Apparatus and methods for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of organic substances

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatus and methods for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of an organic substance. In an aspect, an apparatus for inducing an alteration or transformation in a target is provided. The apparatus includes a conduit through which a conductive target flows, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, the conduit comprising a first end, a second end, and a flow path connecting the first end and the second end; one or more containers; and one or more magnets that form a magnetic field through which the conductive target flows, the one or more magnets positioned within an interior of the conduit, each of the one or more magnets housed within a container of the one or more containers, wherein the magnetic field induces an alteration or transformation in the target.

Description

PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 Title: Apparatus and Methods for Magnetically Assisted Alteration or Transformation of Organic Substances Inventors: Jonathan Brant; Kevin Kreisler; Mike Riebel FIELD

[0001] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatus and methods for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of an organic substance. DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[0002] Removing compounds, such as naturally occurring organic compounds and synthetic organic compounds (SOCs), from drinking water is an important challenge for various industries such as the water industry. Such organic compounds are present in surface waters and groundwater and pose risks to people’s health and the environment. To date, conventional technologies have not adequately solved how to remove organic compounds from water without the use of chemical additives, physical barriers, adsorptive media, and / or oxidation processes. For example, very few membranes effectively remove organic compounds and the membranes that do work require regular maintenance and replacement. As another example, reverse osmosis (RO) has been utilized to organic compounds, but RO is energy intensive.

[0003] Alongside these concerns is the transformation of naturally occurring organic compounds to useful products. For example, sugars, starches, and cellulosic feedstocks can be converted to ethanol or other conversion products. Conventional technologies for converting such feedstocks to useful products rely on chemical inputs and are energy intensive. Overall, conventional technologies rely on physical mechanisms (such as membranes) or chemical mechanisms (such as catalysts or reagents) for removing or transforming organic compounds and synthetic organic compounds into less harmful or useful materials.

[0004] There is a need for new apparatus and methods for altering properties of organic molecules and for transforming organic molecules. SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatus and methods for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of an organic substance. Unlike conventional technologies, aspects described herein may utilize magnetic fields forPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 manipulating the properties of solvents (for example, water or an organic solvent) and solutes (for example, organic compounds, organic molecules, ions thereof, or combinations thereof, among others).

[0006] Aspects described herein may be used to generate energy. The energy generated and / or the energy involved with use of aspects described herein may be utilized to, e.g., alter a property of a substance. For example, the energy generated may enable a substance’s atomic and / or molecular properties to be altered. The alteration of the substance’s atomic and / or molecular properties may alter a mesoscale property (for example, physicochemical properties of a substance at a Newtonian scale) of the substance. The energy generated and / or the energy involved with use of aspects described herein may be utilized to transform a substance. For example, chemical bonds present in the substance may be broken by the energy generated and / or the energy involved with use of aspects described herein. Aspects described herein may, for example, be characterized as having a reduced specific energy consumption and / or reduced equipment footprint relative to conventional technologies.

[0007] In an aspect, an apparatus for inducing an alteration or transformation in a target is provided. The apparatus includes a conduit through which a conductive target flows, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, the conduit comprising a first end, a second end, and a flow path connecting the first end and the second end. The apparatus further includes one or more containers. The apparatus further includes one or more magnets that form a magnetic field through which the conductive target flows, the one or more magnets positioned within an interior of the conduit, each of the one or more magnets housed within a container of the one or more containers, the magnetic field having magnetic energy, wherein the magnetic energy induces an alteration or transformation in the target, the alteration or transformation induced in the absence of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

[0008] In another aspect is provided a method. The method includes flowing a conductive target through a conduit, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule. The method further includes exposing the conductive target to magnetic energy while flowing the conductive target through the conduit, wherein, as the conductive target is exposed to the magnetic energy, an alteration or transformation is induced in the flowing conductive target without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0009] In another aspect is provided a method. The method includes determining a magnetic energy introduced by a magnetic field on a flowing conductive fluid comprising a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, wherein the magnetic energy is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0: .The method further includes determining a magnetic energy associated with the conductive target, wherein the magnetic energy associated with the conductive target is determined by, at least, Eq.1.7: .The method further includes determining a net energy based on a comparison of ^^^and ∆^^. The method further includes determining a bond energy of a chemical bond present in the organic molecule that would be altered or transformed based on the net energy. The method further includes exposing the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target to an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the chemical bond present in the organic molecule. The method further includes altering or transforming the conductive target by the exposing the conductive fluid to the operational magnetic energy.

[0010] In another aspect is provided a method. The method includes identifying a bond energy of at least one bond present in a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule. The method further includes determining an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the at least one bond present in the organic molecule, the operational magnetic energy determined by inputs comprising: ^^^as determined by Eq.1.0; and ∆^^ as determined by Eq.1.7. The method further includes setting a source of magnetic energy to the operational magnetic energy. The method further includes exposing the conductive target to the operational magnetic energy while moving a conductive fluid relative to the source of the magnetic energy, the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target.

[0011] In another aspect is provided a method. The method includes identifying a bond energy of at least one bond present in a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule. The method further includes determining an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the at least one bond present in the organicPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 molecule, the operational magnetic energy determined by inputs comprising: ^^^as determined by Eq.1.0; and ∆^^ as determined by Eq.1.7. The method further includes setting a source of magnetic energy to the operational magnetic energy. The method further includes exposing the conductive target to the operational magnetic energy while moving the source of magnetic energy relative to a conductive fluid, the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target.

[0012] In another aspect, an apparatus for inducing an EMF in a conductive fluid is provided. The apparatus includes a conduit through which a conductive fluid flows, the conductive fluid comprising a conductive organic molecule, the conduit comprising a first end, a second end, and a flow path connecting the first end and the second end. The apparatus further includes one or more containers. The apparatus further includes one or more magnets that form a magnetic field through which the conductive fluid flows, the one or more magnets positioned within an interior of the conduit, each of the one or more magnets housed within a container of the one or more containers, wherein the magnetic field induces an EMF in a flowing conductive fluid, the induced EMF configured to induce nanobubble generation.

[0013] In another aspect is provided a method. The method includes flowing a conductive fluid through a conduit, the conductive fluid comprising a conductive organic molecule. The method further includes exposing the conductive fluid to magnetic energy while flowing the conductive fluid through the conduit, wherein, as the conductive fluid is exposed to the magnetic energy, an EMF is induced in the flowing conductive fluid without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

[0014] In another aspect is provided a method. The method includes exposing a flowing conductive fluid to magnetic energy to induce an EMF in the flowing conductive fluid, the conductive fluid comprising a conductive organic molecule, the EMF of sufficient energy to generate nanobubbles in the flowing conductive fluid, the EMF generated without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present disclosure may be understood in detail, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to aspects, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate onlyPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 exemplary aspects and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, may admit to other equally effective aspects.

[0016] FIG.1 shows a non-limiting process flow diagram of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus according to at least one aspect of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 2 shows a Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum for glucose in an electrolyte solution used in an example flow-through magnetic apparatus. (Conditions: temperature (T) = 20°C; a pH = 7.41 ± 0.03; electrical conductivity = 374 ± 2.50 µS / cm). The absorption band from about 1700 cm–1to 2400 cm–1was omitted to illustrate the significant responses of glucose to the mid-to-far IR range.

[0018] FIG. 3 shows a FTIR spectrum for urea in an electrolyte solution used in an example flow-through magnetic apparatus. (Conditions: T = 20°C, pH = 7.41 ± 0.03, and electrical conductivity + 374 ± 2.50 µS / cm). The absorption band from about 1700 cm–1to 2400 cm–1was omitted to illustrate the significant responses of glucose to the mid-to-far IR range.

[0019] FIG.4A shows non-limiting FTIR absorbance intensity data for glucose before and after passing through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus at two different Darcy velocities.

[0020] FIG. 4B shows non-limiting FTIR absorbance intensity data after recirculating the glucose solution through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus (Darcy velocity (^^^) of about 31.1 cm / sec) and after a once-through pass at a high velocity (^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec).

[0021] FIG.5A shows non-limiting nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) response data of glucose prior to passing through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus.

[0022] FIG.5B shows non-limiting NMR response data of glucose after passing through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus. (Conditions: ^^^= 31.1 cm / sec; T = 13.8°C; pH = 7).

[0023] FIG. 6 shows non-limiting matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization time-of- flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) profile data for glucose prior to and posterior to passing through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus at two different Darcy velocities. (Conditions: ^^^= 31.1 cm / sec and 46.8 cm / sec; T = 13.8°C; pH = 7.0).

[0024] FIG.7 shows non-limiting MALDI-TOF profile data for glucose dispersed in an electrolyte solution used in flow-through magnetic field experiments.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0025] FIG.8A shows non-limiting FTIR response data of urea at low and high Darcy velocities through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus. (Conditions: pH = 7.0; T = 13.8°C).

[0026] FIG. 8B shows non-limiting data for changes in Raman intensities for urea following different recirculation times through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus. (Conditions: T = 13.8°C; pH = 7). The change in Raman intensity for urea at a ^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec is also shown for comparison.

[0027] FIGS.9A and 9B shows non-limiting MALDI-TOF spectra for urea prior to and posterior to passing through an example flow-through magnetic apparatus under different flow velocities and recirculation times—^^^= 31.1 cm / sec and tloop = 20 minutes; ^^^= 31.1 cm / sec and tloop = 0 minutes; and ^^^= 46.8 cm / sec and tloop = 0 minutes. (Conditions: pH = 7.0; T = 13.8°C). tloop refers to the recirculation time through (or residence time within) the magnetic fields of the flow-through magnetic apparatus.

[0028] FIG.10 shows a ball and stick model of glutaraldehyde.

[0029] FIGS. 11A-11C show AutoCAD modeling images of a conduit of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus where the magnets are arranged in a helical pattern.

[0030] FIGS. 12A-12D show modeled hydrodynamic property data of water flowing through a conduit of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus.12A-12B show surface pressure (in Pascal) and 12C-12D show the flow behavior around the obstructions (flow velocity).

[0031] FIGS. 13A-13D are cross-sections of the modeled data shown in FIGS. 12A- 12D, illustrating the geometry (FIG. 13A), the pressure (FIG. 13B), the constant velocity surfaces (FIG.13C), and the flow lines (FIG.13D).

[0032] FIGS. 14A-14C are modeling images, showing various ways in which the magnets in a helical pattern may be oriented so as to apply magnetic fields to achieve flux squeezing or helical poles as fluid flows through the conduit of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus.

[0033] FIGS.15A-15E show modeled magnetic flux confinement / squeezing data by use of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus.

[0034] FIGS. 16A-16C show modeled data for the helical magnetic field: FIG. 16A) View of the magnets arranged in the helical pattern; FIG.16B) Constant surface plot of thePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 magnetic scalar potential in the same profile view; FIG.16C) end cut view of the magnetic field scalar potential cross-section.

[0035] Figures included herein illustrate various aspects of the disclosure. It is contemplated that elements and features of one aspect may be beneficially incorporated in other aspects without further recitation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatus and methods for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of an organic substance. The organic substance may be an electrically conductive substance. An electrically conductive substance is a substance that conducts electricity and / or has low electrical impedance. An electrically conductive substance is a substance that has electrons, conducts electricity, and / or has low electrical impedance. Hereinafter, such an electrically conductive substance is referred to as simply a “conductive substance.” The conductive substance may include a conductive fluid, a conductive target, or combinations thereof.

[0037] The term “substance” refers to any suitable state of matter such as a solid, fluid, liquid, gas, or plasma. The substance may include a molecule, a compound, an ion, or other material. The substance may be organic or inorganic. In some aspects, a substance may include a fluid, a target therein, or combinations thereof. “Organic substance” refers to an organic material, an organic molecule, an organic compound, ion thereof, or combinations thereof that may be targeted by aspects described herein for, e.g., treatment, transformation, alteration, mineralization, destruction, dissociation, dehydration, change, etc. As used herein, the term “inorganic substance” refers to an inorganic material, an inorganic molecule, an inorganic compound, ion thereof, or combinations thereof that may be targeted by aspects described herein for, e.g., treatment, transformation, alteration, mineralization, destruction, dissociation, dehydration, change, etc.

[0038] The organic substance may be present as a conductive substance and / or may be present in a conductive substance such as a conductive fluid. A conductive fluid is a fluid that has electrons, conducts electricity, and / or has low electrical impedance. For example, distilled water may be used as a conductive fluid.

[0039] Aspects described herein may be used to generate one or more sources of energy. The one or more sources of energy may be utilized to alter a property of a conductivePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 substance and / or transform a conductive substance. For example, aspects described herein may induce an electromotive force (EMF) in a conductive substance.

[0040] In some implementations, which may be combined with other implementations, a conductive substance may be made conductive with any suitably available power input. Additionally, or alternatively, conductive-enhancing constituents may be utilized. Conductive-enhancing constituents may include electrical constituents, physical constituents, chemical constituents, or combination thereof. For example, electrical constituents that are conductive-enhancing may include an application of a voltage, an application of a current, or a combination thereof. Chemical constituents that are conductive-enhancing may be present in the conductive substance and may include an electrolyte. Such chemical constituents, such as an electrolyte, may be added to the conductive substance. Physical constituents that are conductive-enhancing may include an application of ultraviolet light, an application of heat or cold (e.g., a temperature-adjusting source), a source of cavitation (for example, nanobubbles, microbubbles, a nanobubble generator, a microbubble generator, or combinations thereof), a component in the substance such as a metal, or combinations thereof. Regarding cavitation, nanobubbles may be induced to grow, oscillate, and collapse. Nanobubble, as used herein, is interchangeable with the term ultra-fine bubble as described in ISO standard – 20480-1:2017(E).

[0041] The EMF induced provides electrical energy in the form of voltage or current. Additionally, or alternatively, embodiments described herein may generate nanobubbles within the conductive substance. Nanobubbles are small gas-filled cavities of less than 1 micron, typically having diameters less than 200 nanometers (nm). Collapse of the nanobubbles generates energy and high temperatures (thermal energy). The nanobubbles may be generated by aspects described herein due to the in situ generation of voltage sufficient to dissociate molecules present in the conductive substance. For example, the voltage may dissociate hydrogen atoms from oxygen atoms present in water. The dissociated hydrogen atoms may recombine to form hydrogen gas nanobubbles in the water. In contrast to conventional approaches for producing energy, the EMF and the nanobubbles produced by operation of aspects described herein are formed without electrodes or external electrical inputs.

[0042] Generally, as a conductive substance flows through a conduit and a magnetic field of apparatus described herein, an EMF may be induced perpendicular to both the flowPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 direction of the conductive substance and the magnetic field. The induced EMF may be a function of a velocity of the conductive substance flowing through the conduit, dimensions of the conduit through which the conductive substance flows, and magnetic field interacting with the conductive substance, which may be described by the equation: ^^ = ^^ ∙ ^^ ∙ ^^,wherein: ^^ is induced EMF (a voltage), ^^ is magnetic field strength, ^^ is the velocity of the conductive substance, and ^^ is the diameter of the conduit.

[0043] The nanobubbles and EMF formed by using aspects described herein may contribute to various changes in the conductive substance, including, but not limited to, viscosity changes in the conductive substance; surface tension changes in the conductive substance; thermal dynamic changes in the conductive substance; changing conductivity of the conductive substance; thermal energy sufficient to break bonds present in the conductive substance upon nanobubble collapse; or combinations thereof.

[0044] The energy generated—including, magnetic energy, electrical energy from the induced EMF, thermal energy from the collapse of the nanobubbles, or combinations thereof—may be of sufficient energy to alter a property of the conductive substance traveling through the conduit. For example, the energy may alter an atomic property and / or a molecular property of the conductive substance (e.g., a conductive fluid and / or a conductive target therein). Such alteration in the atomic property and / or the molecular property of the conductive substance may lead to an alteration in a mesoscale (physicochemical) property of the conductive substance. For example, the inventors found that molecular bond energies of water may be increased to change its molecular geometry and energy state. These changes in turn altered intermolecular interactions between water molecules and / or intramolecular interactions within water molecules and / or intermolecular interactions between water molecules and targets (e.g., other elements / molecules) in solution. In this example, these alterations led to a decrease the water’s dynamic viscosity, and the decrease in dynamic viscosity lessened the energy required to transport the water through a given system and / or barrier such as a desalination membrane.

[0045] The energy involved with use of aspects described herein may include magnetic energy, electrical energy from the induced EMF, thermal energy from the collapse of the nanobubbles, or combinations thereof. The energy generated by use of aspects describedPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 herein includes electrical energy from the induced EMF, thermal energy from the collapse of the nanobubbles, or combinations thereof.

[0046] The energy involved with aspects described herein including may be of sufficient energy to transform the conductive substance. For example, the energy may be of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive fluid, a chemical bond of a molecule of a component (conductive target) present in the conductive fluid, or combinations thereof. Here, for example, the energy may be of sufficient energy to convert at least a portion of alpha-glucose (α-glucose) to beta-glucose (β-glucose). To convert α-glucose to β-glucose, the glycosidic bond at the anomeric carbon of the glucose molecule must be broken.

[0047] To accomplish this, and as described herein, the inventors have found equations, algorithms, and models that may be used to determine parameter(s) useful to alter one or more properties of a conductive substance or transform a conductive substance.

[0048] Unlike conventional technologies, aspects described herein may utilize magnetic fields to increase energy efficiency in a wide variety of industries. For example, and as described herein, magnetic fields may be utilized to manipulate or alter one or more molecular properties of a substance, for example, water, molecules (e.g., organic molecules), compounds (e.g., organic compounds), ions thereof, or combinations thereof. Such alteration in the molecular property(ies) of a substance may lead to an alteration in the substance’s physicochemical property(ies). For example, the inventors have found that molecular bond energies of water (as an example substance) may be increased in order to decrease the water’s viscosity, and the decrease in water’s viscosity impacts the energy required to move the water. To accomplish this, and as described herein, the inventors have found equations, algorithms, and models that may be used to determine the desired process parameter(s) useful to modify the substance’s molecular property(ies). In turn, and as aforementioned, modification of the substance’s molecular property(ies) alters the substance’s physicochemical properties. The substance’s physicochemical properties may be altered as desired for use in specific applications to meet specific objectives.

[0049] International Patent Application No. PCT / US2024 / 051781, filed October 17, 2024, entitled “Magnetically Assisted Alteration or Transformation of a Substance”, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety to the extent it is not inconsistent with the present disclosure.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0050] Aspects described herein may be utilized to treat a conductive substance. Treating a conductive substance may include exposing a conductive substance to a magnetic field such that the conductive substance is changed. Treating a substance may include altering properties of substances, transforming substances, mineralizing substances, removing substances, destroying substances, dissociating substances, dehydrating substances, or combinations thereof.

[0051] “Molecular property” includes a property that is intrinsic to a molecule such as bond length, bond energy, bond angle, spin state, energy state, or combinations thereof, among others. Alteration or transformation of a molecular property refers to a change from the ambient or normal molecular property. As used herein, the term “atomic property” includes a property that is intrinsic to an atom or ion such as a hydration shell, radius, degree of solvation, hydrated radius, or combinations thereof, among others. Alteration or transformation of an atomic property refers to a change from the ambient or normal atomic property.

[0052] “Mesoscale property” includes physicochemical properties of a conductive substance at a Newtonian scale. Such mesoscale properties may include, but are not limited to, hydrogen bonding, viscosity, dynamic viscosity, vapor pressure, permeability, solubility, density, surface tension, polarity, pH, conductivity, reactivity, thermal conductivity, enthalpy, entropy, boiling point, vapor point, or combinations thereof, among others. These properties, or magnitude of change thereof, may be different depending upon environmental conditions and may differ as a result of unique characteristics of different materials. Alteration of a mesoscale property is a change from the ambient or normal mesoscale property. Alteration of a mesoscale property of a conductive substance may be performed by transformation of the conductive substance’s atomic and / or molecular property(ies). For example, changes in energy states may result in bond angle differences of water molecules at the molecular scale as well as changes in the viscosity of the water at the Newtonian scale (mesoscale). As another example, changes in the atomic properties of ions water may result in changes to the hydration state of ions.

[0053] Equations, algorithms, and / or models described herein may be utilized to determine specific magnetic conditioning parameters and / or other process parameters which generate, or assist in generating, energy that, e.g., alters a property of the conductive substance, transforms the conductive substance, or generates a new substance. One or morePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 of these products—for example, the conductive substance having an altered property, the transformed conductive substance, or the new substance—may be useful in a downstream process. These equations, algorithms, and models may be based on experimental and / or simulated data such as molecular dynamics simulations.

[0054] “Magnetic conditioning parameters” include one or more parameters of a magnetic device or a magnetic field device, for example, apparatus 100 described herein. Magnetic conditioning parameters may include, but are not limited to: a number of magnets; strength (magnitude) of a magnetic field; a magnetic field flux; a number of magnet pairs; a size of one or more magnets; physical dimensions (e.g., a size) of the permanent magnets (if used); physical spacing and / or orientation of magnetic pairs relative to one another through the magnetic device; pole orientation (for example, a magnet may be magnetized through its thickness rather than through its edges or top / bottom); offset angle from one magnet to another; an orientation of one or more magnets relative to a separate magnet; orientation of the magnetic field(s); a source of magnetic field (e.g., permanent or electromagnetic or combination); a flux density of one or more magnets; a composition of one or more magnets (for example, neodymium, neodymium iron boron (NdFeB), samarium-cobalt, an alloy of aluminum, nickel and cobalt (AlNiCo), ceramic, or combinations thereof, among others); integration of an electromagnetic field; a magnetic field flux; or combinations thereof, among others.

[0055] Besides magnetic conditioning parameters, process parameters may be utilized to generate, or assist in generating, energy which, e.g., alters a property of the conductive substance, transforms the conductive substance, and / or generates a new substance. Process parameters may include, but are not limited to: a flow velocity of a conductive substance through a magnetic field; a diameter of a conduit in which the conductive substance travels; a cross-sectional shape of the conduit; a temperature of a conductive substance; a hydraulic pressure; exposure time of a conductive substance to a magnetic field (e.g., a residence time); or combinations thereof, among others. Magnetic conditioning parameters and process parameters may be determined by equations, algorithms, and / or models described herein.

[0056] The resistivity and / or electrical conductance of the conductive substance may also be variable. For example, conductivity of the conductive substance may be manipulated by using chemical additives to change, for example, the ionic strength of the conductivePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 substance, the acidity of the conductive substance, the alkalinity of the conductive substance, or combinations thereof.

[0057] “Transform” includes conversion of a conductive substance such as a compound, molecule, and / or ion into another, often simpler (in terms of, for example, its structure) compound, molecule, and / or ion. The term “transform” may include destroying, dissociating, mineralizing, dehydrating, and / or otherwise changing the chemical properties and / or physical properties of the conductive substance. Transformation may include a structural change and / or degradation of the conductive substance. Therefore, transformation of a conductive substance may include generating a new substance (or a product) from the conductive substance. For example, aspects described herein may be utilized for mineralizing molecules, destroying molecules, dissociating molecules, and the like. Aspects described herein may also be utilized to dehydrate ions. Dehydrating an ion means that the ion loses a portion of its hydration shell / solvation layers. Removal of these layers then may, in turn, affect the behavior of the ion, for example, solubility in water, pairing with a counter ion during precipitate / scale formation, etc.

[0058] For example, aspects described herein may be utilized for altering properties of organic molecules, transforming organic molecules, mineralizing organic molecules, destroying organic molecules, dissociating organic molecules, and the like. Aspects described herein may also be utilized to dehydrate organic ions. Dehydrating an ion means that the ion loses a portion of its hydration shell / solvation layers. Removal of these layers then can, in turn, affect the behavior of the ion, for example, solubility in water, pairing with a counter ion during precipitate / scale formation, etc.

[0059] “Target” refers to a substance, a material, a molecule, a compound, ion thereof, or combinations thereof that may be targeted by a source of magnetic energy, a magnetic device, or a magnetic system for, e.g., treatment, transformation, alteration, mineralization, destruction, dissociation, dehydration, change, etc. The target may include an organic target, an inorganic target, or both. “Organic target” refers to an organic substance, an organic material, an organic molecule, an organic compound, ion thereof, or combinations thereof that may be targeted by aspects described herein for, e.g., treatment, transformation, alteration, mineralization, destruction, dissociation, dehydration, change, etc. As used herein, the term “inorganic target” refers to an inorganic substance, an inorganic material, an inorganic molecule, an inorganic compound, ion thereof, or combinations thereof thatPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 may be targeted by aspects described herein for, e.g., treatment, transformation, alteration, mineralization, destruction, dissociation, dehydration, change, etc. The term “molecule” and “compound” are used interchangeably unless specified to the contrary or the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0060] “Mineralize” includes the conversion of the molecule to its fundamental and most simple end products. For example the mineralization end products for most organic compounds will be water, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen gas amongst others. “Dissociate” includes conversion of a molecule into separate smaller atoms, ions, or molecules. Dissociation may be reversible or irreversible. Dissociation need not result in the formation of the simple end products and can instead include any number of daughter products from the parent compound.

[0061] Aspects described herein may utilize magnets such as permanent magnets that are arranged in a flow-through tube. The arrangement may create a multi-directional magnetic field. This field may be integrated with, for example, an electromagnetic wave generator by which electromagnetic waves are propagated through the flow-through tube and through the multi-directional magnetic field(s). These fields and waves may impart energy on the media (for example, fluid) and / or solute (organic molecules and / or ions thereof) that is passing through them. The magnitude of this magnetic energy(ies) may be a function of, for example, media properties (e.g., temperature, composition), velocity through the system, field / wave properties (strength, field gradient, number of fields, wavelength, wave form), combinations thereof, among other parameters.

[0062] Although various aspects are described herein with reference to aqueous fluids, including liquids and gases, it is contemplated that aspects described herein may be used with other fluids such as organic fluids, e.g., alcohols, hydrocarbons, among others.

[0063] Aspects described herein generally relate to apparatus for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of a conductive substance. A non-limiting process flow diagram for a flow-through magnetic apparatus 100 is shown in FIG.1. The apparatus 100 may be utilized with methods described herein, though any suitable apparatus with any suitable configuration are contemplated. Apparatus 100 may be utilized as the magnetic field system described herein.

[0064] The apparatus 100 may generate one or more sources of energy. The one or more sources of energy may be used to alter a conductive substance’s properties and / or transformPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 a conductive substance. For example, the apparatus 100 includes one or more magnets for generating magnetic energy further described below. The magnetic energy may be utilized to alter or transform, or assist in altering or transforming, a conductive substance (e.g., a fluid, a target therein, or combinations thereof). The magnetic energy may be utilized to generate, or to assist in generating, a new substance from the conductive substance. For example, aspects described herein may be utilized to convert α-glucose to β-glucose.

[0065] Additionally, or alternatively, the apparatus 100 may induce an EMF which provides electrical energy in the form of voltage or current. Additionally, or alternatively, when the conductive substance includes a conductive fluid, the apparatus 100 may generate nanobubbles within the conductive fluid, and subsequent collapse of the nanobubbles generates energy which may be in the form of thermal energy.

[0066] The apparatus 100 may include one or more conduits 101a-101c (collectively, conduits 101) through which a conductive substance passes through. Conduit 101 may be referred to herein as a pipe or other fluid passage. The conduits 101 may have any suitable dimensions and may have any suitable shape including, but not limited to, circular, oval, square, or rectangular. The conduits 101 may be made of, or coated with, any suitable material. For example, the conduits 101 may be made of, or coated with, a material that does not react with the conductive substance, such as stainless steel.

[0067] The conduits 101 may include one, two, or more layers, or “pipe-in-pipe” types of configurations. For example, the pipe-in-pipe configuration may include a pipe to block or reflect the magnetic field for safety and operational efficiency. Although three conduits 101 are shown, one conduit, two conduits, or more than three conduits may be utilized.

[0068] The apparatus further includes one or more magnets (a single magnet or an array of magnets) and one or more containers 102 housing the one or more magnets. The one or more magnets are adapted to form a magnetic field through which the conductive substance passes through. Together, the conduits 101, the one or more magnets, and the one or more containers 102 comprise at least a portion a flow-through magnetic field device 104.

[0069] The one or more magnets within the containers may be positioned within an interior of the conduits 101. Optionally, one or more magnets may be positioned outside of, or external to, the conduits 101.

[0070] The containers 102 protect the magnet(s) from the environment in the interior of the conduit 101. For example, the containers 102 protect the magnet(s) from the conductivePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 substance present in the conduit 101. In the absence of this protection, the magnets may become damaged and lose their magnetic flux density. The containers 102 may be made of, or coated with, any suitable material such as a material that does not react with the conductive substance, such as stainless steel. The container 102 may help adjust the magnetic field between the magnets. Optionally, each container 102 may include multiple magnets with different field vectors. The design of the magnetic field may include a complex magnetic field such as a “Halbach Array” design that directs the magnetic field to specific regions of the conduits 101. Generally, a Halbach array is an arrangement of magnets that enhances the magnetic field on one side of the array while cancelling the field to zero or near zero on the other side of the array.

[0071] Each of the one or more magnets may be, independently, a permanent magnet. Additionally, or alternatively, at least one of the one or more magnets may include or be implemented as an electromagnet. Permanent magnets are magnets made from a material that is magnetized and creates its own magnetic field. Electromagnets are types of magnets in which the magnetic field is produced by an electric current.

[0072] When the one or more magnets includes a permanent magnet, the permanent magnet may have any suitable composition. For example, the permanent magnet may include neodymium (Nd), neodymium iron boron (NdFeB), samarium cobalt (SmCo), aluminum nickel cobalt (AlNiCo), ceramic, ferrite, or combinations thereof.

[0073] The shapes of the one or more magnets may be any suitable shape including, but not limited to, rod, rectangular, square, pyramidal, or irregular shaped. The one or more containers 102 may also be of any suitable shape to house the magnets including, but not limited to, rod, rectangular, square, pyramidal, or irregular shaped. The shape of the containers 102 may affect the flow dynamics of the conductive substance. In some aspects, which may be combined with other aspects, the one or more magnets and their containers 102 provide for a high intensity magnetic field perpendicular to the flow of the conductive substance within the conduit. The north and south poles of the one or more magnets may be on the ends or the faces of the magnets, such as the faces of the magnets.

[0074] When the apparatus 100 includes an array of magnets, the array of magnets may have varied orientations, may be suitably spaced apart from one another, may be located at any suitable location of the conduit 101, and may be at any suitable angle with respect to another magnet. The one or more magnets may be arranged in a helical pattern (at anyPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 suitable angular rotation in degrees between adjacent magnets) along the flow path of the conduits 101.

[0075] Each of the one or more magnets may have, independently, any suitable field strength, such as a magnetic field strength of about 0.1 Tesla (T) or more, about 10 T or less, or combinations thereof, such as in a range from about 0.1 T to about 10 T, such as from about 0.5 T to about 5 T, such as from about 1 T to about 3 T. As a non-limiting example, the one or more magnets may include a permanent neodymium magnet, for example, a N45 Grade NdFeB magnet having a magnetic field strength of about 1.35 T. Other grades of NdFeB magnets are contemplated.

[0076] The magnetic field energy from the one or more magnets makes up at least a portion of the energy that alters a property of the conductive substance, transforms the conductive substance, and / or generates a new substance from the conductive substance. The magnetic energy may also be utilized to generate other forms of energy including electrical energy (in units of electron-volts (eV)) induced by the magnetic energy in the presence of a moving conductive substance. This may include, but is not limited to, magneticfield effects offlowing charged particles through the conduit at high velocities; generation of voltage and current potential magneticfield effect offlowing charged particles through at high velocities; generation of voltage and current potential. The electrical energy produced, at least in part, by the magnetic energy, may be of sufficient energy (a voltage) to generate nanobubbles by breaking chemical bonds present in a conductive substance.

[0077] In some aspects, which may be combined with other aspects, the conduits 101, one or more magnets, and containers 102, may be configured to enhance fluid dynamics, increase turbulence, increase ion mobility, or combinations thereof within the conduits 101. For example, the one or more magnets may be adapted to enhance fluid dynamics, increase turbulence, increase ion mobility, or combinations thereof within the conduit.

[0078] The one or more magnets inside the conduit in combination with the containers 102 may serve various functions including, but not limited to, the following: change the dynamic velocity of the conductive substance within the apparatus 100; provide for “pulsing” of the voltage so as to generate higher voltage peaks; and / or provide mixing and turbulence within the apparatus 100.

[0079] The one or more magnets may be configured to generate any suitable magnetic field configuration. Suitable magnetic field configurations may include a unidirectionalPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 magnetic field configuration or a multi-directional magnetic field configuration. The multi- directional magnetic field configuration may have a regular pattern (e.g., a change in the magnetic field direction according to a regularly spaced helical pattern, such as the same angular rotation between adjacent magnets spaced evenly along a conduit) or a more irregular pattern (e.g., a more randomized or non-continuous change in magnetic field directions, such as different angular rotations between adjacent magnets along a conduit).

[0080] In a non-limiting example, each of the conduits 101 may include 72 magnets with a centerline spacing of about 6.8 cm. The containers 102, and magnets therein, may be offset from one another forming a double helix shape through the conduits 101 to generate a multi-directional magnetic field configuration. The multi-directional magnetic field configuration may prevent particles in the conduit 101 from moving in only one direction from which unidirectional effects would stem. This non-limiting design may result in non- unidirectional consistent spin alterations for the conductive substance (conductive fluid and / or conductive target therein), which may maximize, or at least increase, the magnetic energy that is gained by the conductive fluid and / or target therein from the magnetic fields. Unidirectional magnetic fields, on the other hand, result in a singular directional magnetic field gradient, which may reduce the magnetic energy experienced by a given particle. It is contemplated that unidirectional magnetic fields may be utilized if desired.

[0081] Each of the conduits 101 may include a first end 131 (influent side), a second end 132 (effluent side), and a flow path 133 through which a conductive substance flows. Although FIG. 1 shows only the conduit 101a to include a first end, a second end, and a flow path, each of the conduits 101 includes a first end, a second end, and a flow path. The first end 131 may include one or more inlets (only one inlet is shown) and the second end 132 may include one or more outlets (only one outlets is shown). The inlets and outlets may be adapted to receive the same conductive substance or different conductive substance. In FIG. 1, the inlets are shown as 120a-120c, and the outlets are shown as 121a-121c. A conductive substance may be introduced through the first end and enter the flow path, and exit the second end of the conduits 101.

[0082] A first inlet of the one or more inlets may be adapted to receive a “fresh” conductive substance. Fresh conductive substance refers to a conductive substance that has not been exposed to magnetic energy emitted by a conduit 101 described herein. A second inlet of the one or more inlets may be adapted to receive a “recirculated” conductivePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 substance. Recirculated conductive substance refers to a conductive substance that has been exposed to magnetic energy (a magnetic field) emitted by the one or more magnets described herein. Additionally, or alternatively, a single inlet may be adapted to receive a fresh conductive substance, a recirculated conductive substance, or combinations thereof. That is, apparatus of the present disclosure may be utilized for treating a conductive substance one or more times.

[0083] The apparatus 100 may include a feed reservoir 110 that contains feed to be flowed through the conduits 101. The feed reservoir 110 may contain the conductive substance. The feed reservoir may be coupled to the first end (influent side) of the conduit 101a. The feed may be drawn from feed reservoir 110 by a flow-regulating mechanism (e.g., pump 114) via line L1. The pump 114 pumps conductive substance through the conduits 101. The velocity of the conductive substance may be controlled using pump 114 or other flow-regulating mechanisms to enhance interaction between the conductive substance and the magnetic field. A valve, such as three-way valve V1, may couple the feed reservoir to the rest of the apparatus 100. If desired, the apparatus 100 may include a reservoir 112. The reservoir 112 may contain chemicals, for example, a dechlorinating agent, which may be added to the feed. The reservoir 112 may be coupled to the three-way valve V1 via a pump 116 and a line L3.

[0084] The apparatus 100 may include a three-way valve V2 which is used for permitting a conductive substance to enter the conduits 101. Three-way valve V2 may also be utilized to collect or sample the influent flow, via line 113a, entering the conduit 101a for investigation. The apparatus 100 may include a three-way valve V3 which may be used to collect or sample effluent flow, via line 113b, exiting the conduit 101c.

[0085] The apparatus 100 may include one or more inline sensors (for example, two inline sensors 105a, 105b are shown). Inline sensor 105a is located along line L1. Inline sensor 105b is located along line L5. The inline sensors may be utilized for measuring various parameters such as flow rate, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen concentration, or combinations thereof in the influent to, and effluent from, the conduits 101.

[0086] The apparatus 100 may include a drain 118 coupled to the second end of the conduit 101c by a line L5. The drain 118 is utilized to collect at least a portion of the effluentPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 exiting the conduits 101. Although not shown, lines L3 and L4 may have a valve for collecting sample such that influent and effluent flows from each of the three conduits 101.

[0087] Optionally, the apparatus 100 may include a selective membrane (not shown). The selective membrane may be downstream of the flow path from the magnetic device, e.g., downstream of the conduits 101. Useful membranes may include reverse-osmosis (RO) membranes, nanofiltration (NF) membranes, forward osmosis (FO) membranes, proton exchange membranes or combinations thereof, among others. Example commercially available RO membranes include SW30HR (high rejection seawater desalination RO membrane), ACM5 (low-energy brackish water desalination membrane), and ACM1 (high salt rejection brackish water desalination membrane).

[0088] In operation, as the conductive substance (e.g., a conductive target, a conductive fluid, or combinations thereof) flows through the conduit and the magnetic field, the conductive substance may be altered, transformed, or converted to a new substance. Here, the magnetic energy may alter, or assist in altering, an atomic and / or molecular property of the conductive substance, an atomic or molecular property of a component present in the conductive substance, or combinations thereof. Such alteration in the atomic and / or molecular properties of the conductive substance leads to an alteration in a mesoscale (physicochemical) property of the conductive substance. In various implementations, which may be combined with other implementations, the magnetic energy may be of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of a molecule present in the conductive substance, break a chemical bond of a molecule of a component present in the conductive substance, or combinations thereof.

[0089] Additionally, or alternatively, as the conductive substance (e.g., a conductive target, a conductive fluid, or combinations thereof) flows through the conduit and the magnetic field, energy that includes electrical energy (induced EMF) and / or thermal energy (collapse of nanobubbles) may be generated. The energy generated and the magnetic energy may alter, or assist in altering, an atomic and / or molecular property of the conductive substance, an atomic or molecular property of a component present in the conductive substance, or combinations thereof. Such alteration in the atomic and / or molecular properties of the conductive substance leads to an alteration in a mesoscale (physicochemical) property of the conductive substance. In various implementations, which may be combined with other implementations, the energy generated by, or involved with,PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 operation of the apparatus is of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of a molecule present in the conductive substance, break a chemical bond of a molecule of a component present in the conductive substance, or combinations thereof.

[0090] As described herein, the energy generated by, or involved with, operation of the apparatus 100 may be formed in the absence of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduits 101.

[0091] Apparatus described herein may be used with methods described herein.

[0092] Aspects of the present disclosure also generally relate to methods for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of a conductive substance. The method may include flowing a conductive substance (e.g., a conductive fluid, a conductive target, or both) through a conduit such as conduit 101. The method further includes exposing the conductive substance to a magnetic field or a series of magnetic fields. A pump (e.g., pump 114) or other suitable apparatus may be utilized to cause the conductive substance to flow at a certain velocity through the conduit. As described above, the conductive substance may include an organic substance. The conductive fluid may include an organic substance.

[0093] Organic substances may include a saccharide (e.g., a hexose, a pentose, or combinations thereof), a polysaccharide, a hydrocarbon (e.g., natural gas), an aldehyde functional group (e.g., glutaraldehyde), a carbamide functional group (e.g., urea), a thiol functional group, a thioether functional group, an alcohol functional group, an ether functional group, an ester functional group, an amine functional group, an amide functional group, an alkane, or combinations thereof.

[0094] The conductive target may be present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit. The conductive fluid may include water.

[0095] As the conductive substance (conductive target and / or conductive fluid) flows through the conduit and is exposed to the magnetic field(s), energy is generated that is sufficient to, e.g., alter one or more properties of a conductive substance, transform the conductive substance, or combinations thereof. The energy that is involved with the process (e.g., energy generated and magnetic energy) may be in the form of electrical energy (induced EMF), thermal energy (collapse of nanobubbles), magnetic energy, or combinations thereof, among other forms of energy. The energy generated may be in the form of a voltage, a current, thermal energy, or combinations thereof. In contrast toPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 conventional approaches, methods described herein may rely on EMF to generate such a voltage or current.

[0096] The magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), may alter or assist in altering one or more properties of a conductive substance, may transform or assist in transforming the conductive substance, or combinations thereof.

[0097] The magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), may facilitate dissociation of the conductive substance, may facilitate ionization of the conductive substance, may facilitate mineralization of the conductive substance, or combinations thereof. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source, may be of sufficient energy to increase an energy state of the conductive substance, may increase a polarizability of the conductive substance, or combinations thereof. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source, may alter an atomic property of the conductive substance, may alter a molecular property of the conductive substance, may dehydrate an ion present in the conductive substance, or combinations thereof. As described herein, alteration of the molecular property of the conductive substance may alter a mesoscale property of the conductive substance. Additionally, or alternatively, the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source, may be of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive substance.

[0098] For example, when the conductive substance comprises water (e.g., as a conductive fluid), the energy involved with operation of the aspects described herein may be sufficient to break chemical bonds within a water molecule. As another example, when the conductive substance comprises an organic molecule such as a saccharide (for example, glucose), the energy involved with operation of the aspects described herein may be sufficient to break a glycosidic bond of the saccharide. As another example, when the conductive substance comprises an organic molecule comprising an aldehyde functional group (for example, glutaraldehyde), the energy involved with operation of the aspects described herein may be sufficient to dissociate the organic molecule comprising the aldehyde functional group. As another example, when the conductive substance comprises an organic molecule comprising a carbamide functional group (for example, urea), thePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 energy involved with operation of the aspects described herein may be sufficient to structurally degrade or break the organic molecule comprising the carbamide functional group.

[0099] Besides the velocity of the conductive substance flowing through the conduit, other process parameters may be selected to adjust the energy sufficient to alter a property of the conductive substance, assist in altering a property of the conductive substance, transform the conductive substance, and / or assist in transforming the conductive substance. Process parameters may include, but are not limited to: a flow velocity of the conductive substance passing through the magnetic field, a temperature of the conductive substance in the conduit (e.g., conduits 101), a hydraulic pressure within the conduit, exposure time of the conductive substance to the magnetic energy (e.g., a residence time), or combinations thereof. Other process parameters are described herein.

[0100] In various implementations, the desired magnetic energy applied to the conductive substance may be selected to alter, or assist in altering, one or more molecular properties of the conductive substance. These molecular properties may include, but are not limited to, bond length, bond energy, bond angle, spin state, energy state, or combinations thereof. For ions, atomic properties and molecular properties may come into play.

[0101] Selection of the desired magnetic energy applied to the conductive substance may be performed by utilization of equations, algorithms, and / or models described herein. For example, and as further described below, the selection of the desired magnetic energy may include determining the magnitude of a magnetic energy that alters, or assists in altering, a conductive substance’s atomic and / or molecular properties based on Eq.1.0: .

[0102] A description of Eq. 1.0 is described below. The magnetic energy may be produced by a permanent magnet, an electromagnet, or combination thereof present in, e.g., apparatus 100. The magnetic energy may be affected by one or more magnetic conditioning parameters, one or more process parameters, or combinations thereof. Suitable magnetic conditioning parameters and suitable process parameters are described herein.

[0103] Upon exposure of the conductive substance to the energy, an atomic property and / or molecular property of the conductive substance is altered or transformed. Mesoscale properties of the conductive substance may also be altered because of the alteration in thePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 atomic and / or molecular scale properties of the conductive substance. Such mesoscale properties may include, but are not limited to, hydrogen bonding, viscosity, dynamic viscosity, vapor pressure, permeability, solubility, density, surface tension, polarity, pH, conductivity, reactivity, thermal conductivity, enthalpy, entropy, boiling point, vapor point, or combinations thereof, among others.

[0104] In some aspects, which may be combined with other aspects, methods described herein may include determining a magnetic energy introduced by a magnetic field on a flowing conductive fluid comprising a conductive target. The conductive target may include an organic molecule, and the magnetic energy may be determined by, at least, Eq. 1.0. Methods may further include determining a magnetic energy associated with the conductive target, wherein the magnetic energy associated with the conductive target is determined by, at least, Eq.1.7. .

[0105] A description of Eq.1.7 is described below.

[0106] Methods may further include determining a net energy based on a comparison of ^^^and ∆^^. Methods may further include determining a bond energy of a chemical bond present in the organic molecule that would be altered or transformed based on the net energy by, e.g., comparing the net energy determined to a known bond energy value. Methods may further include exposing the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target to an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the chemical bond present in the organic molecule. The exposing the conductive fluid to the operational magnetic energy may then alter or transform the conductive target.

[0107] In some aspects, which may be combined with other aspects, the conductive substance may be moved relative to the magnetic field(s). Additionally, or alternatively, the conductive substance may be stationary, and the magnetic field(s) may be moved relative to the conductive substance.

[0108] In some aspects, which may be combined with other aspects, methods described herein may include identifying a bond energy of at least one bond present in a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule. For example, the bond may be a glycosidic bond. Methods may further include determining an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the at least one bond present in the organicPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 molecule. The operational magnetic energy may be determined by inputs, e.g., ^^^as determined by Eq. 1.0, ∆^^ as determined by Eq. 1.7, or a combination thereof, among others. The operational magnetic energy is the magnetic energy that may be set by an operator or a program. Methods may further include setting a source of magnetic energy to the operational magnetic energy. Methods may further include exposing the conductive target to the operational magnetic energy while moving a conductive fluid relative to the source of the magnetic energy, the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target. Additionally, or alternatively, the conductive target may be exposed to the operational magnetic energy while moving the source of magnetic energy relative to a conductive fluid, the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target.

[0109] Use of methods described herein may result in an energy change in the conductive substance. For example, a first measured energy state of the conductive substance (e.g., conductive fluid and / or target therein, etc.) measured before directing the conductive substance to flow through the magnetic field may be lower than a second measured energy state of the conductive substance measured after flowing the conductive substance through the magnetic field. Use of methods described herein may result in a first measured polarizability of the conductive substance measured before directing the conductive substance to flow through the magnetic field that is altered relative to a second measured polarizability of the conductive substance measured after flowing the conductive substance through the magnetic field. Use of methods described herein may result in a first measured dynamic viscosity of the conductive substance measured before directing the conductive substance to flow through the magnetic field that is higher than a second measured dynamic viscosity of the conductive substance measured after flowing the conductive substance through the magnetic field.

[0110] The method may further include collecting the altered and / or transformed conductive substance for use, if desired, in downstream applications. The altered or transformed conductive substance may enable subsequent processes to be performed in a manner that is less energy intensive and less costly than conventional technologies. For example, the conductive substance having altered properties and / or the transformed conductive substance may be removed by, for example, filtering such as by using a membrane, a media filter, or combinations thereof. The altered or transformed conductivePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 substance may enable subsequent processes to be performed in a manner that is less energy intensive and less costly than conventional technologies. Example Application: Removal or Transformation Organic Compounds

[0111] Removing naturally occurring organic compounds and synthetic organic compounds from water is an important challenge for various industries such as drinking water and wastewater industries. These organic compounds are present in surface waters and groundwater. Conventional technologies have not adequately solved how to remove organic compounds from water without the use of chemical additives and / or oxidation processes. The transformation of naturally occurring organic compounds such as sugars into useful products is also of interest. Conventional technologies for converting sugars to useful products rely on chemical inputs and are energy intensive. Overall, conventional technologies rely on chemical mechanisms (such as catalysts or reagents) for removing or transforming organic compounds and synthetic organic compounds into less harmful or useful materials.

[0112] Aspects described herein may be coupled with, or even replace, conventional technologies for removal or transformation of organic compounds. Use of aspects of the present disclosure enable improved outcomes relative to conventional technologies such as lower costs, lower energy usage, and greater efficiencies.

[0113] For removal of organic compounds, the conductive substance includes a conductive fluid (e.g., water) and a conductive target (e.g., an organic compound). An objective here is, for example, to improve removal or transformation of organic compounds. Equations, algorithms, and / or models described herein may be utilized to determine desired magnetic conditioning parameters and / or process parameters useful to:

[0114] (a) alter, or assist in altering, molecular properties of the organic compound sufficiently to satisfy the objective;

[0115] (b) transform, or assist in transforming, the organic compound and thereby alter mesoscale properties of the organic compound sufficiently to satisfy the objective;

[0116] (c) alter, or assist in altering, molecular properties of the water sufficiently to satisfy the objective;

[0117] (d) transform, or assist in transforming, the water and thereby alter mesoscale properties of the water sufficiently to satisfy the objective; or

[0118] (e) combinations thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0119] Additionally, or alternatively, equations, algorithms, and / or models described herein may be utilized to determine desired magnetic conditioning parameters and / or process parameters useful to alter, or assist in altering, atomic properties of ion(s) present in the organic compound and / or the water. The magnetic energy may be sufficient to alter and / or transform the organic compound and / or the water. Besides the magnetic energy, use of apparatus and methods of the present disclosure may generate energy sufficient to alter one or more properties of the organic compound, to transform the organic compound, to alter one or more properties of the water, to transform the water, alter one or more properties of ion(s) present, or combinations thereof. Such energy may be a result of the magnetic energy applied to the organic compound or water, induced EMF in the water, collapse of nanobubbles in the water, or combinations thereof.

[0120] The spatial arrangement of atoms in each molecule is a function of the bond types and strengths that make up the molecular structure. Bond properties, bond length, bond angle relative to neighboring atoms, and bond integrity are a function of their strength or energy state and the energy state of the surrounding environment. Bonds may be broken if the background energy state equals or exceeds that of the bond(s). For example, the application of thermal energy (heating) to a molecule will result in thermal decomposition of the molecule once the thermal energy exceeds some limit for the overall energy state of the target molecule. In this case, the energy is supplied by passage of a molecule, organic or otherwise, through a series of magnetic fields. This supplied energy, just as other energy sources, may first alter and then break the bonds making up the molecular structure once some threshold value is achieved. This threshold value is determined by the number and types of bonds making up the overall structure. The susceptibility of a given molecule to be affected by passage through the magnetic system may be determined by the presence of weaker bond types, such as C−S (typical bond energy ~ 260 kJ / mol), S−H (typical bond energy ~ 340 kJ / mol), C-O (typical bond energy ~ 360 kJ / mol) , N−H (typical bond energy ~ 390 kJ / mol) , and C−C (typical bond energy ~ 350 kJ / mol) bonds.

[0121] The following examples are put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to make and use aspects of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of aspects of the present disclosure. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers used but some experimental errors and deviations should be accounted for.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 Examples

[0122] The examples describe operation of aspects described herein mostly in relation to magnetic energy. As described herein, the magnetic energy may be used as a tool to assist in generating energy to alter one or more properties of a conductive substance, to transform a conductive substance, to generate a new substance, or combinations thereof. Energy sufficient to alter a property of a conductive substance or transform a conductive substance may be a result of, e.g., magnetic energy alone. Energy sufficient to alter a property of a conductive substance or transform a conductive substance may be a result of, e.g., magnetic energy, electrical energy (induced EMF), thermal energy (collapse of nanobubbles), or combinations thereof. As described herein, organic molecules / compounds are conductive substances. 1. Introduction

[0123] Removing naturally occurring organic compounds and synthetic organic compounds (SOCs)—such as those organic compounds that affect human health—from drinking water is an important challenge for various industries such as the water industry. The continued development of new SOCs points to an ever-evolving, and potentially more stringent, water treatment requirement for municipalities.

[0124] Transformation of naturally-occurring organic compounds, like sugars, is another important application. For example, starches and cellulosic feedstocks may be converted into ethanol through biochemical processes, which may be energy intensive. Removing SOCs and / or transforming naturally occurring compounds with minimum material and energy, as a new treatment technology, may provide cost savings relative to conventional technologies.

[0125] Overall, conventional technologies rely on physical mechanisms (such as membranes) or chemical mechanisms (such as catalysts or reagents) for removing or transforming organic compounds into less harmful or useful materials. In contrast, aspects described herein may utilize magnetic fields for manipulating the properties of solvents (for example, water) and solutes (for example, molecules, ions thereof, or combinations thereof, among others). In some aspects, the magnetic fields may be utilized to, for example, transform, mineralize, destroy, dissociate, dehydrate, and / or alter properties of the solutes. By transforming, mineralizing, dissociating, dehydrating, destroying, and / or alteringPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 properties of the solutes, the removal of the solute through secondary processes / systems may be enhanced.

[0126] Aspects of the present disclosure may be utilized to transform organic molecules and / or ions thereof without dissociating the organic molecules and / or ions thereof, for example, by increasing bond energy, thereby enabling altered reaction properties with other substances. Additionally, or alternatively, aspects of the present disclosure may be utilized to dissociate organic molecules and / or ions thereof into smaller organic molecules. These smaller organic molecules have different properties than the organic molecules and / or ions prior to subjecting to a magnetic field (magnetic energy). In some aspects, the dissociation products can, depending on their respective properties and the magnetic field, may recombine into different organic molecules of various sizes and / or various properties than the organic molecules prior to subjecting to the magnetic field.

[0127] Numerous mechanisms have been proposed for the sometimes contradictory findings of studies on magnetic field effects on aqueous systems. In many studies, different manifestations of changes in water properties have been attributed to changes in its molecular properties related to the energy generated upon passing through a magnetic field(s).

[0128] Theoretical constructs for relating magnetic field exposure to changes in hydrogen bonds for water molecules at the quantum and molecular scales have been developed. One finding from such studies is that changes in hydrogen bonds for water molecules may arise from differences in proton motions and proton current in the presence of the external magnetic fields. Such changes in the molecular properties of water have been used to describe various experimental observations of changes in solution electrical conductivity. It has been suggested that upon exposure to a static magnetic field (B = 0.5 T), the hydrogen bonds that exist between any two water molecules may be made more stable resulting in the growth of water clusters in the bulk solution. These conclusions were based on experimentally measured changes in water surface tension (decreased from ~73 mN / m to ~68 mN / m) and dynamic viscosity (increased from 1.06 to 1.18 mPa^s). Some have suggested that these outcomes may arise from reductions in the molecular motions of water molecules and an increase in their activation energy.

[0129] Recent findings have also indicated that a magnetic field (B = 0.27 T) may increase the number of hydrogen bonds in a solution at a fixed temperature (300°K) as thePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 friction coefficient decreases from 0.055 to 0.035 after treatment by the magnetic device. However, no clear mechanism for these observations has been put forth in the literature.

[0130] From these previous studies it is surmised that the properties of the water molecule(s) are altered by passage, or exposure, to a magnetic field resulting in changes in its intermolecular interactions. Hydrogen bonds themselves are not altered; however, due to changes in the polar covalent bond properties of the water molecule(s), the prominence of hydrogen bonds in determining molecular behaviors becomes more or less substantial.

[0131] Mechanistic studies of how magnetic fields influence the properties of organic structures are largely missing from literature. Recent reports have indicated that static exposure to a magnetic field (B = 862 mT) may alter the dynamics of electron relaxation and recombination of spin charge carriers in organic polymer composites. These changes may increase the ability of the organic polymer composite to conduct electrical charges, which may be attributed to a slowdown of the cross-relaxation of spin charge carriers when an external magnetic field is applied, and further results in independence of spin charge carriers. A spin charge carrier is a particle, or quasiparticle, that is not restrained from movements and could contain electromagnetic properties. With changes in the carriers, the overall properties of a particle system could potentially be altered.

[0132] Studies have also found that magnetic fields may alter the intensity and direction of currents in an organic molecular spin-photovoltaic circuit. Here, it has been suggested that magneto current may not have a clear role for such changes but changes in the magnetization alignment could lead to the generation of the spin-polarized output current. Many other studies in physics also indicate that magnetic fields may induce changes in elemental states of various materials. Although these studies provide evidence that the fundamental properties of organic molecules may be affected by a magnetic field, the ability of such energy sources to transform, or degrade, organic molecules has not been evaluated.

[0133] Organic molecules generally include various types of functional groups and bond structures in which there may be different arrangements of nuclear spins. With the existing spins in the organic materials, potential changes in the spin status, as well as subsequent changes in the physiochemical properties of the molecule, may be induced in the presence of a magnetic field(s). Direct measurement of spin status is experimentally difficult. However, examination of more macroscopic changes in molecular properties, suchPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 as changes in functional group characteristics which could potentially increase in absorbance and / or additional peaks, may be used as indicators of such changes.

[0134] Aspects described herein include the examination into how two naturally occurring organic compounds—e.g., glucose and urea—respond to passage through a multidirectional magnetic field. Findings from these experiments may be interpreted using a newly developed model relating magnetic energy to the bond properties of the organic substances.

[0135] A non-limiting objective of this study was to determine whether magnetic fields may transform organic substances (e.g., SOCs and naturally occurring organic compounds). The inventors found that the magnetic fields may transform organic substances. Changes in molecular properties may be evaluated in terms of parameters related to applied hydrodynamic conditions and the total Gibbs free energy induced by movements within the multi-directional magnetic fields. 2. Theoretical

[0136] A statistical-physical model for predicting changes in total energy state of a particle resulting from passage through the magnetic field system was developed using data acquired from information gathered at different scales. The normalized expression for the magnetic energy experienced by a given particle (^^^in units of electron-volts (eV)), is shown in Eq.1.0: (Eq.1.0)wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field (e.g., B = 1.35 T); ^^^^ (in units of Tesla, T) is the local magnetic field gradient, which is the field generated by the electron spin associated with the particle; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field (sec); ^^^^^is effective mass of the relevant particle and is computed using the electron energy and wave vectors of the particle (kg); ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the system (e.g., total number of particles in the conductive fluid); ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive fluid through the magnetic field system (cm / sec); ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is solution (e.g., conductive fluid) temperature (K); ^^^is the magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6↓is the state of spin densityPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounted for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in the pipe (conduit) containing the magnets.

[0137] In Eq. 1.0, ^^ may be flow velocity or Darcy velocity, which is the nominal velocity through the conduit considering only the flowrate and conduit cross sectional area.

[0138] Up-scaled experimental data were employed to build and examine the predictive models to better estimate overall performance and responses of the particle system to the magnetic treatment. Experimental data was not available for describing the phenomenon at each of the different scales, and thus they could not be integrated directly due to discreteness between different scales. Therefore, data from the upper nanoscale were also integrated after which the statistical physical modeling (Eq.1.0) was built based on bridged data from the different scales, which was generated from the varied scales of data from the magnetic treatments.

[0139] Eq. 1.0 may be used to predict how the overall energy state of a particle, of a known initial energy state, will change under a given set of operating set points for the magnetic field system. For instance, granted that the velocity was the only operational variable employed here, the magnetic energy obtained from Eq. 1.0 may be practically logarithmic in nature, indicating that the model, in some instances, could be further simplified under specific circumstances to predict or estimate particle energy changes. Under the hydrodynamic conditions used in this study (^^ௗ> ~10 cm / sec), the flow conditions were all characterized as turbulent. Therefore, it was assumed that the particles flowing through the magnetic field system experienced all magnetic field gradients, ^^^^. Therefore, for these simulations and tests, the ultimate magnetic energy a material experiences is a function of flow velocity through the magnetic field system.

[0140] A particle, such as an ion, molecule, particulate, combinations thereof, among others, passing through a magnetic field may be exposed to energy. The magnitude and action of this energy may be a function of, for example, the particle properties, magnetic field(s) properties, motion of the particle relative to the magnetic field(s), or combinations thereof. In Einstein’s function, the general term of magnetic energy, ^^, was estimated in earlier studies, and details pertaining to the computation of ^^ have been described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US2024 / 051781, filed October 17, 2024, entitledPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 “Magnetically Assisted Alteration or Transformation of a Substance”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0141] Energy introduced into water by a magnetic field, ^^^^^^, may calculated according to Eq.1.1:wherein: ^^ is the strength of the magnetic field (for example, about 1.350 T); ^^^is the uniform angular momentum, or spin, of the target through the magnetic device at constant temperature;is the exchange coefficient for each target in the fluid (e.g., fluid is water); ^^ is the dimensionless magnetic moment of the target; ^^^is the permeability of the permanent magnet(s) (e.g., permanent neodymium magnets); ^^ is total momentum of substances moving through the magnetic field; and ^^ is number of lattice sites of the target. The value of ^^µ^^^^^^^ is a linear function of the flow velocity through the magnetic field. Since the energy computed using Eq. 1.1 was done at the quantum mechanics scale and could not reveal the relationship between the energy and velocity, the relativistic relation between kinetic energy and momentum was introduced to form Eq.1.2.

[0142] Eq.1.2 was expanded and expressed as a Taylor series approximation (Eq.1.3). Eq. 1.3 shows how molecular mechanics may be combined with Newtonian mechanics when water molecules were considered collectively,

[0143] The energy of water molecules was dependent on the structure of the molecule and would be changed when temperature changed or other external energy was applied, and ௌ మ thus when external energy was considered as another aspect െబଶ∑^^ ^^^^ of Eq. 1.1, theௌ ernal energy െబమ int ଶ∑^^ ^^^^ was considered as constant. And though the external energy,െ^^^^^^^^^^^ part of Eq. 1.1, provided by moving through the magnetic field was through changing angular momentum of water molecule, it could be physio-mathematically renormalized as linear momentum. Because in this system, the radius of rotation could be considered as going to infinity, which was from molecule scale to Newtonian mechanicsPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 scale, and, thus, the angular momentum could be renormalized as linear momentum as shown in Eq.1.4: ^^ ൌ ^^^^ଶ^^ ൌ ^^^^^^ (Eq. 1.4)

[0144] In Eq.1.4, ^^ represents the linear momentum; ^^ is the mass of all substances in the fluid (e.g., water); ^^ is radius of rotation of the target; and ^^ is the velocity of the target.

[0145] Since Eq.1.2 and Eq.1.3 supports that potentiality, molecular mechanics could be correlated to Newtonian mechanics, the total angular momentum, ^^ in Eq. 1.1 is substituted with ^^^^^^ in Eq.1.4 to form Eq.1.5.(Eq. 1.5)

[0146] The energy introduced by the magnetic field, ^^^^^^, may increase linearly with flow velocity.

[0147] Building on these efforts, parameters accounting for, e.g., the dimensional characteristics of that system, may be introduced. From the referred models మ (^^^^^^ ସఎ௩^ௗ^ଷ^భ^^^^ ൌ ^^ಳ் మమ(Eq. S1)) in which ^^^^ (local magnetic field gradient) isరఓబ^^ଶ^↑,↓^ఌಷఓಳఓబு൧^ embedded, the local magnetic field gradient may be further estimated, which is the difference in magnetic field per unit change at a direction in the Faraday balance and may be calculated according to Eq.1.6:

[0148] In Eq.1.6, ^^ is the length of the magnet; ^^ is the radius of the magnet, and ^^ isthe current density of the used magnet(s) ^^^ ൌ ^^ / ^^^^. Eq. S1 is described below.

[0149] For the study described herein, the magnets may be defined as cylinders with a length ^^ of 7.62 cm and a radius ^^ of 2.54 cm. The cylindrical geometry may be selected to simplify the computational requirements required for determining ^^^^. Because permanent magnets were used, no external electric current applied was applied, though it is contemplated that external electric current may be applied. Therefore, the current density may be determined using the magnetic polarization, ^^, which is measured in units of Tesla (like ^^) and accessed through the magnetization, and vacuum permeability of the magnets, ^^^, according to Maxwell’s equations.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0150] The effect(s) of time within the series of magnetic fields may arise from the number of times that the magnetic states, which is the magnetic order represented by magnetization vectors, of a given particle switches. Although spin states of organic compounds are a matter of debate, the spin states have been hypothesized as consisting of multiple states, which may be used as theoretical support to estimate energy changes upon passing through the magnetic fields (Eq. 1.6) for the organic molecules using the Landau model.

[0151] A dimensionless estimation for the difference in magnetic energy may be computed using the six-order Landau expansion, which may be adapted to evaluate magnetic energy of materials with multiple states, as shown in Eq.1.7:

[0152] In Eq.1.7, ^^^^^^^ is the vicinal magnetic transition of the target as a function of time; ^^^is an independent characteristic temperature of the fluid comprising the target and passing through the magnetic field, which is an intrinsic property based upon elemental properties; ^^ is a bulk temperature of the fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is the magnetization of the target under a given magnetic field; ^^^is a temperature dependent magnetization constant for normalization; ^^^is the initial energy state of the target at the given temperature; ^^ is the initial magnetic identity factor for the relevant target, which is sometimes referred to as the heat-specific magnetic identity factor for the relevant target(e.g., ^^ ≅ 1.0); ^^ is the flux factor for the relevant target (^^ = 0.4 for both urea and glucose),and ^^ is the domain wall energy of the relevant target (^^ீ^௨^^^^= 60.05 mJ / m2; ^^^^^^= 75 mJ / m2). ^^, ^^, and ^^ are target-specific constants (e.g., specific to a conductive substance).

[0153] Eq. 1.7 is a new mathematical developed to evaluate magnetic energy of materials with multiple states for comparison with the generated magnetic energy. That is, Eq.1.7 is a new equation to calculate energy associated with any suitable organic molecule. ∆^^ is a magnetic energy associated with a target and indicates an energy that may be utilized to transform a target. This magnetic energy associated with the target may include a magnetic energy that a target (which may have multiple spin states) experiences upon exposure to the magnetic field or passing through the magnetic field.

[0154] The magnitude(s) of the magnetic energy ∆^^ may be compared with the bond energies that make up the glucose and urea molecules. When the magnetic energy, which isPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 a portion of the thermodynamic energy of the total particle system, experienced by a particle is larger than the relevant bond energy value, a modification in the bond may be implied. Such modifications may be viewed as an increase in excitation of the particle and / or alteration in the functional group properties.

[0155] In some aspects, molecular dynamics simulations may be performed to determine an operational magnetic energy that the fluid comprising the target(s) may be subjected to. The molecular dynamics simulations may utilize ^^^^^^, ∆^^, and / or a net energy (a comparison of ^^^^^^, ∆^^) as inputs for the molecular dynamics’ simulations. In some aspects, the operational magnetic energy may be greater than the bond energy of at least one bond present in the target.

[0156] By subjecting the fluid, a target therein, or combinations thereof to the operational magnetic energy, the fluid and / or the target(s) present in the fluid may be altered, transformed, mineralized, dissociated, and / or dehydrated, among other effects. 2.1. Equation S1.

[0157] The energy that a particle is exposed to upon passing through the magnetic field system may be estimated using Eq. S1:wherein: ^^ is the total number of particles per unit volume (dimensionless); ^^^^^is the effective mass of the particle of interest and is computed using the electron energy and wave vectors of the particle of interest (kg); the relevant particle refers to the target particle of interest, e.g., sodium ions; ^^ is the magnetic mobility of the particle of interest (m2 / V^sec); ^^ is the linear bulk velocity of the target particle population along the x-axis through a magnetic field(s) (cm / sec); ^^ is a strength of the magnetic field, ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient (T), which is difference in magnetic field per unit change at a direction in the Faraday balance; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is the solution temperature (where the solution refers to the liquid or liquid mixture of a solvent containing particles, e.g., a conductive fluid) (°K);↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounted for the exposure time to the magnetic fields; ^^ிis the Fermi energy (eV) which is calculated according to the total number of particles, unit volume, and invariant mass of fermion; ^^^is the Bohr magneton (9.274 × 10−24Am2); ^^^PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 is the magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6H / m); ^^ is the applied local field (T), which is an internal field for magnetization of a particle; ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in the pipe (conduit) containing the magnets; ^^^^ is the differential of the linear distance travelled by the particle of interest in the magnetic field system; and ^^ is a general term of magnetic energy. 3. Non-limiting Materials and Methods 3.1. Chemicals and Reagents

[0158] In some examples, the targets investigated include glucose, urea, and glutaraldehyde.

[0159] All solutions were made using ultrapure water from a Milli-Q Direct 16 water system (Millipore Sigma, Burlington, MA) having a resistivity of 18.2 MΩ^cm and an unbuffered pH of 6.07±0.05. Citric acid (purity of 99.6%) and sodium hydroxide (purity of 98%) were acquired from Fisher Scientific (Hampton, NH). Deuterium oxide (99.8 atom%) and glucose (purity≥99.5%, GC grade) were acquired from Millipore Sigma (Burlington, MA). Urea (purity of 99.5%) was acquired from Acros Organics (Pittsburgh, PA). The chemical structures of D-glucose (Haworth projections of the α-anomer (A1) and β-anomer (A2)) and urea (A3) are:

[0160] Glucose includes C–H groups, O–H groups, and carbonyl groups, which are representative functional groups that exist in a wide range of carbohydrates. And carbohydrates are one of the major components in wastewater to be removed or recovered. The N–H group in urea represents another common type of functional group, as well as functional groups in compounds found in municipal wastewater. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of the unused glucose and urea molecules are shown in FIG.2 and FIG.3.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 3.2. Characterization of Organic Compounds

[0161] Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging was performed to characterize the structural properties of the organic molecules in a liquid phase. NMR measurements on the virgin and treated organic compounds were performed using a Bruker 400 MHz NMR (Bruker, Billerica, MA). The NMR was tuned to a1H (proton) nucleus. Prior to NMR analyses, aqueous samples were freeze-dried using a lyophilizer at −84°C (Labconco Freezone, Kansas City, MO). The 5 mg dried sample was then added to 650 µL of deuterium oxide (D2O).1H NMR analysis was then conducted for the deuterated solution using a 5 mm NMR tube. The tubes were cleaned with ethanol and air-dried before filling with the deuterated solutions. Auto shim was performed to lock the NMR signal. Deuterated solvent (the deuterium oxide) was selected for the auto shim. 16 scans were performed for each sample. Exponential multiplication on free induction decay was utilized to improve the signal to noise ratio. Fourier transformation and phase correction were applied to the NMR signals. Phase correction was automatically performed by the instrument.

[0162] Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was utilized to characterize the type(s) of functional groups and bonds present in the respective organic molecules. All FTIR measurements were performed using a Nicolet™ iS50 FTIR Spectrometer with an attenuated total reflectance (ATR) module (Thermo Fisher Scientific; Waltham, MA). The infrared (IR) used for this study was mid-IR with a range of 4000 cm–1toFor each measurement, 100 scans were performed and were corrected for the background water solution. Prior to each analysis, the FTIR was calibrated using ultrapure water to prevent systematic error from the instrument. The FTIR spectra of the samples were acquired at ambient temperature (about 20°C).

[0163] Raman spectroscopy was utilized to determine the chemical structures of the organic compounds prior to, and posterior to, passing through the magnetic fields. Spectra were obtained using a Raman spectrometer (XploRA™ PLUS, Horiba, Kyoto, Japan). Sample preparations for Raman spectroscopy were the same as those for the NMR measurements. The Raman spectrometer was equipped with a laser having a wavelength of 532 nm and a power of 76 mW. The filter and grating for the Raman instrument were set to 10% and 750 nm, respectively. The Raman range for sampling was 100 cm–1to 4000 cm–1. Before all measurements, the instrument was calibrated using SPRCO, a Raman standardPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 provided by Horiba, with a grating of 750 nm and the filter set at 1%. All measurements were conducted at ambient temperature (about 20°C).

[0164] Matrix-assisted laser desorption / ionization coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) measurements were performed using Sciex 5800 (SCIEX, Framingham, MA) to indicate potential changes in molecule weight of the select chemicals. MALDI-TOF worked on a mass to charge (m / z) basis. Samples were acidified prior to the analysis (for example, so that molecules could be protonated or have an electron removed) to form a cation ionic species of the molecule. The molecules were then desorbed into a gas and induced to a magnetic field before being accelerated to a plate detector. Smaller ions would fly faster through the instrument, while larger ions would travel slower, thus separating them for detection. And subsequently, potential differences in molecular weight could be detected. 3.3. Multi-Directional Magnetic Field Flow Apparatus and Testing

[0165] A non-limiting process flow diagram for an example flow-through magnetic apparatus 100 is shown in FIG.1 and described above. While the discussion and data of the present disclosure may pertain to single pass operations, scale-up designs and implementations may be advantaged by recirculation.

[0166] Free chlorine concentration in the influent, after addition of the dechlorinating agent, may be monitored using the following models: pH (DPD1P1), conductivity (3700 Digital Inductive Conductivity Sensor), dissolved oxygen (LDO® Model 2), and free chlorine (CL 17).

[0167] For the experiments, all probes were acquired from HACH (Loveland, CO). All sensors were integrated with a LabView designed data acquisition and process control program. All probes were calibrated before each experiment. All experiments were performed at a pH of about 7, and the pH was controlled by dosing a chemical, for example, citric acid and / or sodium hydroxide into the feed stream using dosing pumps. The experiments were carried out at flow rates from about 37.85 liters per minute (LPM) to about 227.13 LPM.

[0168] A summary of the relevant bond energies in glucose and urea is provided in Table 1. The magnitude of the calculated magnetic energy was contrasted with those values for the relevant bonds to determine if and how the relevant bonds would respond. Also included in Table 1 are calculated magnetic energies under relevant experimental flowPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 velocities through the magnetic system and are shown for comparison. In Table 1, the magnetic energy was computed based on an ideal particle under selected test conditions and using Eq.1.7. Table 13.4. Organic Materials Exposure to the Magnetic Fields

[0169] Flow-through experiments were performed using a mixed electrolyte solution. The feed solution chemistry and the composition of the mixed electrolyte solution for the flow-through magnetic field experiments (n≥3) is summarized in Table 2. The temperature in Table 2 was the ambient temperature of the water. Table 2PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0170] For the experiments, the feed solution selected was tap water, which was utilized due to the flowrates that were used in the experiments. The ionic composition of the water was monitored through regular sampling throughout the duration of the experiments. Free chlorine may be quenched using sodium metabisulfite (Na2S2O5) and may be dosed into the feed solution. The influent concentrations of urea and glucose were each about 1000 mg / L. The organic materials were exposed to the magnetic field at different flow velocities, ^^^of about 7.8 cm / sec, about 15.6 cm / sec, about 23.3 cm / sec, about 31.1 cm / sec, and about 46.8 cm / sec. Samples were acquired for subsequent analysis on the influent and effluent flows, from each of the three flow-through magnetic tubes. Control tests were performed using the same hydraulic conditions as those in the organic trials. In the control tests the feed solution bypassed the magnetic system, but was otherwise subjected to the same chemical addition and processing. 4. Non-limiting Results and Discussion 4.1. Alterations in Glucose Properties upon Exposure to Magnetic Energy

[0171] Posterior to the magnetic field, it was determined that the glucose presented contrasting properties to that measured prior to the magnetic field. As shown in FIGS.4A and 4B, the FTIR absorbance of glucose increased irrespective of the flow velocity used. As flow velocity increased so too did the absorbance at a wavelength (λ) of about 1137 cm–1and at a λ of aboutWhen the flow velocity was about 31.1 cm / sec or more, the increase in magnitude of the absorbance became less substantial.

[0172] For example, the increase in absorbance was determined to be more substantial when the velocity increased from about 7.8 cm / sec to about 31.1 cm / sec relative to that measured when the velocity increased from about 31.1 cm / sec to about 46.8 cm / sec. This may be due to the logarithmic relationship between magnetic energy and flow velocity through the magnetic field. The observed increases in absorbance at the noted wavelengthsPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 may be indicative of increase in the energy state of the glucose. At a higher energy state, a molecule may be more easily excited by the infrared, resulting in vibrational energy differences and a more intense absorption peak. In addition, when molecules are in a higher energy state, the molecules may be more easily transformed and / or degraded as the magnitude of energy(ies) required to break the constituent bonds is reduced, thereby reducing the energy and / or other inputs utilized for transformation and / or decomposition.

[0173] Differences in FTIR absorbance indicated an agreement with the proposed energy changes that the glucose molecules would experience upon passage through the magnetic system. For example, when the glucose passed through the multidirectional magnetic field at about 7.8 cm / sec, the change in absorbance at λ of about 1137 cm–1for glucose indicated an increase of about 6.25% in its energy state, while the theoretical model (Eq. 1.7) suggested an increase of about 6.92%. In addition, concurring with Eq. 1.6, the energy induced by the magnetic field may increase with increasing flow velocity through the magnetic field. At a higher velocity of about 31.1 cm / sec, it was determined that the energy state of the bond increased by about 10.6% while the theoretical increase was about 11.1%.

[0174] Unique changes to the FTIR absorption spectrum for glucose at a ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec or more (FIG.4A). These changes included the emergence of new absorbance peaks at wavelengths of about 3039 cm–1and aboutThe presence of these peaks may suggest changes in the properties of the intramolecular O–H group. Prior to the magnetic field, the O–H group had a singular broad absorbance band at 3500 cm–1≤ λ ≤ Posterior to the treatment, the O–H group presented sharp peaks at a wavelength (λ) of aboutThe peaks at about 3000 cm–1point to a more saturated O–H group, or an O–H group having a higher energy state relative to the initial bond. When the solution was recirculated through the system, these peaks became more pronounced, as well as two new peaks emerged at wavelengths of about 2917 cm–1and aboutWhile not experimentally accessible, the changes in molecular energy states may be a potential sign of differences in the spin state of the glucose molecule.

[0175] According to the NMR spectra presented in FIGS.5A and 5B passage through the magnetic system may alter the ratio of α-D-glucose to β-D-glucose. The influent sample was characterized by a glucose ratio of:PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0176] After passing through the magnetic field this ratio changed to a glucose ratio of: 11.537

[0177] These representative results were obtained at a ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec. A change in this ratio indicated that a portion of β-D-glucose may be converted to α-D-glucose.

[0178] α-D-glucose is more reactive (less stable) and of a higher energy state compared with β-D-glucose. This higher reactivity may be due to the respective locations of the hydroxyl groups on the anomeric carbon (the C1 carbon), where the β position is characterized by the hydroxyl group being on the same side as the C6 carbon. Conversely, it is on the opposite side of the C6 carbon for the α-position. The naturally-occurring ratio of α-D-glucose to β-D-glucose is about 1:1.725, which was also measured for the control samples and shown in FIG.5A.

[0179] The measured energy states of α-D-glucose and β-D-glucose in a condensed phase are about −2805 kJ / mol and about −2723 kJ / mol, respectively. With the transition from β-D-glucose to α-D-glucose, the overall energy state of the glucose molecules increased. The increase in the glucose energy state, coupled with the change in the ratio of α / β, suggested that the glucose after passing through the magnetic system may be more susceptible to degradation than that prior to treatment. Of note, as energy state increases less energy may be required to break the constituent bonds of a given molecule. Accordingly, aspects described herein may enable the utilization of less amounts of energy and / or other inputs for transforming and / or decomposing molecules.

[0180] The suggestion that passing through the magnetic system may make the glucose more susceptible to degradation was supported by measured changes in the charge to mass ratios for the untreated and treated glucose (FIG.6). Data from the control tests (no magnetic treatment) suggested that there was no interference introduced by the system (FIG. 7). Samples that had passed through the magnetic system were characterized by molecules of lower charge to mass ratio (molecular weights), showing m / z at 203 and 219. These “smaller” structures were determined to be more predominant as the flow velocity increased from about 7.8 cm / sec to about 31.1 cm / sec (FIG. 6) in accordance with an increase in magnetic energy as shown in Eq.1.6. In some examples, it was determined that an overlapPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 in the mass:charge (m / z) signal exists at about 203 m / z for the influent sample and effluent sample collected at a ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec.

[0181] Analysis of glucose that had passed through the pump and associated plumbing showed no variation from the control (untreated) glucose sample. Therefore, the measured changes in glucose structure were determined to not be due to turbulence, or other hydrodynamic, effects. Heavier molecular weight fractions (charge to mass ratios) were detected for the treated sample at a ^^^of about 7.8 cm / sec. These larger structures may have resulted from the aggregation and / or recombination of smaller fragments of the degraded glucose and / or aggregation of discrete glucose molecules. Such larger structures were not detected in samples from the higher flow velocities (^^^of about 31.13 cm / sec and ^^^of about 46.80 cm / sec). It is not known why this did not occur at the higher velocity and higher magnetic energy condition. However, and while not wishing to be bound by any theory, the formed smaller structures may have been more stable through greater electrostatic (repulsive) interactions resulting from the exposure of more charged sites on the molecular fragments. 4.2. Alterations in Urea Properties upon Exposure to Magnetic Energy

[0182] The FTIR spectra of FIG. 8A showed increases in absorbance for the urea (CO(NH2)2) posterior to the magnetic system. As shown in FIG.8A, additional absorbance peaks were found at a ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec at wavelengths of about 2854 cm–1, about 2926 cm–1, and about 2954 cm–1. The new peaks indicated formation of new bonds and / or stretching of the C–H, N–H, and O–H bonds within the molecular structure.

[0183] Compared with the changes in the FTIR absorbance of glucose (FIGS.4A and 4B), similar instances of new peak formation in the FTIR spectra were seen for the urea after passing through the magnetic system. Posterior to the magnetic system, the absorbance intensity at a wavelength range of from about 3200 cm–1to about 3400 cm–1was found to increase from about 0.04 to about 0.09, indicative of intramolecular bonding between amine and carbonyl groups and / or stronger vibration of NH stretching. The increase in band intensity at λ of about 3200 cm–1to about 3400 cm–1may also suggest a potential weak C=O overtone of the urea. The observed increase in the FTIR absorption intensity may further indicate an increase in the molecular energy state, in agreement with the findings for the glucose. Like that observed for the glucose, the increase in magnitude of the IR absorbance became less substantial at a ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec. This finding agrees with findings fromPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 studies that suggested a logarithmic trend between magnetic energy and velocity through magnetic fields.

[0184] To further identify the roles of two interrelated parameters, flow velocity and time of exposure to the magnetic fields, Raman comparisons were completed for long time exposure at two different velocities—a ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec and a ^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec. Non-limiting results are shown in FIG.8B. The two parameters, flow velocity and exposure time, were determined to be interrelated. A longer exposure time under a lower velocity may result in the same effects that would occur under a higher velocity with a shorter exposure time. For example, and as shown in FIG. 8B, comparing the Raman intensities for the recirculation and single pass high velocity it is evident that recirculation results in an increase in intensity comparable, or greater, to the single pass condition. This observation agrees with the new FTIR peaks that were observed for the glucose during recirculation (FIG.4B).

[0185] Differing from the FTIR that new peaks were detected after the magnetic treatment, no new peak was observed and there was only one relatively small change in the Raman spectra for urea at a λ of about 1000 cm–1(FIG.8B) under the conditions tested. The change, for example an additional peak with low intensity, may indicate a difference in the vibration of the C–N bond and / or formation of a new C–N–H bond. This change became more prevalent with continued cycling of the urea solution through the magnetic system, indicating the importance of the number of magnetic fields or time of exposure to the magnetic fields in determining the observed outcome. Such formation of new peaks or increase in the intensity indicated a potential increase in base energy states that with the same Raman laser input, the responses to the Raman were stronger or induced new excitation of a new peak. Though as aforementioned, the time of exposure and velocity were interrelated, the increase in Raman intensity was in accordance with the increase of exposure duration based upon crossed comparison of the changes in intensity between that of the lower velocity with longer duration and that of higher velocity with short duration.

[0186] For example, with a longer exposure at a velocity of ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec, which was collected after about 20 min of the treatment, the intensity of Raman signature presented a 6 times higher count (about 50,000) compared with that of the ones treated for about 2 minutes (about 8,000). An increase in velocity (^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec) did not lead to a more significant increase of Raman intensity after ^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec (FIG.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 8B). In addition, the increase due to the outlier velocity (^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec) was determined to be not as significant compared with that of the samples exposed to magnetic fields for a longer time at the high velocity (^^^of about 31.1 cm / sec).

[0187] The observed increase in the Raman intensity of the treated urea may suggest that structural changes in the molecule(s) had occurred. One potential pathway by which the Raman intensity may be strengthened includes through the formation of different rovibronic states of the urea molecule. Passage through the magnetic system may also have increased the degree of modes of vibration, for example, mode of N–H. Movements of electron spins under the magnetic field may potentially lead to generation of an electron spin flow, with such flow of electron spins could result in new and / or stronger mechanical vibration of the bonds, and this type of spin flow may potentially occur in spin of nuclei as well.

[0188] Another indication from the increased intensity of the urea was that the polarizability within the bond of urea may increase. Passage through the magnetic system may increase the polarizability of the urea molecules through induction of magnetic dipole moments. This may be proportional to the strengths of the magnetic fields.

[0189] The observed increases in Raman intensity also suggested that the degree of protonation and / or hydration of urea may be reduced or eliminated. Here, a decrease in the extent of protonation and / or hydration would increase the measured Raman intensity. Changes in ion hydration has been confirmed using this magnetic system in earlier efforts. Besides, energy states of the organic molecules may potentially increase due to the induced the magnetic energy as stated in Eq.1.7 and previous studies. The increased energy states of a molecule may spark off less energy required to excite to a stronger vibration or to a higher vibration mode (namely changing the types of bonds, for example, C–H to N–H), which may therefore lead to easier breakage and / or transformation of the molecules. And such changes may occur in molecules sharing similar properties, for example, molecules that present the same or similar bonds and spin states.

[0190] The molecular weight of urea was measured using MALDI-TOF as shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. The MALDI-TOF presented the weight of molecules existing in the samples. While the peak of urea is theoretically at 60.06 m / z as it has a molecular weight of 60.06 g / mol, peaks at a mass-to-charge ratio higher than 60.06 m / z could be found depending on formation of urea clusters or a mass-to-charge ratio lower than 60.06 m / z might be observed due to fragmentations caused by gaining energy from MALDI-TOF.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0191] The MALDI-TOF analysis indicated that after the magnetic field treatments, there were more materials with a higher a mass-to-charge ratio (m / z), such as the samples treated at a ^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec. These materials may be the formation of heavier molecules and / or clusters of urea molecules. In addition, more potential fragments were detected for samples treated at a ^^^of about 46.8 cm / sec. The fragments, which had a mass- to-charge ratio lower than 60.06 m / z, could potentially be smaller molecules formed due to absorbance of energy from MALDI-TOF.

[0192] Formation of the heavier molecules and / or urea clusters indicated a higher overall energy state of nexus of molecules since the larger molecules and clusters consisted of higher energy, which was confirmed by the Raman. Such changes in the energy states supported the observations made for the glucose. Moreover, the formation of the lighter molecules implied that an increase in the molecular energy state had occurred, in agreement with the glucose results.

[0193] Overall, the urea (a molecule comprising a carbamide functional group) structurally degraded or broke by passage through the flow-through magnetic apparatus. 4.3. Alteration in Glutaraldehyde Properties upon Exposure to Magnetic Energy

[0194] Glutaraldehyde ((CH2)3(CHO)2) removal / transformation upon passage through a multi-directional magnetic field was evaluated using the same apparatus and protocols used for the two natural organic molecules (glucose, urea). A ball and stick model for glutaraldehyde is shown in FIG.10. The chemical structure of glutaraldehyde is:

[0195] The glutaraldehyde molecule is characterized by 2 double bonds between the terminal carbon atoms and oxygen atoms, 4 rotatable bonds, and 2 aldehydes.

[0196] A single flow velocity was studied (^^^of about 7.8 cm / sec) in addition to control experiments where the glutaraldehyde solution passed through the entirety of the magnetic system except for conduits that contained the magnets. Glutaraldehyde concentrations in influent to, and effluent from, the magnetic system were measured using Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS, Thermo Scientific Trace 1310 Gas Chromatograph and ISQ 7000 Single Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer) method.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0197] No changes in the GC-MS spectra were observed for the glutaraldehyde when it was not passed through the flow-through magnetic system. This indicated that any natural decay of the glutaraldehyde was negligible when dosed into the test solution and during the duration of the experiment and sample analysis (about 1 hour).

[0198] When passing the glutaraldehyde solution dispersed in a weak electrolyte solution (Table 2) through the magnetic system at a flow velocity of about 7.8 cm / sec, the glutaraldehyde concentration decreased from about 156 ng / µL to about 19 ng / µL. This was indicated by a decrease in the area under the curve at the primary retention time peak (about 11.036 min) in the GC-MS spectra for the influent and effluent samples. Additionally, there was an emergence of new peaks for treated glutaraldehyde samples after passing through the magnetic system. These new retention time peaks were located at about 1.03 minutes, about 12.912 minutes, and about 16.565 minutes.

[0199] The decrease in glutaraldehyde concentration based on the GC-MS analyses indicated that the glutaraldehyde molecules were transformed into simpler, yet unidentified, transformation products. It was also found that the overall total organic carbon (TOC) concentration of the treated water remained relatively constant from the influent to the effluent (about 450 mg / L ± 1.62 mg / L). This suggested that the glutaraldehyde was transformed and not fully mineralized. That is, the data suggested that the spatial arrangement of the atoms that make up the glutaraldehyde was altered.

[0200] Overall, the results indicated that the glutaraldehyde was transformed upon passing through the flow-through magnetic apparatus as shown by the decrease in concentration, and the GC-MS data confirmed that the glutaraldehyde was reduced by passing it through the system. Here, the glutaraldehyde (an organic molecule comprising an aldehyde functional group) dissociated. 5. Non-limiting Conclusions

[0201] Transformation of organic molecules is of importance in various areas, such as water and wastewater treatment, as well as organic synthesis. Such transformations by conventional technologies require the use of chemical and / or external energy input. As described herein, magnetic fields may be utilized to alter organic materials as a non- chemical approach. The study presented herein examines, for example, the role of passage through multidirectional magnetic fields (B = about 1.35 T) in altering various properties of organic molecules, which included differences in bonds and relevant energy states. In somePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 examples, glucose and urea were used as example organic molecules for the non-limiting studies presented herein.

[0202] It was found that the passage through a magnetic field may induce a difference in the organic materials that upon flowing through the magnetic field, the chemical shift of glucose molecules changed such that the ratio of α-D-glucose to β-D-glucose shifted from about 1:1.725 to about 1:1.537.

[0203] Additionally, the changes in the organic materials were determined to be in accordance with the increase in velocity of passing through the magnetic fields. As velocities rose from about 7.8 cm / sec to about 31.1 cm / sec, the difference in mass to charge ratio of glucose varied, whereby as the velocity increased, smaller particles were found (from ~200 m / z to <64 m / z).

[0204] The FTIR results indicated a new bond structure of glucose posterior to the treatment such that new peaks were found at wavelengths of about 2854 cm–1, about 2926 cm–1, and about 2954 cm–1. The findings of urea agreed with that of glucose.

[0205] Further, the findings may suggest that flow-through velocity and residence time in the magnetic fields are two interrelated parameters. Here, a short exposure time with a higher velocity under the magnetic field may result in a similar extent of changes in the materials as that under a longer exposure time with a lower velocity. The observed changes in the molecules may suggest differences in related energy states of the molecules, which was supported by the theoretical assessment correlating the magnetic energy and organic molecular energy states. It was an implication of applying the magnetic field to various fields in which organic transformation was involved.

[0206] Passage through magnetic fields transformed the organic structures studied herein. The degree of transformation may be a function of the bond energies that constitute each molecule and the design and operation of the magnetic system. Determinant system parameters may include the strength of the magnetic field, field gradient between magnet pairs, flow velocity through the system, and exposure time, among others. For the latter two parameters, the degree of transformation that is realized may be rate dependent functions. Higher velocities may have higher transformation rates, while longer residence times at lower velocities may have slower transformation rates but with a similar extent. Accordingly, magnetic field based technologies may be used as a tool for affecting the properties of organic structures in, for example, aqueous media.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0207] Overall, the examples illustrate a predictive energy model for magnetically assisted alteration or transformation of a conductive substance. As described herein, aspects of the present disclosure may be used as a tool to assist in generating energy to alter one or more properties of a conductive substance, to transform a conductive substance, or to generate a new substance. 6. Example: Magnetic Field Modeling of a Flow-Through Magnetic Apparatus

[0208] In some aspects, which may be combined with other aspects, the magnets of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus may apply a magnetic field (~10,000 oersted (Oe)) to a fluid flowing through a helically patterned volume. The analysis of such a system includes understanding the hydrodynamics (physics of fluids in motion) and magneto- dynamics (physics of magnetics in motion). The combination is the study of magneto- hydrodynamics.

[0209] COMSOL was utilized to model the interactions of these physical systems. Studies included single physics simulations, modeling one property of the system at a time. The AutoCAD modeling images presented in FIGS.11A-11C show a fully modeled conduit of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus, with its magnets arranged in the helical pattern outside the diameter. The magnets are inserted into the sleeves along the tube length, allowing for fluids flowing through the tube to be exposed to high magnetic field, in a variety of geometries.

[0210] Hydrodynamic properties of water flowing through the conduit may be “visualized”, allowing characterization of the surface pressure (in units of Pascal, FIGS. 12A and 12B) and characterization of the flow behavior around the obstructions (shading indicates flow velocity). The modeling images of FIGS. 12A-12D were modeled as a turbulent flow, accounting for swirling and other non-ideal behavior (conditions: 90 gallons per minute flow, 6 foot conduit, and 25 cavity obstructions). “m” of 0.5, 1, and 1.5 is the distance in meters along the conduit.

[0211] The modeling images shown in FIGS.12A-12D were sliced to give view cross- sections of the relevant data. Here, the same model is sliced in half, and presents the geometry (FIG. 13A), the pressure (FIG.13B), the constant velocity surfaces (FIG. 13C), and the flow lines (FIG. 13D). Such modeling enables the investigation of the fluid dynamics in detail throughout the model. Note that the pressure in (FIG.13B) is plotted on a linear scale.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0212] Applying high magnetic fields where the magnets are arranged in the helical pattern (FIG. 14A) as the water flows through the conduit of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus can be applied in various ways, including flux squeezing (FIG. 14B), helical poles (FIG. 14C), among others. The magnets may be oriented to achieve either geometry.

[0213] For flux squeezing, as shown in FIG.14B, the magnets may be arranged so that poles are aligned along the arrow, but with alternating orientation. This creates “flux squeezing” as North-North and South-South pole repulsion dominates the volume the water occupies. For helical poles, as shown in FIG. 14C, the magnets may be arranged so that poles are perpendicular to the arrow, rotating around it. This creates helically oriented poles, rotating with the flow of the water in the volume.

[0214] FIGS.15A-15E show modeled magnetic flux confinement / squeezing caused by magnets of a conduit of an example flow-through magnetic apparatus. While the magnets are oriented in a helical pattern (FIG.15A and 15D), the fields are oriented along the flow direction, in repelling orientations (North-North and South-South). This causes the fluid to travel through volumes of high magnetic field, with opposite polarity as the fluid travels through a conduit of a flow-through apparatus. The constant surface plots (FIGS.15B, 15C, and 15E) display the magnetic scalar potential of the system. This alternates between high positive and high negative fields along the chain. As shown, the intensity is highest near the radial center of the system.

[0215] FIGS. 16A-16C show modeled data for the helical magnetic field: FIG. 16A) view of the magnets arranged in the helical pattern; FIG.16B) constant surface plot of the magnetic scalar potential in the same profile view; and FIG. 16C) end cut view of the magnetic field scalar potential cross-section. As shown by FIGS. 16A-16C, while the magnets are oriented in the same helical pattern, the fields are oriented perpendicular to the primary flow direction. This creates two domains of positive and negative field along the whole length of the conduit that spirals with the flow direction.

[0216] Aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to apparatus and methods for magnetically assisted treatment and / or transformation of a substance. Overall, aspects described herein may enable transformation of, for example, an organic substance by use of a magnetic field.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 Aspects Listing

[0217] The present disclosure provides, among others, the following aspects, each of which may be considered as optionally including any alternate aspects:

[0218] Aspect 1. An apparatus for inducing an alteration or transformation in a target, the apparatus comprising: a conduit through which a conductive target flows, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, the conduit comprising a first end, a second end, and a flow path connecting the first end and the second end; one or more containers; and one or more magnets that form a magnetic field through which the conductive target flows, the one or more magnets positioned within an interior of the conduit, each of the one or more magnets housed within a container of the one or more containers, the magnetic field having magnetic energy, wherein the magnetic energy induces an alteration or transformation in the conductive target, the alteration or transformation induced in the absence of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

[0219] Aspect 2. The apparatus according to Aspect 1, wherein the conductive target is in the form of a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.

[0220] Aspect 3. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), facilitates dissociation of the conductive target, facilitates ionization of the conductive target, facilitates mineralization of the conductive target, or combinations thereof.

[0221] Aspect 4. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), alters an atomic property of the conductive target, alters a molecular property of the conductive target, dehydrates an ion present in the conductive target, or combinations thereof.

[0222] Aspect 5. The apparatus according to Aspect 4, wherein the molecular property of the conductive target comprises a bond length, a bond energy, a bond angle, a spin state, an energy state, or combinations thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0223] Aspect 6. The apparatus according to any one of Aspects 4-5, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive target alters a mesoscale property of the conductive target.

[0224] Aspect 7. The apparatus according to Aspect 6, wherein the mesoscale property of the conductive target comprises a dynamic viscosity, a surface tension, a density, a vapor pressure, hydrogen bonding, a viscosity, a permeability, a solubility, a density, a surface tension, a polarity, a pH, a conductivity, a reactivity, a thermal conductivity, an enthalpy, an entropy, a boiling point, a vapor point, or combinations thereof.

[0225] Aspect 8. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), is of sufficient energy to increase an energy state of the conductive target, increase a polarizability of the conductive target, or combinations thereof.

[0226] Aspect 9. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), is of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive target.

[0227] Aspect 10. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid comprising a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.

[0228] Aspect 11. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof): facilitates dissociation of the conductive fluid, facilitates ionization of the conductive target, mineralization of the conductive fluid, or combinations thereof; and / or alters an atomic property of the conductive fluid, alters a molecular property of the conductive fluid, dehydrates an ion present in the conductive fluid, or combinations thereof.

[0229] Aspect 12. The apparatus according to Aspect 11, wherein the molecular property of the conductive fluid comprises a bond length, a bond energy, a bond angle, a spin state, an energy state, or combinations thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0230] Aspect 13. The apparatus according to any one of Aspects 11-12, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive fluid alters a mesoscale property of the conductive fluid.

[0231] Aspect 14. The apparatus according to Aspect 13, wherein the mesoscale property of the conductive fluid comprises a dynamic viscosity, a surface tension, a density, a vapor pressure, hydrogen bonding, a viscosity, a permeability, a solubility, a density, a surface tension, a polarity, a pH, a conductivity, a reactivity, a thermal conductivity, an enthalpy, an entropy, a boiling point, a vapor point, or combinations thereof.

[0232] Aspect 15. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein, when the apparatus comprises more than one magnet, the magnets are positioned in a helical arrangement along the flow path.

[0233] Aspect 16. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein the one or more magnets are permanent magnets, electromagnets, or combinations thereof.

[0234] Aspect 17. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein: the one or more magnets within the one or more containers are configured to enhance fluid dynamics, increase turbulence, increase ion mobility, increase cavitation, or combinations thereof within the conduit; the apparatus further comprises a flow-regulating mechanism to pump the conductive target through the conduit; or a combination thereof.

[0235] Aspect 18. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein: the conductive target is a fresh conductive target or a recirculated conductive target; when the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid is a fresh conductive fluid or a recirculated conductive fluid; a strength of the magnetic field is in a range from about 0.1 Tesla to about 10 Tesla; or combinations thereof.

[0236] Aspect 19. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein:PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 the organic molecule comprises a saccharide (e.g., a hexose, a pentose, or combinations thereof), a polysaccharide, a hydrocarbon (e.g., natural gas), an aldehyde functional group (e.g., glutaraldehyde), a carbamide functional group (e.g., urea), a thiol functional group, a thioether functional group, an alcohol functional group, an ether functional group, an ester functional group, an amine functional group, an amide functional group, an alkane, or combinations thereof; the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid comprising water; or combinations thereof.

[0237] Aspect 20. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding Aspects, wherein: when the organic molecule comprises a saccharide (for example, glucose), the apparatus produces sufficient energy to break a glycosidic bond of the saccharide; when the organic molecule comprises an aldehyde functional group (for example, glutaraldehyde), the apparatus produces sufficient energy to dissociate the organic molecule comprising the aldehyde functional group; when the organic molecule comprises a carbamide functional group (for example, urea), the apparatus produces sufficient energy to structurally degrade or break the organic molecule comprising the carbamide functional group; or combinations thereof.

[0238] Aspect 21. A method, comprising: flowing a conductive target through a conduit, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule; and exposing the conductive target to magnetic energy while flowing the conductive target through the conduit, wherein, as the conductive target is exposed to the magnetic energy, an alteration or transformation is induced in the flowing conductive target without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

[0239] Aspect 22. The method according to Aspect 21, wherein the magnetic energy to which the conductive target is exposed by passing through a magnetic field is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0: ,PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field; ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field; ^^^^^is effective mass of the relevant particle; ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the conductive target; ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive target; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is temperature of the conductive target; ^^^is magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6H / m); ^^↑, ↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounts for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in the conduit containing magnets.

[0240] Aspect 23. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-22, further comprising: adjusting a flow velocity of the conductive target flowing in the conduit; adjusting a temperature of the conductive target flowing in the conduit; adjusting a hydraulic pressure within the conduit; adjusting a residence time in which the conductive target is exposed to the magnetic energy in the conduit; or combinations thereof.

[0241] Aspect 24. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-23, wherein the conductive target is in the form of a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.

[0242] Aspect 25. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-24, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof): facilitates dissociation of the conductive target, facilitates ionization of the conductive target, mineralization of the conductive target, or combinations thereof; is of sufficient energy to increase an energy state of the conductive target, increase a polarizability of the conductive target, or combinations thereof; is of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive target; or combinations thereof.

[0243] Aspect 26. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-25, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), alters an atomic property ofPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 the conductive target, alters a molecular property of the conductive target, dehydrates an ion present in the conductive target, or combinations thereof.

[0244] Aspect 27. The method according to Aspect 26, wherein the molecular property of the conductive target comprises a bond length, a bond energy, a bond angle, a spin state, an energy state, or combinations thereof.

[0245] Aspect 28. The method according to Aspect 27, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive target alters a mesoscale property of the conductive target.

[0246] Aspect 29. The method according to Aspect 28, wherein the mesoscale property of the conductive target comprises a dynamic viscosity, a surface tension, a density, a vapor pressure, hydrogen bonding, a viscosity, a permeability, a solubility, a density, a surface tension, a polarity, a pH, a conductivity, a reactivity, a thermal conductivity, an enthalpy, an entropy, a boiling point, a vapor point, or combinations thereof.

[0247] Aspect 30. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-29, wherein the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid comprising a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.

[0248] Aspect 31. The method according to Aspect 30, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof): facilitates dissociation of the conductive fluid, facilitates ionization of the conductive target, mineralization of the conductive fluid, or combinations thereof; is of sufficient energy to increase an energy state of the conductive fluid, increase a polarizability of the conductive fluid, or combinations thereof; is of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive fluid; or combinations thereof.

[0249] Aspect 32. The method according to any one of Aspects 30-31, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, an induced EMF, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), alters an atomic property of the conductive fluid, alters a molecular property of the conductive fluid, dehydrates an ion present in the conductive fluid, or combinations thereof.

[0250] Aspect 33. The method according to Aspect 32, wherein the molecular property of the conductive fluid comprises a bond length, a bond energy, a bond angle, a spin state, an energy state, or combinations thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0251] Aspect 34. The method according to any one of Aspects 32-33, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive fluid alters a mesoscale property of the conductive fluid.

[0252] Aspect 35. The method according to Aspect 34, wherein the mesoscale property of the conductive fluid comprises a dynamic viscosity, a surface tension, a density, a vapor pressure, hydrogen bonding, a viscosity, a permeability, a solubility, a density, a surface tension, a polarity, a pH, a conductivity, a reactivity, a thermal conductivity, an enthalpy, an entropy, a boiling point, a vapor point, or combinations thereof.

[0253] Aspect 36. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-35, wherein: the conductive target is a fresh conductive target or a recirculated conductive target; when the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid is a fresh conductive fluid or a recirculated conductive fluid; a strength of the magnetic field is in a range from about 0.1 Tesla to about 10 Tesla; or combinations thereof.

[0254] Aspect 37. The method according to any one of Aspects 21-36, wherein: the organic molecule comprises any organic molecule described herein; the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid comprising water; or a combination thereof.

[0255] Aspect 38. A method, comprising: determining a magnetic energy introduced by a magnetic field on a flowing conductive fluid comprising a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, wherein the magnetic energy is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0 ,wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through a magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field; ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field; ^^^^^is effective mass of the relevant particle; ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the conductive fluid; ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive fluid; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ isPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 temperature of the conductive fluid; ^^^is magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6H / m); ^^↑, ↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounts for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in a conduit through which the conductive fluid flows; determining a magnetic energy associated with the conductive target, wherein the magnetic energy associated with the conductive target is determined by, at least, Eq.1.7: ,wherein: ∆^^ is the magnetic energy associated with the conductive target;is a vicinal magnetic transition of the conductive target as a function of time; ^^ is a bulk temperature of the conductive fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^^is an independent characteristic temperature of the conductive fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is a magnetization of the conductive target under a given magnetic field; ^^^is a temperature dependent magnetization constant for normalization; ^^^is an initial energy state of the conductive target at a given temperature; ^^ is an initial magnetic identity factor for the conductive target; ^^ is a flux factor for the conductive target; and ^^ is a domain wall energy of the conductive target; determining a net energy based on a comparison of ^^^and ∆^^; determining a bond energy of a chemical bond present in the organic molecule that would be altered or transformed based on the net energy; exposing the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target to an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the chemical bond present in the organic molecule; and altering or transforming the conductive target by the exposing the conductive fluid to the operational magnetic energy.

[0256] Aspect 39. The method of Aspect 38, wherein the altering or transforming the conductive target by the exposing the conductive fluid to the operational magnetic energy comprises: altering an atomic property of the conductive target; altering a mesoscale property of the conductive target; mineralizing the conductive target; ionizing the conductive target; dissociating the conductive target; orPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 combinations thereof.

[0257] Aspect 40. The method according to any one of Aspects 38-39, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive target alters a mesoscale property of the conductive target.

[0258] Aspect 41. The method according to Aspect 40, wherein the mesoscale property of the conductive target comprises a dynamic viscosity, a surface tension, a density, a vapor pressure, hydrogen bonding, a viscosity, a permeability, a solubility, a density, a surface tension, a polarity, a pH, a conductivity, a reactivity, a thermal conductivity, an enthalpy, an entropy, a boiling point, a vapor point, or combinations thereof.

[0259] Aspect 42. The method according to any one of Aspects 38-41, wherein the operational magnetic energy is determined based on a molecular dynamics simulation using ^^^, ∆^^, and the net energy as inputs for the molecular dynamics simulation.

[0260] Aspect 43. The method according to any one of Aspects 38-42, further comprising: adjusting a flow velocity of the conductive fluid flowing in the conduit; adjusting a temperature of the conductive fluid flowing in the conduit; adjusting a hydraulic pressure within the conduit; adjusting a residence time in which the conductive fluid is exposed to the magnetic energy in the conduit; or combinations thereof.

[0261] Aspect 44. A method, comprising: identifying a bond energy of at least one bond present in a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule; determining an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the at least one bond present in the organic molecule, the operational magnetic energy determined by inputs comprising: ^^^as determined by Eq. 1.0; and ∆^^ as determined by Eq.1.7; setting a source of magnetic energy to the operational magnetic energy; and exposing the conductive target to the operational magnetic energy while moving a conductive fluid relative to the source of the magnetic energy, the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target.

[0262] Aspect 45. A method, comprising:PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 identifying a bond energy of at least one bond present in a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule; determining an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the at least one bond present in the organic molecule, the operational magnetic energy determined by inputs comprising: ^^^as determined by Eq. 1.0; and ∆^^ as determined by Eq.1.7; and setting a source of magnetic energy to the operational magnetic energy; and exposing the conductive target to the operational magnetic energy while moving the source of magnetic energy relative to a conductive fluid, the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target.

[0263] Aspect 46. An apparatus for inducing an electromotive force (EMF) in a conductive fluid, the apparatus comprising: a conduit through which a conductive fluid flows, the conductive fluid comprising a conductive organic molecule, the conduit comprising a first end, a second end, and a flow path connecting the first end and the second end; one or more containers; and one or more magnets that form a magnetic field through which the conductive fluid flows, the one or more magnets positioned within an interior of the conduit, each of the one or more magnets housed within a container of the one or more containers, wherein the magnetic field induces an EMF in a flowing conductive fluid, the induced EMF configured to induce nanobubble generation.

[0264] Aspect 47. The apparatus according to Aspect 46, wherein: a velocity of the conductive fluid flowing through the conduit contributes to the induced EMF; the magnetic field contributes to the induced EMF; and / or dimensions of the conduit through which the conductive fluid flows contributes to the induced EMF.

[0265] Aspect 48. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-47, wherein the EMF is induced in the absence of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

[0266] Aspect 49. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-48, wherein: the conductive organic molecule is in the form of a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof; and the conductive fluid is in the form of a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0267] Aspect 50. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-49, wherein: the conductive organic molecule comprises any organic molecule described herein; and / or the conductive fluid comprises water.

[0268] Aspect 51. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-50, wherein the induced EMF alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, a magnetic energy, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), facilitates ionization of the conductive organic molecule, facilitates dissociation of the conductive organic molecule, or a combination thereof.

[0269] Aspect 52. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-51, wherein the induced EMF alone, or in combination with another energy source (for example, a magnetic energy, nanobubble collapse, or a combination thereof), alters an atomic property of the conductive organic molecule, a molecular property of the conductive organic molecule, dehydrates an ion present in the conductive organic molecule, or combinations thereof.

[0270] Aspect 53. The apparatus according to Aspect 52, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive organic molecule alters a mesoscale property of the conductive organic molecule.

[0271] Aspect 54. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-53, wherein the EMF induced is of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive organic molecule, the conductive fluid, or a combination thereof.

[0272] Aspect 55. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-54, wherein, when the apparatus comprises more than one magnet, the magnets are positioned in a helical arrangement along the flow path.

[0273] Aspect 56. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-55, wherein: the one or more magnets are permanent magnets, electromagnets, or combinations thereof; the one or more magnets within the one or more containers are configured to enhance fluid dynamics, increase turbulence, increase ion mobility, increase cavitation, or combinations thereof within the conduit; the apparatus further comprises a flow-regulating mechanism to pump the conductive fluid through the conduit; or combinations thereof.

[0274] Aspect 57. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-56, wherein:PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 the conductive organic molecule is a fresh conductive organic molecule or a recirculated conductive organic molecule; the conductive fluid is a fresh conductive fluid or a recirculated conductive fluid; a strength of the magnetic field is in a range from about 0.1 Tesla to about 10 Tesla; or combinations thereof.

[0275] Aspect 58. The apparatus according to any one of aspects 46-57, wherein a strength of the magnetic field is about 0.1 Tesla or more, about 10 Tesla or less, or combinations thereof.

[0276] Aspect 59. A method, comprising: flowing a conductive fluid through a conduit, the conductive fluid comprising a conductive organic molecule; and exposing the conductive fluid to magnetic energy while flowing the conductive fluid through the conduit, wherein, as the conductive fluid is exposed to the magnetic energy, an electromotive force (EMF) is induced in the flowing conductive fluid without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

[0277] Aspect 60. The method according to Aspect 59, wherein the induced EMF is of sufficient voltage that alters a molecular property of the conductive organic molecule, dehydrates an ion present in the conductive organic molecule, liberates a hydrogen ion from the conductive organic molecule, liberates a hydrogen radical from the conductive organic molecule, or combinations thereof.

[0278] Aspect 61. The method according to any one of Aspects 59-60, wherein the altered molecular property of the conductive organic molecule alters a mesoscale property of the conductive organic molecule.

[0279] Aspect 62. The method according to any one of Aspects 59-61, wherein the induced EMF generates nanobubbles by breaking chemical bonds present in the conductive fluid.

[0280] Aspect 63. The method according to any one of Aspects 59-62, wherein the EMF is a function of a velocity of the conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, dimensions of the conduit through which the conductive fluid flows, and the magnetic energy to which the conductive fluid is exposed.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02

[0281] Aspect 64. The method according to any one of Aspects 59-63, wherein the magnetic energy to which the conductive fluid is exposed by passing through a magnetic field is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0: ,

[0282] wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field; ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field; ^^^^^is effective mass of the relevant particle; ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the conductive fluid; ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive fluid; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is temperature of the conductive fluid; ^^^is magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6H / m); ^^↑, ↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounts for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in the conduit containing magnets.

[0283] Aspect 65. The method according to any one of Aspects 59-64, wherein the magnetic energy to which the conductive fluid is exposed by passing through a magnetic field is determined by, at least, Eq.1.7: ,wherein: ∆^^ is the magnetic energy associated with the conductive organic molecule; Φ^^^^^ is a vicinal magnetic transition of the conductive organic molecule as a function of time; ^^ is a bulk temperature of the conductive fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^^is an independent characteristic temperature of the conductive fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is a magnetization of the conductive organic molecule under a given magnetic field; ^^^is a temperature dependent magnetization constant for normalization; ^^^is an initial energy state of the conductive organic molecule at a given temperature; ^^ is an initial magnetic identity factor for the conductive organic molecule; ^^ is a flux factor for the conductive target; and ^^ is a domain wall energy of the conductive organic molecule.

[0284] Aspect 66. The method according to any one of Aspects 59-65, further comprising: adjusting a flow velocity of the conductive fluid flowing in the conduit; adjusting a temperature of the conductive fluid flowing in the conduit;PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 adjusting a hydraulic pressure within the conduit; adjusting a residence time in which the conductive fluid is exposed to the magnetic energy in the conduit; or combinations thereof.

[0285] Aspect 67. A method, comprising: exposing a flowing conductive fluid to magnetic energy to induce an electromotive force (EMF) in the flowing conductive fluid, the conductive fluid comprising a conductive organic molecule, the EMF of sufficient energy to generate nanobubbles in the flowing conductive fluid, the EMF generated without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs.

[0286] Aspect 68. The method according to Aspect 67, wherein the magnetic energy is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0: ,wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through a magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field; ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field; ^^^^^is effective mass of the relevant particle; ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the conductive fluid; ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive fluid; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is temperature of the conductive fluid; ^^^is magnetic permeability in a vacuum↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounts for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in a conduit through which the conductive fluid flows.

[0287] In the foregoing, reference is made to aspects of the disclosure. However, it should be understood that the disclosure is not limited to specific described aspects. Instead, any combination of the following features and elements, whether related to different aspects or not, is contemplated to implement and practice the disclosure. Furthermore, although aspects of the disclosure may achieve advantages over other possible solutions and / or over the prior art, whether or not a particular advantage is achieved by a given aspect is not limiting of the disclosure. Thus, the foregoing aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages are merely illustrative and are not considered elements or limitations of the appended claims except where explicitly recited in a claim(s). Likewise, reference to “the disclosure” shall not be construed as a generalization of any inventive subject matterPATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 disclosed herein and shall not be considered to be an element or limitation of the appended claims except where explicitly recited in a claim(s).

[0288] As is apparent from the foregoing general description and the specific aspects, while forms of the aspects have been illustrated and described, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it is not intended that the present disclosure be limited thereby. Likewise, the term “comprising” is considered synonymous with the term “including.” Likewise whenever a composition, an element or a group of elements is preceded with the transitional phrase “comprising,” it is understood that we also contemplate the same composition or group of elements with transitional phrases “consisting essentially of,” “consisting of,” “selected from the group of consisting of,” or “Is” preceding the recitation of the composition, element, or elements and vice versa, such as the terms “comprising,” “consisting essentially of,” “consisting of” also include the product of the combinations of elements listed after the term.

[0289] References cited herein are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety to indicate the state of the art as of their publication or filing date and it is intended that this information may be employed herein, if needed, to exclude specific aspects that are in the prior art.

[0290] For purposes of this present disclosure, and unless otherwise specified, all numerical values within the detailed description and the claims herein are modified by “about” or “approximately” the indicated value, and consider experimental error and variations that would be expected by a person having ordinary skill in the art. For the sake of brevity, only certain ranges are explicitly disclosed herein. However, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, as well as, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any other lower limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, in the same way, ranges from any upper limit may be combined with any other upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited. For example, the recitation of the numerical range 1 to 5 includes the subranges 1 to 4, 1.5 to 4.5, 1 to 2, among other subranges. As another example, the recitation of the numerical ranges 1 to 5, such as 2 to 4, includes the subranges 1 to 4 and 2 to 5, among other subranges. Additionally, within a range includes every point or individual value between its end points even though not explicitly recited. For example, the recitation of the numerical range 1 to 5 includes thePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 numbers 1, 1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, 5, among other numbers. Thus, every point or individual value may serve as its own lower or upper limit combined with any other point or individual value or any other lower or upper limit, to recite a range not explicitly recited.

[0291] For purposes of this present disclosure, and unless otherwise specified, the term “coupled” is used herein to refer to elements that are either directly connected or connected through one or more intervening elements. For example, an opening may be directly connected to a fluid passage, or it may be connected to the fluid passage via intervening elements.

[0292] As used herein, the indefinite article “a” or “an” shall mean “at least one” unless specified to the contrary or the context clearly indicates otherwise. For example, aspects comprising “a target” include aspects comprising one, two, or more targets, unless specified to the contrary or the context clearly indicates only one target is included.

[0293] While the foregoing is directed to aspects of the present disclosure, other and further aspects of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, and the scope thereof is determined by the claims that follow.

Claims

PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 Claims What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for inducing an alteration or transformation in a target, the apparatus comprising: a conduit through which a conductive target flows, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, the conduit comprising a first end, a second end, and a flow path connecting the first end and the second end; one or more containers; and one or more magnets that form a magnetic field through which the conductive target flows, the one or more magnets positioned within an interior of the conduit, each of the one or more magnets housed within a container of the one or more containers, the magnetic field having magnetic energy, wherein the magnetic energy induces an alteration or transformation in the conductive target, the alteration or transformation induced in the absence of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conductive target is in the form of a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source: facilitates dissociation of the conductive target; facilitates ionization of the conductive target; facilitates mineralization of the conductive target; alters an atomic property of the conductive target; alters a molecular property of the conductive target; dehydrates an ion present in the conductive target; or combinations thereof.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the molecular property of the conductive target comprises a bond length, a bond energy, a bond angle, a spin state, an energy state, or combinations thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 5. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, when the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source, alters the molecular property of the conductive target, the altered molecular property of the conductive target alters a mesoscale property of the conductive target.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the mesoscale property of the conductive target comprises a dynamic viscosity, a surface tension, a density, a vapor pressure, hydrogen bonding, a viscosity, a permeability, a solubility, a density, a surface tension, a polarity, a pH, a conductivity, a reactivity, a thermal conductivity, an enthalpy, an entropy, a boiling point, a vapor point, or combinations thereof.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source, is of sufficient energy to increase an energy state of the conductive target, increase a polarizability of the conductive target, or combinations thereof.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source, is of sufficient energy to break a chemical bond of the conductive target.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid comprising a liquid, a gas, or a combination thereof.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the apparatus comprises more than one magnet, the magnets are positioned in a helical arrangement along the flow path.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the one or more magnets within the one or more containers are configured to enhance fluid dynamics, increase turbulence, increase ion mobility, increase cavitation, or combinations thereof within the conduit;PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 the apparatus further comprises a flow-regulating mechanism to pump the conductive target through the conduit; or a combination thereof.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the conductive target is a fresh conductive target or a recirculated conductive target; when the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid is a fresh conductive fluid or a recirculated conductive fluid; a strength of the magnetic field is in a range from about 0.1 Tesla to about 10 Tesla; or combinations thereof.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: the organic molecule comprises a saccharide, a polysaccharide, a hydrocarbon, an aldehyde functional group, a carbamide functional group, a thiol functional group, a thioether functional group, an alcohol functional group, an ether functional group, an ester functional group, an amine functional group, an amide functional group, or combinations thereof; the conductive target is present in a conductive fluid flowing through the conduit, the conductive fluid comprising water; or combinations thereof.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: when the organic molecule comprises a saccharide, the apparatus produces sufficient energy to break a glycosidic bond of the saccharide; when the organic molecule comprises an aldehyde functional group, the apparatus produces sufficient energy to dissociate the organic molecule comprising the aldehyde functional group; when the organic molecule comprises a carbamide functional group, the apparatus produces sufficient energy to structurally degrade or break the organic molecule comprising the carbamide functional group; or combinations thereof.PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 15. A method, comprising: flowing a conductive target through a conduit, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule; and exposing the conductive target to magnetic energy while flowing the conductive target through the conduit, wherein, as the conductive target is exposed to the magnetic energy, an alteration or transformation is induced in the flowing conductive target without use of electrodes or external electrical inputs into the conduit.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the magnetic energy to which the conductive target is exposed by passing through a magnetic field is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0: ,wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field; ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field; ^^^^^is effective mass of the relevant particle; ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the conductive target; ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive target; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is temperature of the conductive target; ^^^is magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6H / m); ^^↑, ↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounts for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in the conduit containing magnets.

17. The method according to claim 15, further comprising: adjusting a flow velocity of the conductive target flowing in the conduit;PATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 adjusting a temperature of the conductive target flowing in the conduit; adjusting a hydraulic pressure within the conduit; adjusting a residence time in which the conductive target is exposed to the magnetic energy in the conduit; or combinations thereof.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source: facilitates dissociation of the conductive target, facilitates ionization of the conductive target, mineralization of the conductive target, or combinations thereof; increases an energy state of the conductive target, increase a polarizability of the conductive target, or combinations thereof; breaks a chemical bond of the conductive target; alters an atomic property of the conductive target; alters a molecular property of the conductive target; dehydrates an ion present in the conductive target; or combinations thereof.

19. The method according to claim 15, wherein, when the magnetic energy alone, or in combination with another energy source alters the molecular property of the conductive target, the altered molecular property of the conductive target alters a mesoscale property of the conductive target.

20. A method, comprising: determining a magnetic energy introduced by a magnetic field on a flowing conductive fluid comprising a conductive target, the conductive target comprising an organic molecule, wherein the magnetic energy is determined by, at least, Eq.1.0 ,wherein: ^^^is the magnetic energy experienced by a particle passing through a magnetic field; ^^ is the strength of a single magnetic field; ^^^^ is the local magnetic field gradient; ^^ is the particle exposure time to the magnetic field; ^^^^^is effective mass of thePATENT Attorney Docket No.: UWYO-0086PC02 relevant particle; ^^^^^is a dimensionless total number of particles in the conductive fluid; ^^ is flow velocity of the conductive fluid; ^^^is Boltzmann’s constant (1.380649×10−23J / K); ^^ is temperature of the conductive fluid; ^^^is magnetic permeability in a vacuum (1.256637×10−6H / m); ^^↑, ↓is the state of spin density of the particle (dimensionless), whose value accounts for the exposure time to the magnetic field; and ^^ is the hydraulic pressure in a conduit through which the conductive fluid flows; determining a magnetic energy associated with the conductive target, wherein the magnetic energy associated with the conductive target is determined by, at least, Eq.1.7: ,wherein: ∆^^ is the magnetic energy associated with the conductiveis a vicinal magnetic transition of the conductive target as a function of time; ^^ is a bulk temperature of the conductive fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^^is an independent characteristic temperature of the conductive fluid passing through the magnetic field; ^^ is a magnetization of the conductive target under a given magnetic field; ^^^is a temperature dependent magnetization constant for normalization; ^^^is an initial energy state of the conductive target at a given temperature; ^^ is an initial magnetic identity factor for the conductive target; ^^ is a flux factor for the conductive target; and ^^ is a domain wall energy of the conductive target; determining a net energy based on a comparison of ^^^and ∆^^; determining a bond energy of a chemical bond present in the organic molecule that would be altered or transformed based on the net energy; exposing the conductive fluid comprising the conductive target to an operational magnetic energy that is greater than the bond energy of the chemical bond present in the organic molecule; and altering or transforming the conductive target by the exposing the conductive fluid to the operational magnetic energy.

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