A state of the art for magnetic based fouling mitigation methods

摘要

Fouling mitigation, using magnets, is a technology that promises so much but still remains a mystery. It has been reported that magnets have been successful in controlling scaling, especially that due to calcium carbonate. In this article, the current state of magnetic based fouling mitigation strategies as found in the literature is presented. Experimental results and modeling efforts of magnetic influence on the scaling process are evaluated. The motivation for the evaluation is to identify key issues that require additional research. Evaluation of literature shows that there is an incomplete understanding of how exactly magnetic fields influence fluid systems. Significant knowledge gaps regarding effects of magnetic fields on (a) fluid flow, (b) elementary processes of scaling (nucleation, crystal growth and morphology). It is also evident that there is no clear agreement regarding the right conditions under which magnetic fields are effective in mitigating against fouling. Therefore, it is suggested that priority be placed on fundamental studies of the influence of magnetic fields on properties of the fluid systems under given conditions.