Magnetic effect on ion-exchange kinetics

Effects of magnetic exposure on an ion-exchange process are investigated, e mploying ion-exchange resins. The electrolyte solution, resin suspension, a nd water are mixed in a container, and the mass transfer coefficient is det ermined by measuring the change of the ionic concentration in the bulk. Two methods of magnetic exposure are performed: case (1) in which only the ele ctrolyte solution is exposed to the magnetic field and case (2) in which on ly the resin suspension is exposed to the magnetic field. The following fea tures are found in both cases: (i) the film mass transfer rate reduces by a bout 5% when the exposure time is greater than 25 min, (ii) the magnetic ef fect is reduced by adding the alcohol, (iii) the magnetic effect remains fo r about 3 days but disappears after 6 days, and (iv) the magnetic effect is observable in the solutions of structure-disordering ions, but not in the solutions of structure-ordering ions. As for the temperature dependence, th e magnetic effect decreases with temperature in case (1) but it stays const ant in case (2). It is postulated that the magnetic effects are attributabl e to the stabilization of water molecules around the structure-ordering ion and those an the resin surface. (C) 1999 Academic Press.