You shouldn’t mix citrus based cleaners and ozone. Here is why! The solvent in citrus based cleaner is called d-limonene. It is an excellent solvent for biological stains and is relatively safe to use. However, when you add ozone, some bad things can happen.
When d-limonene (a terpene commonly found in citrus oils) mixes with ozone (O₃), a chemical reaction occurs that produces several potentially harmful byproducts, especially in indoor environments. Here’s what happens:
🔬 The Reaction:
D-limonene + ozone → secondary organic aerosols (SOAs) + volatile organic compounds (VOCs) + aldehydes
Main products:
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Formaldehyde – A known carcinogen and respiratory irritant.
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Acetone
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Organic acids
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Secondary Organic Aerosols (SOAs) – Fine particulate matter that can affect lung function.
💨 Why This Happens:
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D-limonene is an unsaturated hydrocarbon (contains double bonds), making it highly reactive with ozone, a strong oxidizer.
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The reaction initiates free radical chemistry that breaks down d-limonene into smaller compounds.
🏠 Indoor Air Quality Impact:
This reaction can happen in:
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Homes with air purifiers that generate ozone
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Cleaning with citrus-based products in ozone-rich environments
Result: Dangerous compounds are created indoors, where they can accumulate and affect occupants, particularly those with asthma or other respiratory conditions.
⚠️ Health Risks:
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Eye, nose, and throat irritation
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Worsening of asthma or respiratory diseases
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Long-term exposure to formaldehyde: cancer risk
🧪 Summary:
Mixing d-limonene and ozone causes a complex oxidation reaction that forms toxic byproducts, notably formaldehyde and fine particles, which degrade indoor air quality and pose health risks.