Ozone Generator

In 1896, Tesla patented his ozone generator under U.S. Patent 568,177, a corona discharge device using high-voltage electrical arcs to convert oxygen into ozone for purification. Drawing from his high-frequency experiments, the apparatus featured charged metal plates or coils creating silent discharges in ambient air, breaking O2 molecules to form O3 without chemicals. Tesla founded the Tesla Ozone Company in 1900 to produce ozonated olive oil for medical uses, marketing it as a germicide and air freshener. This was the first portable U.S. ozone generator, emphasizing efficiency and portability for water treatment and sterilization. He integrated it with his Tesla coils for enhanced production.

The invention's impact grew during World War I for wound disinfection, influencing modern ozone therapy in dentistry and water purification. Despite early skepticism over safety, Tesla's design advanced environmental technologies, reducing reliance on chlorine. Today, ozone generators are used in air purifiers, pools, and food processing, with regulations ensuring safe levels. Tesla's work bridged electricity and chemistry, promoting health applications and sustainable sanitation.