Hydroxyl free radical chemistry is very different from other cleaning technologies…
Unlike ozone, atmospheric hydroxyls are safe for people, animals, plants and all sensitive materials like rubber, plastic, leather, vinyl, electronics, paper and artwork.
The Advantages of Hydroxyls
Contents can be wet while being deodorized without the risk of bleaching. Jobs can be streamlined when the contractor is able to deodorize while drying, cleaning and demoing. Both contents and structure can be treated at the same time, and as conditions permit, certain packout activities can be avoided or substantially reduced. In many cases, residents can stay in their home or businesses and remain open, while avoiding costly business interruption.
Hydroxyl machines have proven to be effective for almost any odor. They are commonly used for treating odors caused by fire and smoke, water losses, mold and VOCs. This technology is regularly deployed on losses ranging from large big box retail and industrial fires to residential Category 2 and 3 water losses. Hydroxyls have also proven to be very effective for odors that are difficult for ozone or other deodorization methods, such as those caused by protein fires, fuel oil, biohazard and sulfur compounds.
The overall safety and simplicity of the hydroxyl technology creates a lot of flexibility for contractors. Machines can be moved around while contractors work. They can be moved to more difficult areas and can even be left behind for lingering odors. Difficult items can be tented for some containment and a greater concentration of hydroxyls if necessary.
All contents can be treated with no risk of damage. This provides contractors with the opportunity to restore all items including electronics, artwork and important papers or collectables of significant retail or sentimental value.
Hydroxyl applications are a gentle and safe form of deodorization. As a general rule of thumb, hydroxyls generators cover approximately 1,000 to 1,500 square feet with normal 10 to 15 foot ceilings when treating moderate to severe odors. There are many factors that can affect this, such as the severity of odor, layout of the structure, whether or not contents are on-site, how long you have to complete the job, etc. Some deodorization can be done within only a few hours, but most applications take three to four days. Large industrial hydroxyl generators are also available for very large losses and have been successfully used on losses of several million cubic feet and more.
Just as in nature, very low concentrations of ozone are necessarily produced as a by-product of the UV irradiation process. Because of this, reasonable safety precautions are required for the most powerful machines on the market when used in very small and unventilated spaces. When using these machines, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety guidelines. The hydroxyl technology is relatively simple to use on small and large losses. Basic air movement principles are applicable, however proper training is recommended to maximize the use of this new and exciting technology.
