What is Ozone?

Ozone (O3) is a triatomic molecule, consisting of three oxygen atoms. It is a powerful oxidising agent and is used extensively as a disinfectant in water treatment processes. In the context of disinfecting water, ozone works by breaking down the cell walls of bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens, effectively inactivating or killing them. This process enhances the quality and safety of water by significantly reducing or eliminating microbial contaminants. Ozone disinfection is favoured for its efficiency in eliminating a broad spectrum of microorganisms, including those resistant to other forms of chemical disinfection. Unlike some chemical treatments, ozone rapidly decomposes back into oxygen (O2), leaving no harmful residual chemicals in the water. This characteristic makes it an environmentally friendly option for water treatment, ensuring that water remains safe for human consumption and other uses without introducing additional toxic substances.

Monitoring Ozone in Water Treatment

Monitoring ozone levels in water treatment processes is crucial to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the disinfection process. Ozone, being a potent oxidant, is capable of inactivating a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms, making it an invaluable tool in producing safe drinking water. The key to its successful application lies in maintaining optimal concentrations: sufficient to achieve thorough disinfection, yet avoiding excess that could lead to by-products harmful to human health or the environment. Monitoring involves measuring both the concentration of ozone introduced into the water and the residual ozone present after a specified contact time. This ensures that the applied ozone dose is effective for disinfection while minimising any potential for forming undesirable ozonation by-products, such as bromate. Advanced analytical techniques, including ozone-specific electrodes, UV spectrophotometry, and the indigo method, are utilised for accurate and real-time monitoring of ozone levels. This continuous oversight is vital not only for compliance with regulatory standards but also for optimising the efficiency of water treatment operations, thereby safeguarding public health while preserving the quality of treated water.

Swan Analytical Water Ozone Analysers