What is Ozone?Ozone (O3) is an unstable gas that has a very short half-life. It reacts, then quickly disappears. The word “ozone” is derived from the Greek word for “smell” and forms naturally in the upper atmosphere where it is a vital gas that protects us from harmful UV radiation. We know it as the ozone layer.
Ozone exists when oxygen (O2) is exposed to ultraviolet light, or exposed to high voltages of lightning. That fresh, clean smell that we notice after a rain storm, is ozone. It provides a natural, clean disinfectant that can also be used in a controlled environment used in water and air treatment applications.
As the oxygen molecules (O2) are exposed to these energy fields, they dissociate and split, forming atoms (O1). These wandering oxygen atoms then recombine with other (O2) molecules in the air stream, forming ozone (O3). Ozone is nothing more than another molecular form of oxygen.
Because ozone is highly reactive, it readily oxidizes (breaks down) organic matter. When ozone encounters another compound, one oxygen atom will break away, attach itself to the compound, and oxidize (clean or purify) it.
Ozone BenefitsOzone is an oxidizer and disinfectant commercially available for water and air treatment. It has is approved by the FDA, USDA, and the EPA as antimicrobial disinfectants. Ozone systems require only cold water, reduces the need for chemicals, and are made on-site, on-demand.
With ClearWater Tech’s proven efficiency and reliable ozone systems, you can simplify the handling and storage of chemicals and lower your costs.
It is a more innovative alternative to salt, chlorine, and other chemicals. It can oxidize and reduce microorganisms such as bacteria, fungus, and viruses in water faster than chlorine and faster than bromine. Ozone reduces odor and color. It can also be used for the flocculation of organic material, which simplifies mechanical filtration. It is generated at the point of use and then reverts back to oxygen.
How is Ozone used for Water & Air Purification?When used correctly, ozone is very effective for many applications, especially at high concentrations. It must be made on-site and used immediately. Ozone generators produce ozone first by compressing ambient air, then separating it and concentrating the oxygen. The oxygen runs through a high-voltage device, called a corona, essentially “lightning in a bottle.” The generator then “injects” the gaseous ozone into the water using negative pressure or a vacuum.
There are two Methods to Generate Ozone:
1. Corona Discharge (CD)
2. Ultraviolet (UV) LightCorona discharge generators are much more sophisticated than UV and can generate much higher levels of ozone. Ozone passes a stream of dry air or oxygen through a high voltage field called a corona discharge, where oxygen in the stream converts to ozone. Ozone generates at the point of application.
UV ozone generators use a light source that generates a narrow band of ultraviolet light. Standard UV ozone generators are less expensive and produce ozone with a concentration of about 0.5% or lower. UV also requires the air (oxygen) to be exposed to the UV source for a more extended amount of time. UV generators are less effective for use in situations that deal with rapidly moving air or water streams.
Ozone SafetyA properly designed and installed ozone system will not expose anyone to irritating ozone concentrations at low levels. However, ozone, like any other potent oxidizing agent, can be harmful if not handled properly.