Lesser-Known Industries and Sectors Where Ozone Gas Is Used

Lesser-Known Industries and Sectors Where Ozone Gas Is Used

Ozone gas is widely recognized for its role in disinfection, odor removal, and water treatment. However, the scope of ozone technology extends far beyond these commonly known applications. Thanks to its strong oxidation capacity, environmentally friendly nature, and ability to leave no chemical residues, ozone provides powerful and cost-efficient solutions across a wide range of industries.

In this article, we explore lesser-known industrial sectors where ozone gas is surprisingly effective.


1. Bakery and Baked Goods Industry

Few people know that ozone gas plays an important role in large-scale bakery operations.

Key applications:

  • Sanitizing dough processing equipment

  • Sterilizing air in production and baking areas

  • Controlling odor and mold in fermentation rooms

Because ozone leaves no chemical residue, it improves food safety while reducing the need for harsh cleaning chemicals.


2. Tobacco Industry

The tobacco processing sector benefits greatly from ozone technology, although this usage is not widely known.

Ozone applications in tobacco facilities:

  • Eliminating mold and fungal spores on tobacco leaves

  • Odor control in storage areas

  • Improving indoor air quality during processing

Ozone helps maintain product quality and reduces spoilage risks.


3. Oil and Gas Industry

The oil and gas sector is one of the most interesting and less-discussed areas where ozone gas is used.

Typical applications include:

  • Oxidation of drilling mud

  • Breaking down hydrocarbons

  • Odor and gas control in processing areas

  • Treating contaminated wastewater

Its high oxidation potential makes ozone extremely effective in reducing environmental loads.


4. Cosmetics and Personal Care Manufacturing

Hygiene is critical in cosmetics production, and ozone offers a safe, residue-free solution.

Where ozone is used:

  • Producing purified/ozonated process water

  • Sterilizing ventilation ducts

  • Sanitizing filling and packaging lines

This minimizes contamination risk and supports cleaner production.


5. Medical Waste Treatment

Ozone gas is a powerful tool in the health sector for safe waste management.

Applications:

  • Pre-sterilization of infectious medical waste

  • Reducing biological hazards

  • Sterilizing wastewater from medical facilities

Ozone provides effective disinfection without the need for aggressive chemicals.


6. Electronics and Microchip Manufacturing 

In the semiconductor and electronics industries, ozone technology is essential for precision cleaning.

Ozone applications:

  • Removing organic contaminants from wafer surfaces

  • Sterilizing cleanroom air

  • Reducing solvent usage in fine cleaning processes

Because ozone leaves no residues, it is ideal for ultra-sensitive manufacturing environments.


7. Pulp and Paper Industry 

Paper and cellulose production typically involves intensive bleaching and chemical use. Ozone provides a greener alternative.

Benefits and applications:

  • Replacing chlorine-based bleaching agents

  • Reducing COD/BOD levels in wastewater

  • Cleaning cellulose fibers

  • Lowering chemical consumption and costs

This makes the entire production process more sustainable.


8. Mining and Mineral Processing 

Ozone may not be the first thing that comes to mind in mining, but its effectiveness is impressive.

Uses include:

  • Oxidizing metal ions

  • Breaking down cyanide-containing waste

  • Reducing odors and harmful gases

  • Improving sludge separation processes

This helps minimize environmental impact and supports cleaner mining operations.


9. Aquarium and Aquaculture Systems 

From home aquariums to large commercial operations, ozone is increasingly being adopted worldwide.

Ozone’s benefits:

  • Increasing water clarity

  • Reducing organic load

  • Decreasing fish disease outbreaks

  • Enhancing protein skimmer performance

Although not widely known in Turkey, this is a standard technology in many international facilities.


10. Automotive Manufacturing and Parts Washing Lines 

Ozone usage is growing in automotive factories—not only for odor removal but for industrial processing.

Common applications:

  • Cleaning metal and plastic parts without heavy chemicals

  • Pre-treatment before painting

  • Reducing microbial load in washing lines

  • Treating water in recycling systems

This makes ozone an excellent fit for sustainable and efficient automotive production.


Conclusion: Ozone Technology Is Far More Versatile Than Commonly Believed

As shown, ozone gas is not limited to well-known sectors. It plays a transformative role in industries ranging from tobacco and petrochemical production to microchip manufacturing and automotive processing. Its residue-free, powerful, environmentally friendly nature makes it a prime candidate for even wider adoption in the future.