The effect of a magnetic field on the precipitation of calcium carbonate

The effect of a magnetic field on the crystallisation and morphology of CaCO3 in solution was investigated in the 25-80 degrees C temperature range. The samples were analysed using X-ray diffraction, FTIR, SEM analysis and quantitative analysis based on the Rietveld method. It was demonstrated that the magnetic field, which varied from 50 to 175 mT, had an impact on the polymorphs selectivity and their proportions and on the morphology and the sizes of the CaCO3 particles. It also reduced the overall precipitation rate of CaCO3 minerals in the solution. SEM images showed that the magnetic field modifies the shape of the rhombs of calcite as reflected by the destruction of the particles at 25 and 50 degrees C with a considerable decrease in their size at 80 degrees C. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of a magnetic field in reducing the adhesion of calcite to surfaces and thus its possible application in limiting the formation of scale in industrial installations.