Ozone works with bacteria and viruses by oxidizing and destroying their biomolecules, resulting in the death of the bacteria and viruses. The biological and chemical mechanisms of this process and how sterilization is achieved through this process are explained in detail below:
Effect on bacteria:
Contact and entry into bacterial cells: Ozone enters bacterial cells or adheres to bacterial surfaces.
Oxidation of lipids and proteins: Once ozone enters bacteria, the free oxygen atoms in it react with oxidative reactions with lipids (fat molecules) and proteins in the bacterial cell membrane.
Damage to cell membranes: Oxidized lipids can damage the integrity of bacterial cell membranes, causing disruptions in the exchange of materials inside and outside the cell, while preventing further bacterial growth and division.
Affects protein function: Oxidized proteins can interfere with important biochemical processes within bacteria, such as enzyme activity and metabolic pathways. This prevents the bacteria from functioning properly.
This process causes the physiological functions of the bacteria to be damaged, and the bacteria are ultimately unable to maintain their own survival, leading to death.
Effect on viruses:
Entering the host cell: The virus first needs to enter the host cell, usually by invading the host cell, such as attaching to the host cell surface and further entering the cell.
Oxidation of viral RNA or DNA: Once ozone enters the host cell, the free oxygen atoms may oxidize with the virus's genetic material (RNA or DNA).
Destruction of genetic material: Oxidation can cause damage and destruction of viral genetic material, disrupting the replication and life cycle of the virus.
Affects viral proteins: In addition, oxidation may also affect the protein structure and function of the virus, preventing the assembly and release of the virus.
This process interferes with the life cycle of the virus, reduces its ability to replicate and spread, and ultimately leads to the inactivation of the virus.
Sterilization process:
The oxidation effect of ozone is not only effective against bacteria and viruses, but also has similar effects on other microorganisms and pollutants. Therefore, ozone can be used for sterilization, which is the killing or removal of all microorganisms in a target area or item.
During the sterilization process, it is usually necessary to ensure that ozone fully contacts and covers all target areas or items to ensure that both microorganisms and viruses are effectively oxidized.
This process is often used in water treatment, wastewater treatment, food processing and other fields to ensure the hygiene and safety of water, food and other items.
In short, ozone kills microorganisms and viruses by oxidizing and destroying their biomolecules. This process damages the physiological functions of microorganisms and viruses, ultimately leading to their death. This oxidation is a highly effective disinfection method that can be used to ensure the hygiene and safety of water, air, food and other items.
