The Effect of Temperature and Magnetic Field on the Precipitation of Insoluble Salts of Alkaline Earth Metals

A study of the effects induced by a weak magnetic field of about 0.4 T on the precipitation of insoluble alkaline earth carbonates is reported. Optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and fluorescence experiments are employed at 25 °C and 60 °C in either H2O or D2O solutions to explore the role played by temperature and solvent structure on the magnetic effect. The results reveal that the combination of an external magnetic field and high temperature limits the precipitation of scarcely soluble salts with the strongest effect on calcium carbonate.Furthermore, it is found that the magnetic field affects the structure of the solvent molecules in the hydration shells of the ions. The current work represents a step forward in our understanding of the curious effects of magnetic fields on salt precipitation. It may have application in various areas of chemical science, such as water treatment, shale gas extraction, colloid science, biology, and chirality.