Abstract: A method for optimizing a concentration of ozone produced by a corona discharge ozone generator. The method includes applying a DC voltage to a primary winding of a transformer of the ozone generator at a driving frequency of about half the resonant frequency of a tank circuit of the ozone generator. The DC voltage may also be applied to and withdrawn from the primary winding at a duty cycle of about 50%. When a desired driving frequency is selected, the method includes selecting a corona cell having a capacitance that, along with the secondary inductance of the transformer of the ozone generator, produces a resonant frequency of about twice the selected driving frequency. Ozone generators and improved ozone generators that are configured to produce ozone in accordance with the disclosed methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention includes a method of reducing the microbial population on food in a container. The method generally involves the application of both a surfactant and ozone containing wash liquor to the food. The method includes introducing a wash liquor into the container, thus contacting the food with the wash liquor and wetting the food. A surfactant is then added to the wash liquor. This surfactant containing wash liquor is then allowed to contact the food for a period of time. Next, a combination of ozone gas, oxygen and/or air is mixed into the wash liquor to form an ozonated wash liquor. This ozonated wash liquor then remains in contact with the food for a period of time.

Abstract: A method for optimizing a concentration of ozone produced by a corona discharge ozone generator. The method includes applying a DC voltage to a primary winding of a transformer of the ozone generator at a driving frequency of about half the resonant frequency of a tank circuit of the ozone generator. The DC voltage may also be applied to and withdrawn from the primary winding at a duty cycle of about 50%. When a desired driving frequency is selected, the method includes selecting a corona cell having a capacitance that, along with the secondary inductance of the transformer of the ozone generator, produces a resonant frequency of about twice the selected driving frequency. Ozone generators and improved ozone generators that are configured to produce ozone in accordance with the disclosed methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The invention includes a method of reducing the microbial population on a item comprising, in whole or in part, porous material. The method includes contacting the porous portion of the item with both a surfactant and gaseous ozone, preferably in a sealed container.

Abstract: The invention includes a method of reducing the microbial population on food in a container. The method generally involves the application of both a surfactant and ozone containing wash liquor to the food. The method includes introducing a wash liquor into the container, thus contacting the food with the wash liquor and wetting the food. A surfactant is then added to the wash liquor. This surfactant containing wash liquor is then allowed to contact the food for a period of time. Next, a combination of ozone gas, oxygen and/or air is mixed into the wash liquor to form an ozonated wash liquor. This ozonated wash liquor then remains in contact with the food for a period of time.