What is an ozone generator and what types of ozone generator catalysts are there?

An ozone generator is a device that converts oxygen into ozone (O₃) through a specific technology. It is mainly used in air purification, sterilization and disinfection. It mainly generates ozone by ionizing oxygen molecules and uses its strong oxidizing property to decompose harmful substances in the air or microorganisms in food. After ozone is decomposed into oxygen atoms, it combines with oxygen molecules to form ozone molecules, thereby achieving the purpose of purification.
Ozone generators are mainly used in indoor air purification, drinking water and medical disinfection. So ozone is indeed a good helper for disinfection and sterilization. However, if the ozone concentration in the air exceeds the standard, it will have a great impact on humans and the environment. Ozone is a strong oxidant. High concentrations of ozone can irritate the respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, vomiting, and dizziness. In severe cases, it may cause a decline in lung function. Long-term exposure to ozone may also increase the risk of respiratory diseases.
Because the presence of high concentrations of ozone is harmful to human health, there are ozone generator catalysts. Ozone catalysts can be divided into homogeneous catalysts and heterogeneous catalysts according to phase state; they can be divided into supported catalysts and impregnated catalysts according to common types.
Homogeneous catalysts use metal ions in solution as the main active ingredient. They have high catalytic activity and a very clear mechanism of action. They are suitable for ozone decomposition reactions, but metal ions are easily affected by concentration fluctuations.
Heterogeneous catalysts include precious metal catalysts and metal oxide catalysts. Precious metal catalysts include metals such as titanium, copper, zinc, iron, nickel, manganese, and their alloys. The catalytic activity and stability are improved through supported or impregnated processes, but their prices are very expensive, which is relatively costly for enterprises. Metal oxide catalysts such as titanium dioxide (TiO₂), aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃), and manganese dioxide (MnO₂) have catalytic activity and thermal stability, and are often used for ozone decomposition and organic oxidation.
Supported catalysts refer to metals or metal oxides supported on carriers (such as ceramsite, activated carbon, silicon aluminum, etc.) to enhance catalytic efficiency and corrosion resistance, such as aluminum-based supported catalysts.
Impregnated catalysts are made by impregnating carrier particles with catalyst solution. The catalytic components are attached to the surface, but are easily lost due to friction.

Ozone generator catalysts are mainly heterogeneous metals, and performance is improved through supported or impregnated processes. Therefore, catalytic efficiency, stability and cost factors should be considered comprehensively when choosing.

author: Hazel
date: 2025-06-26