Process and device for magnetic activation of water for the production of concrete and mortar using crossed magnetic fields

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device for magnetic activation of water using crossed magnetic fields (DAM) and to a process for magnetic activation of water. The device (DAM) comprises a central inner tube (1) through which water flows and a flange (2) at each end of the tube (1) for coupling to the water flow line, the inner tube (1) being surrounded by an outer tube (3) with a cap (4). This region is provided with a collar of segmented magnets (5) made from Fe–Nd–B, Ba–Fe–O, and Fe–O–Sr, protected by a galvanized sheet metal casing (6), creating crossed magnetic fields. The magnetic activation process involves passing the water through the device (DAM), which alters its physicochemical properties. The resulting magnetized water is used in the manufacture of concrete and mortar, promoting improvements in the properties of the materials.

Description

[0001] PROCESS AND DEVICE FOR MAGNETIC ACTIVATION OF WATER FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CONCRETE AND MORTAR USING CROSSED MAGNETIC FIELDS

[0002] Field of invention

[0003] This patent application refers to a process and device for the magnetic activation of water for the production of concrete and mortar using crossed magnetic fields, applied in the field of civil construction, more specifically in the area of ​​building materials, with the purpose of improving the mechanical properties of concrete and reducing cement consumption, with the advantages of reducing the use of additives and mineral and pozzolanic admixtures, without compromising the quality, durability and final strength of the products.

[0004] Fundamentals of the invention

[0005] With the advancement of technologies and the need to increase efficiency in the civil construction sector, many processes have been developed aiming at more sustainable activities. For example, the development of the magnetic activation process of water for the production of concrete and mortar. Over the last few decades, researchers and engineers have explored many ways to improve the strength and durability of concrete without increasing the consumption of raw materials, such as cement and additives, whose production generates a significant environmental impact. With this in mind, much research using magnetic fields to alter the properties of water has emerged as an innovative solution, with the potential to improve the characteristics of materials in civil construction without compromising their quality, durability, and strength.

[0006] It is already known that as water is magnetized, the molecules reorganize themselves in space in a network-like arrangement resembling the structure of graphene. What happens is that the positive pole of one water molecule interacts with the negative pole of another molecule, similar to what occurs in hydrogen bonding. However, the specific orientation and arrangement of water molecules in space, promoted by magnetization, improves interactions between water and the compounds that make up cement, facilitating and enhancing its hydration. As a result, there is an improvement in the mechanical strength of mortars and pastes present in concrete, increasing durability and, in addition, significantly reducing the amount of cement needed, resulting in an environmentally friendly process that does not compromise the quality of the final product.The use of crossed magnetic fields to activate water used in civil construction, specifically for the production of concrete and mortar, not only reduces the consumption of cement and additives, but also offers a viable technical alternative to meet the modern demands of the sector, within the principles advocated by the guidelines of Global Sustainability, particularly those related to Environment, Social and Governance. This ensures resource savings and improved quality, as described in some relevant previous sections.

[0007] Searches conducted in Brazilian and international patent databases revealed the following findings.

[0008] The subject of US patent 2008277352A1 is a water conditioner that uses magnetic fields generated by permanent magnets to treat water as it passes through a tank equipped with a series of magnets. These magnets, arranged alternately with their north and south poles, create gaps through which the water flow is directed and the water is magnetized.

[0009] Although the patented object fulfills its objectives of magnetically activating water, its design, as described, involves gaps through which water flows between the magnets. These gaps can accumulate debris or encrustations, causing obstruction over time and decreasing its efficiency.

[0010] The subject of patent CN2326594Y discloses a utility model of a magnetic water processing device for concrete that aims to reduce the amount of cement and prevent incrustation. It is made from a structure of magnetic blocks arranged on the inner wall of a tube-shaped casing where the homopolar magnetic poles of the blocks are in an adjacent arrangement. The magnetic blocks are divided into a low magnetic field zone and a high magnetic field zone, and both ends of the tube-shaped casing are provided with connecting flanges.

[0011] The object of this utility model patent fulfills its objectives; however, in addition to its difficult portability, the spacing areas between the magnets can contribute to a loss of efficiency in the process, since these areas can also be obstructed by debris or deposits.

[0012] The subject of patent CN2151145Y is a permanent device for magnetizing concrete mixing water. An adjustment valve, a flow meter, and a water magnetizer are connected in series in a water inlet pipe. The water magnetizer mainly comprises an alloy made of Al-Ni-Co (aluminum-nickel-cobalt), a water inlet pipe, and an outer casing. The outer casing is lined in the central part outside a water guide tube, enclosing the Al-Ni-Co inside the outer casing. The magnetization device has the advantages of simple structure, large water flow, erosion resistance, portability, convenient operation, and good magnetization effect. The use of the water magnetizer can increase the compressive strength of the concrete product by more than 10% or save cement by more than 5%.

[0013] The device presented in the patent in question also fulfills its objectives. However, the effectiveness of water magnetization may be affected because the Al-Ni-Co alloy has a lower magnetizing effect compared to materials such as Fe-Nd-B (neodymium-iron-boron), Ba-Fe-O (barium-iron-oxygen), or Fe-O-Sr (strontium-iron-oxygen). Furthermore, the device includes an adjustment valve and a flow meter in series, items that can increase the system's complexity and the possibility of mechanical failures.

[0014] The subject of patent BR102020016174A2, the predecessor to the present patent application, presents a process and device for the magnetic activation of water, specifically aimed at the production of concrete and mortar, adjusted according to the needs of each work or project. The process involves the following steps: i) providing an initial flow of water; ii) measuring at least one parameter of this flow (such as temperature or pressure); iii) directing the water to a magnetic activation region adjusted based on the measured parameters; and iv) removing the activated water. The entire water flow, from inlet to outlet, is maintained in laminar flow, which can optimize magnetic activation.

[0015] Although the predecessor patent fulfilled its objectives and presented good results, it still has some limitations, such as in the magnetic activation region itself, generating poorly distributed fields. Therefore, the activation may be less effective, directly interfering with the results to be obtained, which have been improved as described in this present patent application.

[0016] Prior inventions presented the following problems and technical shortcomings, which have been resolved by the present invention, as shown below:

[0017] Water magnetic activation regions in the device with gaps or spacing that decrease process efficiency by obstructing water flow with debris or deposits. Solved by configuring the device with a magnetic activation region featuring a plurality of magnets positioned externally to the tube and with cross-magnetization, generating mutually perpendicular fields and a resultant field oriented towards the center of the pipe and perpendicular to the flow; Water magnetizer comprising an Al-Ni-Co alloy, which exhibits lower efficiency in the magnetization process. Solved by inserting Fe-Nd-B, Ba-Fe-O, or Fe-O-Sr magnets, or a combination thereof, which exhibit greater magnetic field intensity, increasing the device's efficiency;

[0018] Poorly distributed magnetic fields in the device directly affect the efficiency of the activation process. This was resolved by inserting a plurality of externally housed magnets, which generate crossed magnetic fields resulting in a magnetic field oriented towards the center of the pipe, perpendicular to the water flow, maximizing the magnetic activation process of the water.

[0019] This patent application originated from a group of researchers and engineers in the civil construction field who, for years, investigated ways to improve the quality of concrete and mortar by modifying the properties of the water used in the mixing process. While studying the state of the art, they realized that the magnetic activation of water had already been explored, being reported in scientific articles and other similar devices. However, the available solutions presented limitations, such as the use of less efficient magnetic alloys, like Al-Ni-Co, and ineffective control over the intensity of the applied magnetic fields. In an attempt to overcome these limitations, the researchers joined forces with a group of entrepreneurs in the construction sector who saw great potential in this technology, capable of saving raw materials and increasing the strength of concrete without compromising the environment.

[0020] The first prototype of the magnetic water activation device developed by researchers in partnership with entrepreneurs resulted in patent application BR102020016174A2, which is the parent patent for the present invention. The technology showed success in modifying certain properties of water and improving the final performance of construction materials, such as mechanical resistance and a reduced amount of cement. Although the initial results were promising, it became clear that further adjustments would be necessary to increase the efficiency and consistency of the magnetic treatment, such as enhancing the generated field.

[0021] The present version of the device, presented here, solves many of the problems previously encountered. After extensive research, the researchers found that introducing crossed magnetic fields could increase the homogeneity and potentiation of the water activation process. They also replaced traditional magnetic alloys with more efficient materials, such as Fe-Nd-B magnets and Ba-Fe-O and Sr-Fe-O compounds. These magnets provide stronger and more stable magnetic fields, significantly improving the magnetic activation of water and, consequently, the properties of the final concrete. Now, with the use of more efficient magnets, specifically arranged for precise control of crossed magnetic fields, the device achieves new and unexpected effects. As a result, it reaches performance levels that bring greater economy and quality to both small and large-scale projects.

[0022] Brief description of the drawings

[0023] For a better understanding of the present patent, the following figures are attached: illustrates the front view of the magnetic water activation device with crossed magnetic fields (DAM); illustrates the side view in section of the magnetic water activation device with crossed magnetic fields (DAM); illustrates the enlargement of the region of plurality of magnets for water activation in the magnetic water activation device with crossed magnetic fields (DAM).

[0024] Description of the invention

[0025] The magnetic activation device for water with crossed magnetic fields (DAM) has a central inner tube (1) through which the water flows, and has a flange (2) at each end of the tube (1) for coupling to the water flow line. The magnetic activation device for water with crossed magnetic fields (DAM) also has an outer tube (3) with a cover (4), which protects the magnetic activation region of the water, which is equipped with a segmented collar magnet (5) of Fe-Nd-B, Ba-Fe-O and Fe-O-Sr, arranged in such a way as to guarantee the cross-flow of the magnetic fields, protected by a galvanized sheet enclosure (6).

[0026] The process of magnetic activation of water consists of the following steps:

[0027] Insert the magnetic water activation device with crossed magnetic fields (DAM) into the water flow line;

[0028] Measure at least one initial parameter of the water, before it passes through the magnetic activation region of the device (DAM), chosen from: hardness, or conductivity, or pH, or surface tension, or viscosity; Measure the same parameter(s) of the water as in step b), after passing through the device, in order to verify if there was effective magnetization, through changes in the physicochemical properties of the water to be used in the manufacture of concrete or mortar;

[0029] To apply magnetized water in the manufacture of mortar or concrete;

[0030] Measure at least one parameter of the mortar or concrete manufactured with magnetized water, chosen from: consistency, or plasticity, or compressive strength, or water retention, or drying shrinkage, or type of cement used, or type of aggregate used, or type of pozzolanic admixture;

[0031] Use the measured parameters to verify the improvement in the properties of concrete and mortar manufactured with magnetized water, and benefit from these to define the ideal application conditions or adjust the proportions of the mixture components.

[0032] Examples of embodiments of the invention

[0033] Seeking to validate the efficiency of the device (DAM) and the process, the inventors carried out different tests evaluating the aforementioned parameters for concrete or mortar:

[0034] Test 1 - Reducing Cement Consumption with Magnetized Water:

[0035] In a large-scale project, a magnetic water activation device with crossed magnetic fields (DAM) was installed in the water supply line used in the concrete mix. Before treatment, the water had a hardness of 200 mg / L of CaCCL. After passing through the device (DAM), the hardness was reduced to 160 mg / L, indicating a change in the physicochemical properties of the water. With the magnetized water, it was possible to reduce cement consumption in the concrete mix by 10% without compromising compressive strength. The improved dispersion of cement particles in the treated water increased hydration efficiency, resulting in denser and stronger concrete, even with a lower amount of cement.

[0036] Test 2 - Increasing Plasticity and Water Retention in Mortar

[0037] In the production of mortar for interior plastering, water treated with a magnetized water device (DAM) was used in the preparation of the mixture. The plasticity of the mortar, measured through the consistency test, showed a significant improvement compared to mortar made with untreated water. The magnetized water favored a more uniform distribution of cement particles, which provided greater fluidity and workability of the mortar, with an 8% reduction in the amount of cement used. Furthermore, the tests showed a 15% increase in water retention in the mortar, which contributed to a better curing process and a lower tendency for drying shrinkage.

[0038] Test 3 - Improvements in Compression Strength and Sustainability

[0039] Concrete produced with magnetized water was used in structural blocks for compressive strength testing. The water treated by the device (DAM) allowed for more efficient cement hydration, leading to a more compact microstructure in the concrete. Concrete blocks prepared with 12% less cement (due to magnetized water) showed a 7% increase in compressive strength compared to blocks made with the standard amount of cement and untreated water. This result demonstrates that the use of magnetized water not only improves the mechanical performance of concrete but also contributes to a more sustainable approach, reducing cement consumption and, consequently, CO2 emissions associated with its production.

[0040] Based on the tests performed, it is possible to conclude that the magnetic water activation device with crossed magnetic fields (DAM) promotes significant improvements in the properties of water used in the production of concrete and mortar, resulting in greater efficiency in cement use and improvements in important parameters such as plasticity, water retention, and compressive strength. The reduction of up to 12% in cement use, combined with an increase of up to 7% in compressive strength, indicates that the magnetic treatment of water optimizes the cement hydration process, providing a more homogeneous distribution of particles and a denser formation of the concrete microstructure.

[0041] These results can be attributed to the specific configuration of the crossed magnetic fields in the device (DAM), which interact with water molecules, temporarily modifying their physicochemical properties. Unlike previous technologies that used one-dimensional magnetic fields, the device (DAM) with crossed fields creates a more efficient magnetic activation environment, ensuring a deeper and longer-lasting effect on the water structure. This innovation results in improved compatibility between water and cement components, generating better working and curing properties, even with reduced cement consumption.

[0042] This improvement over previous inventions, especially the predecessor patent BR102020016174A2, highlights the innovation potential of magnetized water magnetization (DAM) in the construction sector, particularly in a scenario where sustainability and reducing environmental impact are priorities. The possibility of producing high-quality concrete with lower cement consumption not only reduces production costs but also decreases the amount of pollutants generated in the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the continuous development of this technology, focusing on improving crossed magnetic fields, can result in even more efficient processes, expanding the applications of magnetized water to other materials and industrial sectors.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. DEVICE FOR MAGNETIC ACTIVATION OF WATER FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CONCRETE AND MORTAR USING CROSSED MAGNETIC FIELDS, characterized by comprising a central inner tube (1), through which water flows; a flange (2) at each end of the tube (1) for coupling to the water flow line; an outer tube (3) with a cap (4), which encloses and protects the magnetic activation region; a segmented collar magnet (5) of Fe-Nd-B, Ba-Fe-0 and Fe-O-Sr, disposed in the magnetic activation region of the outer tube (3), around the central inner tube (1), and protected by a galvanized sheet metal enclosure (6).

2. DEVICE FOR MAGNETIC ACTIVATION OF WATER FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CONCRETE AND MORTAR USING CROSSED MAGNETIC FIELDS, according to claim 1, characterized by the segmented collar magnet (5) of Fe-Nd-B, Ba-Fe-O and Fe-O-Sr being configured in such a way that the magnetic poles are oriented alternately to create crossed magnetic fields.

3. PROCESS FOR MAGNETIC ACTIVATION OF WATER FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CONCRETE AND MORTAR USING CROSSED MAGNETIC FIELDS, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising the steps of: a) Inserting the magnetic activation device for water with crossed magnetic fields (DAM) into the water flow line; b) Measuring at least one initial parameter of the water, before passing through the magnetic activation region of the device (DAM), the parameter being chosen from: hardness, conductivity, pH, surface tension or viscosity; c) Measuring the same parameter(s) of the water as in step b), after passing through the device, in order to verify if there was effective magnetization, through changes in the physicochemical properties of the water to be used in the manufacture of concrete or mortar.

4. PROCESS FOR MAGNETIC ACTIVATION OF WATER FOR THE PRODUCTION OF CONCRETE AND MORTAR USING CROSSED MAGNETIC FIELDS, according to claim 3, characterized by comprising the steps of: a) Applying magnetically activated water to a mixture of cement, aggregates and additives to prepare concrete and mortar; b) Measuring at least one parameter of the mortar or concrete manufactured with the magnetized water, chosen from: consistency, or plasticity, or compressive strength, or water retention, or drying shrinkage, or type of cement used, or type of aggregate used, or type of pozzolanic addition; c) Use the measured parameters to verify the improvement in the properties of concrete and mortar manufactured with magnetized water, and benefit from these to define the ideal application conditions or adjust the proportions of the mixture components.

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