The IOA was formed in 1973 to serve as the focal point for technology transfer and developments on ozone-related issues. For this purpose, IOA has served as the central , worldwide gathering and disseminating point on ozone information, bringing together scientists, engineers, systems designers, technologists, equipment manufacturers, and end users to share their experiences and research data on ozone and other related oxygen compounds.

  The IOA is a not-for-profit educational association which performs its information-sharing functions through sponsorship of international symposia, seminars, publications, and the development of personal relationships among ozone specialists throughout the world. Towards achieving this goal, IOA has conducted a wide range of programs covering such fields as:

    - Generation of ozone from air or oxygen by corona discharge or by ionizing radiation
    - Mass transfer of ozone into water and wastewater
    - Chemical reactions of ozone for commercial organic syntheses
    - Drinking water treatment for disinfection and for oxidation of pollutants
    - Ozone treatment for preservation of fruits and for food processing
    - Stratospheric reactions of ozone
    - Development of reliable analytical procedures for ozone
    - Materials of construction for ozone use
    - Ozone safety and health effects

Membership participation in IOA programs is conducted through one of three regional groups. All members in North, Central and South America receive their membership services from and belong to the Pan American Group [PAG].

All members in other countries of the World, excluding Japan, receive their membership services from and belong to the European African Australasian Group [EA3G].

The Nippon Islands Group [NIG] handles membership and services for Japan.

Membership in the IOA is open to any individual or corporation having a direct or indirect interest in the development and advancement of ozone technology. Specific membership classifications and dues [subscriptions] investment schedules are provided on the official membership application form. For PAG, the IOA is tax-exempt organization under Internal Revenue Service Code 501 (c) (3). All contributions of membership donations are tax deductible. For members of other countries, reference should be made to National codes for tax practices.