The Use of Hypochlorous Acid in Chemistry: Bibliometric Analysis of Scientific Literature

Abstract

Historically, chemicals such as alcohols, aldehydes, chlorinated compounds and hypochlorous acid have been used to eliminate or inactivate infectious agents. Recognizing the potential of bibliometrics as a robust tool for analyzing scientific literature, we conducted a bibliometric study on research related to the application of hypochlorous acid in infections. This analysis aimed to identify emerging trends, reveal common patterns, examine collaborations and networks, and predict future research directions. Methods: Using the Scopus database, we searched for documents published between 1982 and 2024 with the keywords “hypochlorous acid,” “infection,” and “use.” Data analysis was conducted in R-Studio 2024.09.0 Build 375, employing a machine learning-based bibliometric approach through the bibliometrix R package. Author relevance was assessed by analyzing the number and fractional contribution of publications, while Lotka's law evaluated author productivity. Bradford's law was used to pinpoint the core journals covering the topic. The thematic landscape was classified into niche themes, emerging themes, engine themes, and core themes. Results: A total of 574 documents were identified, with original articles accounting for the majority (74%). The annual growth rate of publications was calculated at 5.08%. Overall, 424 journals published more than one document. Most of the corresponding authors work in the United States. Neutrophils, animals and hydrogen peroxide are emerging themes, while hypochlorous acid, human, and article represent the basic themes. Conclusions/Applications for Practice: The interests of infection specialists have diversified over time and metabolism, reactive oxygen metabolites, anti-infective agents have been added.