The effects of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) on sludge properties and membrane permeate flux were studied using a pressurized stirred ultrafiltration cell. Oxidation with NaOCl resulted in sludge solubilization and decreased sludge floc sizes. The sludge dissolution constant was estimated at 0.3 +/- 0.1 mg sludge mg(-1) free chlorine under testing conditions. The increases in soluble chemical oxygen demand and total carbohydrate concentration in centrifuged supernatant were less than proportional to chemical dosage. Membrane permeate fluxes were much lower as a result of oxidation. Soluble biopolymers accounted for more than 76% of the total hydraulic resistance during ultrafiltration of oxidized sludge. By contrast, both the settleable sludge flocs and the soluble biopolymers were important contributors to the hydraulic resistance of sludge before oxidation. Given the benefits of NaOCl solution for membrane cleaning and its negative impact on sludge properties, the quantity of NaOCl solution used for maintenance cleaning of membranes should be optimized. (C) 2004 Society of Chemical Industry.