Ozonation

Ozonation is a water treatment process that destroys bacteria and other microorganisms through an infusion of ozone, a gas produced by subjecting oxygen molecules to high electrical voltages.

Ozone benefits

Ozonation destroys Cryptosporidium, bacteria and other naturally-occurring organisms. Ozonation also can reduce the formation of trihalomethanes (THMs), which result from the interaction of chlorine and naturally-occurring organic material in the source water.

Ozonation processes at the Alfred Merritt Smith Treatment Facility and River Mountains Treatment Facility went online in 2003. Ozone is a very strong disinfectant, but it does not remain in water very long. For that reason, chlorine is still added to protect the water while it is in the distribution system.