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Ozone devices in aquatics - natural sterilization


Ozone devices are a practical alternative to UV devices in aquariums and reduce germs and bacteria in the aquarium.

Ozone devices in aquariums – natural sterilizers

Ozone and ultraviolet (UV) radiation are two very powerful natural sterilizers. Ozone is a gas consisting of three oxygen atoms, whereas the oxygen we breathe consists of two oxygen atoms. Its chemical structure makes ozone highly reactive, which is why it is such an effective sterilizer. In aquariums, an ozonator, also known as an ozone generator, can be used to maximize water quality. In this type of system, air is pumped into the ozonator unit, where, in most modern models, it is subjected to an electrical high-voltage discharge that breaks down the oxygen molecules. When the molecules recombine, some of the ozone is produced. The gas then enters a protein skimmer chamber or ozone reactor, where it mixes with aquarium water. The effluent from the chamber is then filtered through activated carbon to remove any residual ozone before the water returns to the aquarium. Ozone is found in the ozone layer, a highly concentrated layer in the atmosphere. In fact, the filter created by the ozone layer is vital, as UV radiation is known to be dangerous to all living things because it can cause mutations in DNA. This is why the ozone hole has become such a popular topic—the reduction in ozone concentration, especially at the poles (where the ozone is already thinner), increases UV radiation in the biosphere, leading to damage to our skin and coral reefs, among other things. However, the damage caused by UV rays is important for aquarists because they have enormous power that can be used to destroy unwanted microorganisms.