The Science of ONA




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  • Terpenes have anti-bacterial, antifungal and antiseptic properties.
  • Terpenes have oxygenating properties (increases oxygen level).
  • When diffused into the environment, terpenes have been found to reduce airborne chemicals and bacteria.




There are three mechanisms of action that can occur, based on the chemical and physical natures of each terpene and active ingredient versus the organic and inorganic volatile compounds.

Adsorption — All VOCs and odorous compounds have a solubility factor in ONA active ingredients. This solubility will allow the VOC compound to solubilize itself in the presence of ONA, relative to the chemistry of the emission, temperature, pH, and pressure of the environment.


Absorption — The active molecules in ONA will attract or come into contact with low molecular weight or volatile compounds (VOC’s). These VOC’s will enter and bond with the ONA active ingredients to eliminate odors.



Chemical Reaction (The Pairs Theory2) — This involves the permanent bonding of the odorous molecule (VOC) and the ONA active ingredients reactive sites. This mechanism transforms the pollutant in its basic properties. As a result, odor disappears.



The affinity of the different odorous compounds (VOCs) with ONA is directly relative to their chemical composition and physical state. For example, a hydrogen sulfite can have a great affinity for certain sites of the ONA active ingredient. It can either bond electrostatically, or react in comparison to its relative solubility. This means different components will be neutralized by one mechanism compared to the other two, or a blend of each of the three. The bottom line is ONA is not a masking agent but offers a safe, effective way to permanently eliminate odors and emissions.


1 Isoprene Rule, Wallach 1887