HOW DOES OZONE DISINFECT
As we have mentioned before, ozone is a biocide that works similarly to chlorine and so it is used in a similar manner.
Through direct contact with ozone the wall of the microorganism’s cell becomes oxidized and destroyed. When the wall is compromised in this manner cellular components leak outside the cell which causes destruction of the living part. This causes the living part of the cell to be destroyed.
During the process, ozone (O3) splits into oxygen (O2) and single oxygen atom (O), which is lost during the reaction with the microorganism’s cell fluids, O3 –> O2 + O. Hence making ozone the very best surface disinfectant.
HOW DOES OZONE EFFECTS
VIRUSES
Ozone destroys viruses by diffusing through the protein coat into the nucleic acid core, where it damages viral RNA (ribonucleic acid), a nucleic acid present in all living cells. Its principal role is to act as a messenger carrying instructions from DNA for controlling the synthesis of proteins, although in some viruses RNA rather than DNA carries the genetic information.
At higher concentrations, ozone destroys the virus’ exterior protein shell so that both DNA or RNA structures are affected.
SOME VIRUSES that are susceptible to ozone are Hepatitis A, infectious hepatitis, influenza, norovirus.
HOW DOES OZONE EFFECTS
BACTERIA
Ozone interferes with bacterial cell metabolism, probably by inhibiting the enzymatic control system. A sufficient amount of ozone breaks through the cell membrane, destroying the bacteria.
HOW DOES OZONE EFFECTS
FUNGUS AND MOLD
It is believed that ozone destroys fungi and mold by diffusing through the fungal wall and into the cytoplasm, disrupting the organelles that direct cell function.
HOW DOES OZONE EFFECTS
CYSTS
Parasitic cysts are of special concern in drinking water derived from surface water sources because they are unaffected by chlorine. Ozone at proper doses will destroy cysts. Hence making ozone the very best water purifier.
NOTE
Due to the nature of the direct oxidation power of ozone there is no mechanism for pathogens to create an immunity to ozone as with other chemical disinfectants and biocides.
