The pH of Ozonated Distilled Water: Understanding Its Properties and Applications

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The pH of ozonated distilled water is a crucial factor in understanding its properties and applications. This blog post will explore the typical pH range, factors influencing the pH, the efficacy of ozonated water in controlling microorganisms, and the effects on stored strawberries. Additionally, we’ll discuss the contaminants and chemicals present, the process of balancing the pH, and the history and DIY aspects of ozonated distilled water.

Typical pH Range of Ozonated Distilled Water

The typical pH range of ozonated distilled water when exposed to the atmosphere is generally acidic, typically below 7. This is because CO2 from the atmosphere dissolves into the water, forming carbonic acid, which lowers the pH.

Factors Influencing pH

ph of ozonated distilled water

The pH of ozonated distilled water can be influenced by various factors, including:

  1. Temperature: Higher temperatures can accelerate the decomposition of ozone, leading to changes in pH.
  2. pH Levels: Ozonated water can be prepared at different pH levels, such as pH 3.0, 6.5, and 8.7, by using citric acid or sodium bicarbonate.
  3. Environmental Conditions: Exposure to UV light, dissolved matter, and other environmental factors can affect the decomposition of ozone and the resulting pH.

Efficacy in Controlling Microorganisms

The pH of ozonated distilled water plays a significant role in its efficacy in controlling microorganisms. For example, a study found that the pH of the water influenced the effectiveness of ozonated water in controlling aerobic mesophiles and molds and yeasts on stored strawberries.

Effect on Stored Strawberries

Ozonated distilled water can help maintain the quality of stored strawberries by retarding fresh mass losses and preserving the pH, soluble solids, titratable acidity, SS/TA ratio, and color variables.

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Contaminants and Chemicals Present

Ozonated distilled water can contain contaminants and chemicals such as:

  • Carbonic Acid: Formed when CO2 from the atmosphere dissolves into the water.
  • OH-Radicals: Produced during the decomposition of ozone, which can react with other substances in the water.
  • Dissolved Matter: Substances like citric acid or sodium bicarbonate used to adjust the pH can be present in the water.

Balancing pH

To balance the pH of ozonated distilled water, you can use substances like citric acid or sodium bicarbonate to adjust the pH to the desired level.

Helpful pH Quantity to Consume

The ideal pH for consumption is generally considered to be between 6 and 8.5, which is close to the natural pH of the human body. However, the specific pH requirements may vary depending on the intended use of the ozonated distilled water.

History

Ozone has been used for water treatment and disinfection since the late 19th century. Its use in agriculture and food processing has been explored more recently, particularly in the context of post-harvest treatment of fruits and vegetables.

DIY and Home Remedies

For DIY users, ozonated distilled water can be prepared at home using an ozone generator and adjusting the pH levels as needed. It is essential to follow proper safety protocols when handling ozone and to ensure the water is stored and handled correctly to maintain its efficacy.

References

  1. Lenntech. (n.d.). Ozone Decomposition. Retrieved from https://www.lenntech.com/library/ozone/decomposition/ozone-decomposition.htm
  2. SciELO. (n.d.). Influence of pH on the Efficacy of Ozonated Water to Control Microorganisms and Its Effect on the Quality of Stored Strawberries. Retrieved from https://www.scielo.br/j/cagro/a/FcqCXCNwYFLrXhr5DSNjmwC/?lang=en
  3. Physics Van. (2016). Ozonated Distilled Water. Retrieved from https://van.physics.illinois.edu/ask/listing/42035
  4. ResearchGate. (n.d.). Influence of pH on the Efficacy of Ozonated Water to Control Microorganisms and Its Effect on the Quality of Stored Strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa Duch). Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/321846123_Influence_of_pH_on_the_efficacy_of_ozonated_water_to_control_microorganisms_and_its_effect_on_the_quality_of_stored_strawberries_Fragaria_x_ananassa_Duch
  5. HomebrewTalk. (2014). My Commercially Bottled Distilled Water pH Didn’t Measure 7. Retrieved from https://www.homebrewtalk.com/threads/my-commercially-bottled-distilled-water-ph-didnt-measure-7-is-that-typical.505865/.
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