Summary
Exclusion Zone (EZ) Water, also known as the "fourth phase of water," is a structured form of water that forms adjacent to hydrophilic surfaces. Research by Prof. Gerald H. Pollack and colleagues has shown that EZ water differs physically from regular liquid water: it carries a negative charge, repels particles, exhibits increased molecular order, and can store energy from light—especially infrared. These properties may play a role in biological processes such as hydration, energy transport, and cellular communication. While the phenomenon has been experimentally confirmed, some interpretations—such as the chemical formula H₃O₂—remain a subject of scientific debate.
Introduction
Water is essential to life, but our conventional understanding has long been limited to three phases: solid, liquid, and gas. The work of Gerald H. Pollack introduces a fourth phase: Exclusion Zone (EZ) Water. This phase forms near hydrophilic surfaces, including cell membranes, and exhibits unique physical and chemical characteristics.
The existence of this fourth phase carries significant implications—from understanding biological energy dynamics to developing new technologies in energy storage, filtration, and health enhancement.
About Prof. Gerald H. Pollack
Gerald H. Pollack, PhD, is Professor of Bioengineering at the University of Washington in Seattle. He is internationally recognized as a pioneer in the study of water structure in biological systems and the originator of the EZ water concept.
Key highlights:
Author of influential books such as Cells, Gels and the Engines of Life and The Fourth Phase of Water: Beyond Solid, Liquid, and Vapor.
Published over 200 peer-reviewed scientific articles and authored 8 books.
Research focus: the unique properties of EZ water, including molecular ordering, viscosity, electrical potential, and light absorption.
Director of the Institute for Venture Science (IVS), which funds groundbreaking research that challenges conventional scientific assumptions.
His core findings have been confirmed by independent research groups around the world.
Although the interpretation of EZ water as H₃O₂ remains controversial, his experimental work is widely regarded as robust. His publication record underscores his long-standing influence in the field.
Recommended viewing: Pollack explains EZ water in his TEDx talk:
Water, Cells, and Life
Scientific Basis
What is EZ water?
EZ water forms next to hydrophilic surfaces (such as certain polymers, gels, or cell membranes), creating a zone that excludes particles, solutes, and dyes.
Key properties:
Particle exclusion: Microscopic particles are repelled from the EZ zone.
Negative charge: EZ water is negatively charged, while the surrounding bulk water carries a positive (proton-rich) charge.
Molecular ordering: Water molecules in the EZ are more ordered, similar to a liquid crystal structure.
Light sensitivity: Infrared light expands the EZ and serves as an energy source.
Viscosity & optical properties: EZ water is more viscous and has a different refractive index compared to bulk water.
Experimental Observations
Dozens of lab experiments have shown that EZ water:
Is visible under a microscope as a clear zone next to hydrophilic materials (e.g., Nafion).
Differs physically and chemically from bulk water (confirmed via NMR, IR, and optical measurements).
Acts like a microscopic battery through charge separation.
Can store and release energy, potentially influencing biological processes.
Scientific Debate
While the EZ phenomenon is widely confirmed, interpreting it as a completely new phase of water (H₃O₂) is not universally accepted. Critics point to:
Alternative explanations such as diffusiophoresis, surface electricity, or convection currents.
The fact that EZ structures form locally near surfaces and do not replace all body water.
Insufficient evidence for direct health-related claims.
Applications & Implications
Potential domains:
Biology & Medicine: Improved understanding of cellular function, hydration, and energy transport.
Technology: Novel methods for filtration, desalination, and energy storage.
Health & Wellness: Potential roles in light therapy, hydration, and nutrition—but clinical proof is still lacking.
Conclusion
EZ water is a tangible physical phenomenon with unique properties and broad potential applications. The discoveries of Pollack and his colleagues challenge the conventional view of water and open new lines of inquiry in biology, chemistry, and technology. For health-related applications, further rigorous research is essential.
Sources
Pollack, G.H., The Fourth Phase of Water, Ebner & Sons, 2013
Zheng, J.M., et al., Adv. Colloid Interface Sci., 127:19–27 (2006)
Chai, B., et al., J. Phys. Chem. B, 112:2242–2247 (2008)
Presentation: The Fourth Phase of Water: A Central Role in Health, Kobe, 2016
TEDx Talk by Gerald Pollack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-T7tCMUDXU
