Ozone Systems

Ozone is a naturally occurring compound in which three atoms of oxygen are combined to form the ozone molecule (O3). Elemental oxygen most commonly exists as two oxygen atoms (O2).

Ozone is formed when energy from ultraviolet (UV) light or electrical discharge breaks the O2 bonds, forming single oxygen atoms which recombine with O2 molecules to form ozone. Ozone is created naturally in the stratosphere by short wavelength ultraviolet radiation. Ozone is most commonly produced for industrial use by high voltage electrical discharge (corona discharge). Pacific Ozone systems generate ozone by corona discharge.

Ozone is an unstable molecule due to the weak bonds holding the third oxygen atom. This instability makes ozone a naturally powerful oxidizing and disinfecting agent. Oxidation occurs when ozone molecules come in contact with oxidizable substances, including microorganisms (viruses, molds, and bacteria), as well as organic and inorganic compounds (metal ions, plastics and rubbers).

Oxidation is the interaction between oxygen molecules and the substances they may contact, from metal to living tissue. Oxidation produces chemical changes characterized by the loss of electrons. In ozone oxidation reactions, the unstable third oxygen atom is transferred, with a large release of energy, from ozone to the molecule being oxidized. The transfer of energy in oxidation causes the outer membranes of microorganisms to rupture. As ozone molecules enter lysed microorganisms, genetic material (DNA and RNA) is oxidized and destroyed. Organic molecules most often disintegrate as a result of oxidation, destroying their biological activity. Oxidation by ozone typically hydrolyzes inorganic molecules, causing them to become insoluble, and facilitating removal by filtration.

Ozone is generally used as an anti-bacterial agent. Ozone is very effective at oxidizing and destroying organic and other compounds. Here are some typical applications for ozone:

Agriculture/ Produce/Food Processing

Fresh produce/fruit washing

Produce preservation

Equipment and surface sanitization

High-purity process water

Cooling tower water

Wine

Barrel washing

Equipment and surface sanitization

Tank clean-in-place (CIP)

Beverage

Product water preparation

Clean-in-place (CIP)

Tank, equipment sanitization

Bottle and cap washing

Bottled water preservation

Industrial

High-purity process water

Cooling tower water

Equipment and surface sanitization

Clean-in-place

Laundry

Improve disinfection

Cost savings: water, energy, labor

Cleaner, softer laundry

Extend linen life

Marine

Potable water/effluent, treatment

Process water

Ballast water, macrofoulant eradication

Seafood processing

System sanitization

Aquaculture

Incoming water treatment

Wastewater management/disinfection

System sanitization

Product Processing

Groundwater and Soil Remediation

Degradation and neutralization of organic contaminants

Oxygenation of target zone (accelerates bioremediation)

No. The use of industrial ozone does not contribute to atmospheric ozone or ground level pollution. Ozone is a naturally occurring molecule and is not a man-made pollutant, nor is it synonymous with smog, which — a common misconception. A small portion of atmospheric ozone descends to the Earth’s surface. In addition, some industrial pollutants near the Earth’s surface in combination with the sun’s radiation will cause ozone to form. Since ozone can be easily measured, it has become a surrogate indicator for pollution. Ozone near the Earth’s surface can cause breathing problems for persons with sensitive respiratory systems.

Ozone quickly and naturally decomposes back to oxygen; therefore ozone is considered environmentally friendly.

Ozone is safe when used properly. In fact, the FDA has approved ozone for drinking water treatment and food processing.

Yes. The USDA has determined that organic foods that are processed with ozone may be labeled as organic. Similarly, ozone may be used in the processing of kosher foods.

Please see the material safety data sheet.

Please see the ozone material compatibility document.

We utilize a patented floating plate technology to produce ozone. In addition, our generators are air-cooled which results in less maintenance, lower power consumption, and ease of installation.