💧 CDS View 3000 ppm

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