TECHNOLOGY

What is ozone?

Ozone is an allotropic variety of oxygen, also called triatomic oxygen, because this molecule is formed by three oxygen atoms. Therefore, it is a natural substance, present in nature in the ozonosphere, between 10 and 50 km above the earth’s surface.

How does ozone act?

Ozone is an oxidant and technically oxidation is a chemical reaction by which electrons are stolen. In this case, ozone actively takes electrons from metal-based minerals and also from organic materials and therefore from microorganisms. In this way it oxidizes their cell wall, causing its rupture and the cells die by lysis.

Is Ozone a Biocide?

Yes, according to the ECHA (European Chemical Agency) definition, as it was declared more than 10 years ago. It is a biocide of the so-called “in situ” production, i.e., it cannot be stored and therefore cannot be transported, the devices must produce ozone at the time and place where they are going to be used.

Is ozone dangerous?

Ozone is basically dangerous by inhalation, as it is a product that can cause headache, throat pain or respiratory distress. No serious cases have been reported in the last 150 years since ozone was discovered. According to the International Chemical Data Sheets (IPCS); it is NOT classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or anything similar. The authorized exposures are: 0.2 ppm or 0.4 mg/m³ of ozone up to two hours duration.

In USA, ozone is recognized as a secondary food additive and recognized as a GRAS (safe substance) by the FDA. In France, it is recognized by ANSES as an Auxiliary for food industry.

Is ozone dissolved in water dangerous?

Ozone gas is always integrated in the water inside the MNS-R equipment and therefore, at the output of the equipment, we obtain; water treated with ozone with a minimum ozone residual <0.1 mg/liter. According to European regulations; EU Regulation 1272/2008 CLP, regarding to classification, labeling and packaging of chemical substances and mixtures; any biocide whose concentration in water is less than 1% is not classifiable and does not present any risk.

In USA, ozone is recognized as a secondary food additive and recognized as a GRAS (safe substance) by the FDA. In France, it is recognized by ANSES as an Auxiliary for food industry.