The Hazards of High-Concentration Ozone
Risks to Human Health
Ozone is a strong oxidizing gas. When ozone concentration exceeds safe exposure limits, it can negatively affect the human body in several ways.
Respiratory System Damage
High ozone exposure can irritate the respiratory tract and mucous membranes, leading to symptoms such as:
Coughing
Sore throat
Chest tightness
Breathing discomfort
Long-term exposure may contribute to chronic bronchitis, aggravated asthma, and reduced lung function. Children, elderly individuals, and workers in ozone-related industries are particularly vulnerable.
Cardiovascular Effects
Ozone can also trigger inflammatory reactions within the body, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and stroke, especially for people with pre-existing heart conditions.
Skin and Eye Irritation
Excessive ozone exposure may accelerate skin aging, damage the skin barrier, and irritate the eyes, causing redness and discomfort.
Environmental Impact of Ozone Pollution
Damage to Plants and Agriculture
Ground-level ozone interferes with photosynthesis in plants, causing:
Leaf yellowing
Premature defoliation
Reduced crop yields
Declining forest health
Research in some European regions has shown crop yield losses of 10%–25% due to ozone pollution.
Accelerated Aging of Materials
Because of its strong oxidation capability, ozone rapidly degrades many industrial materials, including:
Rubber
Plastics
Textiles
Sealing components
This significantly shortens equipment service life and increases maintenance costs.
Contribution to Climate Change
Ground-level ozone is also considered a greenhouse gas. Elevated ozone concentrations contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming.
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