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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.
