Kathleen Cvitkovic

A top priority in today’s environment for most of the population is using safe cleaning solutions for everyday needs. As a society, we are moving away from harsh chemical cleaners and are looking at greener, healthier and more sustainableways to clean to eliminate germs faster and more effectively. Phasing out harsh chemical cleaners can begin with looking at more benign cleaning solutions that can be used in their place. Focusing on providing reduced-chemistry alternatives to cleaning such as aqueous ozone can help us become more sustainable as a society. Utilizing ozone as a key cleaning ingredient is not a new technique and is by no means new to the industry. In fact, the technology has existed for over 100 years and has been used for cleaning swimming pools for the Olympics and larger applications. Only recently has this alternative technology become realistic for uses in smaller venues like cleaning common work areas, classrooms and residence halls. However, it is sometimes difficult to comprehend how this cleaning solution is capable of providing a powerful cleaning solution without using typical harsh chemicals as we are so used to doing over the years. That is why it is important to truly understand how and why sustainable cleaning solutions are the best option and how ozone plays a key role in completing this equation. Ride The Lightning In simple terms, ozone (O3) is created naturally when sunlight or lightning adds an extra oxygen atom to the oxygen (O2) molecules in the air. Some of this ozone is then infused into rain drops, resulting in aqueous ozone. Aqueous ozone can safely be used as a replacement for traditional chemical cleaners and kills all known food and human pathogens when used as directed. Ozone is sometimes misunderstood, but has been used in a multitude of ways to effectively clean. Ozone is a powerful sanitizer that, when used as directed, effectively deodorizes, cleans and destroys mold, allergens bacteria and viruses. It is made up of three oxygen atoms and has be en used for water treatment, food sanitation and especially as a powerful disinfecting solution in many industries. Aqueous ozone is a water-based ozone cleaner, which makes it a unique alternative. Tap water is saturated with ozone, which eliminates pathogens and contaminants through oxidization. Aqueous ozone generating units create this cleaning solution by filtering oxygen molecules from the air, passing them through an electrical field that turns it into ozone and then infuses the ozone into water. When used as directed, aqueous ozoneeliminates germs, odors, stains, mold, mildew and other contaminants on any item or surface before changing safely back into water and oxygen. It is environmentally more effective than many alternatives, as it reverts to water and oxygen after cleaning. This option can be used on all types of surfaces and is considered a multi-purpose cleaner. Environmentally-friendly Efficacy Aqueous ozone is created when an extra oxygen atom is introduced to an oxygen molecule and particles of water. This combination creates a highly effective cleaning agent that breaks down dirt, grease and other contaminants in the same way as toxic cleaners, but naturally. When used as a cleaning solution, aqueous ozone is a broad range antimicrobial agent that works faster and more effectively against pathogens than chlorine bleach and hydrogen peroxide — and without fumes and toxic residues like dioxins and tri-chloramines. Because of its toxin-free sanitizing action, aqueous ozone is considered safe and environmentally friendly. The manner in which aqueous ozone works can be shown in four simple steps: 1. Oxygen from the air is charged and safely turned into ozone before being infused into ordinary tap water 2. The ozone is attracted to germs, stains and bacteria 3. Harmless to people, the ozone quickly attacks and eliminates contaminants with which it comes in contact 4. Only pure oxygen and water remain after the ozone cleans and sanitizes. Ozone is one of the most powerful cleaners available that can be used in a multitude of ways and in numerous industries. Ozone is an extremely effective, safe and economical method of reducing common bacteria, fungi, molds, mildew and viruses on a host of surfaces in all types of facilities. Ozone’s powerful oxidizing action quickly reduces trapped chemical residues as well as harmful byproducts. Some other benefits of using aqueous ozone to clean and disinfect include: No chemical residue Scent-free cleaning Powerful antimicrobial properties No need to purchase harmful and expensive chemicals Less harsh on metal, wood, carpet and upholstery Reduces chemical handling and storage One-time training for staff Safer cleaning option for employees Cost effective. Aqueous Ozone And Our Environment In addition to being extremely powerful as a cleaning agent, aqueous ozone is a safe and natural solution for everyday cleaning needs. Many commercial cleaners are extremely powerful, but are also very toxic and not environmentally friendly. Aqueous ozone works well as a cleaning solution while maintaining a minimal carbon footprint. Considered a more sustainable cleaning solution than chemical cleaning agents, aqueous ozone reverts back to water and oxygen molecules after a cleaning task, which can then be poured down a drain safely. In addition, this cleaning option does not leave behind unnecessary residue on cleaned surfaces, making it safer for both employees and the environment. Today, most companies are looking to incorporate sustainability into their work environment and their community. By switching from harsh chemical cleaners to a more natural and safe cleaning solution, they will be one step closer to achieving the highest standards for both their employees and their surroundings. Lightning has struck the commercial cleaning industry, and the time to harness its power is now. Other Natural Cleaning Options One proposed cleaning solution is ionized bubbles or nanobubbles — tiny gas bubbles in water from 10 to 100 nanometers in diameter. To form nanobubbles, water flows through a cell that applies a slight electrical charge. An ion exchange membrane creates positively and negatively charged nanobubble cleaning agents that are best used for glass, stainless steel and other smooth surfaces. Another natural cleaning

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Kathleen Cvitkovic

Director of Marketing for Tersano Inc.

Articles by Kathleen Cvitkovic

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