magnetized water

[c-ray]

from http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/abstract/112469186/ABSTRACT

Pre-sowing magnetic treatments of tomato seeds increase the growth and yield of plants

A. De Souza 1 *, D. Garcí 1, L. Sueiro 2, F. Gilart 3, E. Porras 1, L. Licea 1
1Laboratory of Non-Ionizing Radiation, Center for Environmental Research, Services and Technologies, Agricultural Research Institute Jorge Dimitrov, Granma, Cuba
2Laboratory of Plant Protection, Center for Environmental Research, Services and Technologies, Agricultural Research Institute Jorge Dimitrov, Granma, Cuba
3National Center for Applied Electromagnetism (CNEA), University of Oriente, Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
email: A. De Souza (angelrdt2002@yahoo.com)


*Correspondence to A. De Souza, Laboratory of Non-Ionizing Radiation, Center for Environmental Research, Services and Technologies, Agricultural Research Institute Jorge Dimitrov, Apartado 33, Bayamo CP 85100, Granma, Cuba.

Keywords
agriculture • total dry matter increase • ELF • magnetic fields • Lycopersicon esculentum • stimulating effect • seed treatment

Abstract

The effects of pre-sowing magnetic treatments on growth and yield of tomato (cv Campbell-28) were investigated under field conditions. Tomato seeds were exposed to full-wave rectified sinusoidal non-uniform magnetic fields (MFs) induced by an electromagnet at 100 mT (rms) for 10 min and at 170 mT (rms) for 3 min. Non-treated seeds were considered as controls. Plants were grown in experimental plots (30.2 m2) and were cultivated according to standard agricultural practices. During the vegetative and generative growth stages, samples were collected at regular intervals for growth rate analyses, and the resistance of plants to geminivirus and early blight was evaluated. At physiological maturity, the plants were harvested from each plot and the yield and yield parameters were determined. In the vegetative stage, the treatments led to a significant increase in leaf area, leaf dry weight, and specific leaf area (SLA) per plant. Also, the leaf, stem, and root relative growth rates of plants derived from magnetically treated seeds were greater than those shown by the control plants. In the generative stage, leaf area per plant and relative growth rates of fruits from plants from magnetically exposed seeds were greater than those of the control plant fruits. At fruit maturity stage, all magnetic treatments increased significantly (P < .05) the mean fruit weight, the fruit yield per plant, the fruit yield per area, and the equatorial diameter of fruits in comparison with the controls. At the end of the experiment, total dry matter was significantly higher for plants from magnetically treated seeds than that of the controls. A significant delay in the appearance of first symptoms of geminivirus and early blight and a reduced infection rate of early blight were observed in the plants from exposed seeds to MFs. Pre-sowing magnetic treatments would enhance the growth and yield of tomato crop. Bioelectromagnetics 27:247-257, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Received: 2 November 2004; Revised: 21 November 2005

[c-ray]

from http://taylorandfrancis.metapress.com/content/t2vkw9ecmdfveu4w/

A STATIC MAGNETIC FIELD OF 125 mT STIMULATES THE INITIAL GROWTH STAGES OF BARLEY (Hordeum vulgare L.)
Journal Electro- and Magnetobiology
Publisher Taylor & Francis
ISSN 1061-9526
Issue Volume 19, Number 3/2000
Category Original
DOI 10.1081/JBC-100102118
Pages 271-277
Online Date Thursday, February 19, 2004


Authors
Elvira Martinez, Maria Victoria Carbonell, Jose Manuel Amaya
Abstract

In this paper the influence of a stationary magnetic field on the initial stages of barley plant development was evaluated. A stationary magnetic field has a stimulating effect on the first stages of growth of barley seeds for all exposure times studied. When germinating barley seeds were subjected to a magnetic field of 125 mT for different times (1, 10, 20, and 60 min, 24 h, and chronic exposure), increases in length and weight were observed. Maximum increases in the measured parameters were obtained when the time of exposure to magnetic field was long (24 h and chronic); however, the exposure for a short time (1 min) had a similar effect on growth.

[c-ray]

from http://taylorandfrancis.metapress.com/content/98n8wj57yv8ktpd9/

MAGNETIC BIOSTIMULATION OF INITIAL GROWTH STAGES OF WHEAT (TRITICUM AESTIVUM, L.)
Journal Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine (formerly Electro- and Magnetobiology)
Publisher Taylor & Francis
ISSN 1536-8378 (Print) 1525-6081 (Online)
Subject Biochemistry and Biophysics
Issue Volume 21, Number 1/2002
Category Original
DOI 10.1081/JBC-120003110
Pages 43-53
Online Date Thursday, February 19, 2004

Authors
E. Martinez, M. V. Carbonell, M. Florez
Abstract

The effect of magnetic treatment on the initial growth stages of wheat was explored under controlled conditions. Treatment involved the application of different magnetic doses (D) established in terms of the magnetic field energy density (ρ m1=6217 or ρ m2=24,868 J/m 3), and the time of exposure (0 min, 1 min, 10 min, 20 min, 1 hr, 24 hr, or chronic exposure). Increased plant height was observed as the magnetic dose increased, with significant differences recorded for most doses. The stimulatory effect found for ρ m2, greater than that obtained for ρ m1, may be related to the amount of energy supplied to the plant tissues by the magnetic field. Chronic exposure of plants provided maximum total length increases of 7.3% (ρ m1) and 30.9% (ρ m2), corresponding to total weight increases of 17.6% and 29.9%, respectively.

[c-ray]

from http://www.actahort.org/members/showpdf?booknrarnr=723_37

EFFECT OF MAGNETIC FIELD ON OCIMUM BASILICUM SEED GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH.
Authors: F. Soltani, A. Kashi, M. Arghavani
Keywords: length, ocimum basilicum, radicle, seed germination

Abstract:
It is well-known that radiation of various wavelengths influences the growth of plants and other organisms in various ways. The earth magnetic field influences the movement and absorption of elements. The effect of magnetic forces on Ocimum basilicum seed germination and seedling growth was studied. The experiment included four treatments, two concentrations of potassium nitrate (2g/L and 3 g/L), the use of a static magnetic field and a control. Results showed that ocimum seeds germinated more rapidly when subjected to a magnetic field. The number of germinated seeds, the length of radicle and primary stem were also significantly higher than without a magnetic field. Also lateral root initiation and growth rate were significantly different in a magnetic field.

[c-ray]

from http://www.hbci.com/%7Ewenonah/hudson/ormusgas.htm

The Effects of "Magnetic Water"

by John V. Milewski
Revised February 10, 2004

About 6 months ago, I started drinking what I call magnetic water as a means of energizing my body. After a month or so, an unusual effect started to show up.

A friend of mine Bob S first noticed it. I had introduced him to the methods of making magnetic water and he under took an experiment and then went a little further with it than I did.

He processed his water for about 5 days and was drinking 3 cups a day, while I was only processing it for 2 to 3 days. He reported to me that his hair was turning dark, especially in the back of his head near the neckline. As time went on, this effect spread upward and moved more toward the front of the head. Now after about 6 month his hair is about 95 % darker in the back and about 80% darker on the sides and front, and his beard about 50% darker.

John hair change At that time, which was about 3 months ago, I started watching my own hair. Before I started drinking what I call "magnetic water" my hair was about 90% gray, and the hair on my beard and mustache was 100% gray. I did not know the effect this energized water could have on one's hair, so I was not watching for it the first few months I was drinking the water. So, when I did first notice it, the hair on the back of my head had already turned about 30% darker. I have now upgraded my processing facility, which makes it possible for me to have "5-day water".

Five-day water is defined as water that remains in the magnetic activation apparatus for a minimum of 5 days. Previous to that I was only using 2 to 3-day water. My wife and I now drink a minimum of 3 cups of this water a day and probably closer 5 to 6 cups.

What is very unusual about these changes is that the whole length of the hair changes at once from gray to dark. It doesn't just start at the root and grow out, but the whole length of the hair turns darker at once. You may have heard stories about people who have experienced a terrible shock in their life and their hair turns white overnight. Well, I believe this magnetic water has the reverse effect on a person, but to a much smaller degree - it occurs slower. It takes months to see the effect, but the positive effect is there and is real. You might say that this is a poor man's fountain of youth.


THE APPARATUS

The apparatus for making this water. The apparatus for making this water is very simple. It consists of using an empty cylinder shape container, like a large oatmeal container, that is about 5 inches in diameter. At the center, an 8-inch long length of a 3-inch diameter mailing tube is placed. In the space between the inner walls of the 5-inch diameter can and the 3-inch diameter mailing tube, the black magnetite sand is poured.

This makes a cylinder of magnetite about 1 inch thick surrounding the 3-inch diameter hole in the center. Into this hole a standard bottle of spring water is placed that is about 710 ml in size - this is about one-pint of water. It fits in very nicely. You put together a minimum of five of these units and allow the process to proceed. Then after five days, you take one bottle out everyday and drink the water and replace it with another.

This gives the water 5 days in these units for magnetic activation. The units should be placed at least 6 inches apart to get maximum concentration of the Earth's magnetic fields.


WHAT IS HAPPENING?

What I think is happening is that the magnetite, which is a strong magnetic susceptor is concentrating the earth's magnetic fields into it's cylindrical shape and the shape effect in turn sets up a magnetic spiral vortex in the core of the cylinder in which the water is stored. This in turn activates the water with this magnetic energy. I think this is the activating force for regeneration changes in our bodies as we drink it. The hair color restoration is the first sign of this regeneration happening. A second sign is that the fingernails are growing faster and stronger and the skin in spots seams to be getting smoother and softer with less skin tags.

A secondary effect is dental improvement. My friend Bob S. needed to go to the dentist to have two molars crowned followed by two root canals. He had been drinking the water for about two months before going to the dentist. The dentist had told him that he was going to have to do two root canals at $475.00 each before he could do the crowns.

When the dentist removed the old fillings he was surprised because he said that where the hole in the root was supposed to be, the molars had filled in calcified! He couldn't believe it! He said he had never seen anything like it. Bob S. was really happy because he saved $950.00! No root canal needed!!!

Another important improvement in the mouth is how it improves the gums. Before I started drinking magnetic water my dental hygienist would measure gum pockets in the 4 to 6 range and my wife's was 5 to 7 range. In six months while drinking the magnetite water the my pockets dropped to the 3 to 5 range and my wife's to the 4 to 6 range then after nine months my pocket dropped to the 2 to 3 range and my wife to the 3 to 5 range now after a year my pockets are all gone, tight gums and my wife's is in the 2 to 4 range. Also, my gums no longer bleed during brushing.

I started a friend of mine on this magnetic water about 3 months ago. To his surprise after a week of taking this water he finally realized that he had stop smoking. He just forgot that he was a smoker and no longer had any desire to do so. He says that for the past 11 years he had been trying to stop but he couldn't do it. Now it just happened on it own as if he never was a smoker. As of this writing - 3 months into the program - he has not started again.

There seams to be some positive spiritual effects also. I know that my intuition is better and my creativity more prolific. A possible sign that supports this idea is that the under side of my big toes have been itching and need of sever rubbing from time to time. If you look at a Reflexology chart you will see that this is the spot for the penile gland. This is your third eye or second site being stimulated. (Intuition maybe?)


WHY IS THS HAPPENING?

I believe that the water activation process results from the stronger magnetic field inside the magnetite cylinder. This field produces clusters in the water producing tetrahedrons and octahedrons molecular shapes. In turn these special sacred geometric shapes act as nesting places for the Orme gases that are always present in the air and water and allow them to stop and nest there (See top of page more information about Ormus gases.)

This in turn brings into the water the special magnetic energies that come with the Ormus atoms. This special energy in turn is food for the soul or spiritual component of man. I believe as many others do that all permanent healing and regeneration first takes place in the spirit and then manifests into the body. So energizing the spirit makes sense.

The Shape of the Magnetite crystal The crystal structure of magnetite is unique and most likely is responsible for these effects. Magnetite is Fe3O4 and it has a basic cubic crystal structure. It manifests as an octahedron structure that looks like two pyramids base-to-base — Sacred geometry?

We see this same octahedron structure in the crystals of the magnetite as it becomes manifested in the clustered water. This then becomes another point or means of energy transfer to the water because both the magnetite and the clustered water have the same basic structure or geometric energy resonance. How convenient! This is just what we want to happen, and it does when we place the water in our magnetite generators.

[dpn]

i want to experiment with resonance and vibrations (not quite magnetism) and the idea that living creatures resonate with a certain frequency (depending on the dna structure) and can be healed with the right range of vibration. Psilocybin and an OHM octave tuning fork set would be an interesting combination :aum:

[capt carnuba]

Lookup Orgone accumulators, I believe it all falls under the umbrella of Wilhelm Reich and his cloudbusting experiments. W.S Burroughs investigated and used alot of these apparati in his constant quest for interzone. His biography is rife with experiments of this nature. However, I call bullshit on the magnetized water, firstly, altering 'dead' hair cells and secondly, being anything but the scavenging effects of low ph, ionized distilled water.


http://www.chem1.com/CQ/gallery.html

[Bram]

capt, you should try using some magnetised water on your plants. The effects are noticeable within the first 10 hrs. Defiencies are dealt with very quickly using mag. water, and the plants will actually regenerate dying leaf tissue as well. Simply amazing stuff.

[outdoordreams]

People claim sleeping under a pyramid with the same angles as the pyramids in Giza, Egypt, will result in natural healing and improved energy!
The pyramid vibrates to the exact frequency of the earth and to the exact frequency of the human hemoglobins.........What is interesting is the hemoglobin is aparently two pyramids base to base!!!

Very interesting thread!!!! Going to have to try it, as I hate dentists!!!!!

So Bram, you have any suggestions on how to make larger batches to feed the plants with??

[capt carnuba]

ODD, use anything from a 9v battery to a car battery. the atoms do the arranging themselves.

[justcurios]

sounds good, i wish there was some magic water for a bad back, ouch. i need some medication.

[Bram]

ODD, it takes some time to make a large batch. Takes at least 4 or so hrs to make 5 gallons.

[c-ray]

this sprout was treated with magic water
looks a little hairy eh?

[justcurios]

so hairy , its scary

[Green Supreme]

Think hairy is from genetics or magic water? Peace GS

[c-ray]

we'll see...I'll try a few different genetics

[Green Supreme]

Cool

[Irie1]

Great thread! Anyone tried this on their whole reservoir?

[The Cannarchist]

How about getting two copper strips,putting one at the top and one at the bottom of the pot,then using a 9v battery to run current through.......the moisture content should be enough to get an alignment?

[c-ray]

the question is if magnetism and electricity impart similar or different forces

[c-ray]

check out post #2 here:
https://www.cannabis-world.org/cw/showthread.php?t=659

[The Cannarchist]

I thought #1 was better.....Where's Igor to warm up the generators?

[justcurios]

had an interesting discovery, i had been germinating some beens and some had not popped in a few days. well i started some more and i put the container they were in on top of a bid 10 inch speaker. only then to realize , hmmm , water + magnets. anyway within hours the older beens sprouted, and within 24 hours all beens had popped.

[c-ray]

from http://www.wholly-water.com/magnetizer/plant.htm

Magnetic Treatment of Seeds

The potential energy of self-preservation in seeds differs at different stages of development. During the harvest collection, seeds also contain different energy levels, and not all planted seeds will grow. That is the reason for an increase of the sowing norm, which is taken to the maximum amount of grown seeds for a hectare. Therefore, it results in the excess of costly seed material being used.

Our magnetic treatment of seeds before sowing allows spending 30-50% less on the seed as germination rates are increased substantially. Also, this treatment provides an earlier ripening of the harvest.

Seeds, which are treated using magnetic system, grow faster. The property of magneticism speeds can up protein formation, providing for the growth of roots and activating growth processes in weak seeds.

Application magnetism has shown a considerable decrease in the ripening time and an increase in the quality of vegetables, fruits and cereals, allowed for an increase of harvest by 12-36%, and in some cases up to 100% and more.
Magnetic Treatment of Seeds

Seeds are a resting system of organs of a future plant. What the plant will be and what results we will get depend upon the quality of this system. Magnetic treatment of seeds is necessary while using the non-standard seeds, for the improvement of seeds' quality, their germination properties, and for the stimulation of seeds' growth during vegetation period. The seeds should be treated directly before sowing.


Preparation of Seeds for Magnetizing

Seeds prepared for the treatment before sowing must be from one group with controlled seeds, identical by lineage, reproduction, and conditions of storing. Seeds from different layers should be thoroughly mixed and humidity should not be more than 14%. Multiplicity of the treatment is not important.

The physiological method of definition of magnetized seeds' productivity is in measuring the length of the embryonic root. It was experimentally proved that plants with good speed of growth of the embryonic root during transition from heterotrophic to autotrophic type of nourishment are more productive and create a more developed root system.

Magnetic treatment of seeds can be applied at both methods of sowing:

* Sowing with soaked seed;
* Sowing with unsoaked seeds.

Sowing With Soaked Seeds

Take Magnetizer ® FLAVORING & funnel and a container to soak seeds in. Pour required amount of water through Magnetizer ® FLAVORING & funnel into the container and pass the seeds through the Magnetizer ® FLAVORING & funnel into the container with magnetic water. Leave the seeds in magnetic water for 30 minutes and, then, pour the water out of the container and pass the seeds through the Magnetizer FLAVORING & funnel again. The seeds are now ready for sowing.


Sowing With Unsoaked Seeds

This method of magnetic treatment of seeds is used for sowing on large industrial areas (grain, wheat, rye, maize, barley, millet, buckwheat, etc.) when seeds' soaking is difficult due to large quantities. In this case, it is enough to pass seeds through a Magnetizer ® FlavOring & funnel as shown in the picture. However, larger versions are implementable. With larger Industrial sizes shown below.

The results of both methods will be much better if after magnetic treatment of seeds, magnetic water is used for irrigation.



Magnetized irrigation water

Magnetizing causes physical - chemical changes of natural water parameters, resulting in improvement of filtration properties and in an increase of dissolving properties of water. These changes result in an increased ability of soil to get rid of salts and results in a better assimilation of nutrients and fertilizer in plants during the growing cycle.

Plants and trees need mineral salts and trace minerals from the soil for growth and food production. Minerals and nutrients need to be in a proper balance and pH to be utilized even though present in the soil. Watering plants with magnetized water dissolves more nutrients because it lowers the surfice tension of water. This lets more minerals be suspended in concentration. This buffers the pH and causes more to pass through the cell walls of roots. Magnetized water being wetter, penetrates the soil faster and deeper, allowing for a deeper and larger root zone. Magnetized water dissolves more nutrients into the root zone to become available to stimulate plant growth. These are reasons why growth rates are increased, crop yields are larger in a shorter amount of time, and even with much less water and fertilizers and pesticides, in most cases.

This is the reason why magnetic water should be used for irrigation.

This results in an increased crop production and in an increased quality of agricultural products at a savings in labor and money.


In short, the economic advantage of using magnetic water for irrigating the crops looks like this:

Advantages

* Growing cycle decreases by 15-20 days, the harvest being 15-20 days earlier.
* Crop production increases from 15-20% to 100%, and in some cases, even more.
* Plant disease rates drastically decrease.
* Taste of agricultural products improves.
* Approximately 30% less water is used for irrigation. Therefore, 30% less energy is used in water pipes.
* Sea water (salty water) can be used for watering (from 6-8 thousand PPM inclusive) and for some cultures, very salty water can be used (from 15 thousand inclusive).
* By magnetizing seeds before sowing and by irrigating them with magnetic water, the need for crop material decreases by min. 30%.
* Average of 30% decrease in fertilizer consumption.
* Active soil desalination takes place, increasing crop production year after year.

Note the following improvments:

In plants:

* Speed of crops' standing
* Percentage of crops standing
* Development of root system
* Difference in green mass
* Development of first flowers
* Development of first fruits
* Quantity of fruits
* Time of collecting the harvest
* Difference in quantity and quality of harvest

In soil :

* Amount of salts at different depth of the soil (0-1.5m) before the irrigation process
* Amount of salt in soil while watering with normal and magnetic waters
* Density of water that has flown through the soil
* Speed of filtration in the beginning and at the end
* Washing away of salts while irrigating soil with water
* Washing out of various anions from the soil

[capt carnuba]

Magnetism and pyramidal geometry exemplify the same rearrangemnt phenomenon. I read exerpts of Cleve Baxters experiments along with watching videos of increased heliotropic whirling within a pyramidal construct. Copper wire slung between a magnesium and aluminum post should confer electromagetism to ones garden.

[caddis]

What are some other uses for magnatite?

It sounds too good to be true. Cray I'm guessing you are doing a little experiment :wall: are you using a control?

If I find some magnatite I'll test the gray hair theory. :muahaha:

[caddis]

hmm check this....http://www.chem1.com/CQ/magwatscams.html

[The Cannarchist]

bad connection there Caddis.....

[caddis]

More...http://www.chem1.com/CQ/magscams.html#AG

Somewhere in that pile the guy says the Israeilis used it in ag and showed yield increases. Those are the papers I'm looking for.

[caddis]

Cray I'm guessing you are doing a little experiment are you using a control?

[c-ray]

not really

here's a patent

United States Patent 4,020,590
Davis May 3, 1977
Apparatus and method for exposing seeds to a magnetic field


Abstract

Apparatus for magnetically treating seeds comprises a magnet for producing a unipolar magnetic field, an enclosed generally cylindrical housing having a closable access opening therein in which said seeds are placed for treatment, drive means associated with the housing for rotating said housing and imparting rolling and tumbling motion to the seeds within the housing, the housing being disposed with respect to the magnet such that the seeds move through the magnetic field as they roll and tumble. By magnetically treating the seeds in a unipolar magnetic field while rolling and tumbling the seeds, the characteristics of plants grown therefrom are favorably altered.

Inventors: Davis; Albert Roy (Green Cove Springs, FL)
Assignee: BioMagnetics International Inc. (Jacksonville, FL)
Appl. No.: 05/640,931
Filed: December 15, 1975

Current U.S. Class: 47/1.3 ; 47/58.1R
Current International Class: A01C 1/00 (20060101); A01C 001/00 (); A01G 007/04 ()
Field of Search: 47/1.3,57.6,58,1.2
References Cited [Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents

51745 December 1865 Page
1633301 June 1927 Williams
2731770 January 1956 Rhea
2954643 October 1960 Porter et al.
3460492 August 1969 Dickinson et al.
3675367 July 1972 Amburn
3911619 October 1975 Dedolph

Foreign Patent Documents

270,367 May., 1970 SU
1,065,864 Apr., 1967 UK

Other References

Maronek, D. M., Hortscience 6-1975, vol. 10, pp. 227-228, "Electromagnetic Seed Treatment Increases Germination of Koelreuteria Paniculata Laxm"..

Primary Examiner: Burr; Edgar S.
Assistant Examiner: Feyrer; James R.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Friedman; Stuart J.
Claims


What is claimed as new is as follows:

1. Apparatus for magnetically treating seeds comprising:

(a) a magnet for producing a unipolar magnetic field;

(b) a housing spaced from said magnet and within said field, said housing including a closable access opening therein for receiving said seeds and for retaining them within said unipolar magnetic field;

(c) drive means operatively associated with said housing for imparting only rotary motion to said housing for causing said seeds to roll and tumble within said housing, said rolling and tumbling comprising the only movement of said seeds relative to said unipolar magnetic field.

2. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein said unipolar magnetic field is a north pole field.

3. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein said unipolar magnetic field is a south pole field.

4. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, further including means for controlling the exposure time of said seeds to said magnetic field.

5. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein said housing is enclosed, includes closable openings in said housing for flowing fluid media into and out of said housing.

6. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 5, wherein said means for controlling exposure time is a timer adapted to be set for predetermined periods of time, said timer is operatively associated with said drive means to terminate housing motion when said predetermined time has expired, said timer having a plurality of timer settings and including indicia associated with at least some of said settings to associate said settings with seed varieties treated in said housing.

7. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 6, wherein said magnet is an electromagnet and said timer is operatively associated therewith to terminate the flow of current to said magnet when said predetermined time has expired.

8. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 1, wherein said housing is an elongated enclosed cylinder having a longitudinally extending axis and said drive means rotates said cylinder about its longitudinal axis.

9. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 8, wherein said magnet is generally elongated and disposed outside said housing and generally parallel to said axis.

10. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 8, wherein said magnet is substantially flat having a length at least as long as said cylinder, one side of said magnet constituting the north pole thereof and the other side of said magnet constituting the south pole thereof.

11. Apparatus, as claimed in claim 10, wherein said magnet is disposed adjacent said cylindrical surface with one flat side thereof facing said cylindrical surface and the other flat side thereof facing away from said cylindrical surface, whereby the magnetic energy field of the magnetic pole constituting said side facing said cylindrical surface is directed toward said housing.

12. A method of magnetically treating seeds to alter the characteristics of plants grown therefrom comprising:

(a) causing relative motion between said seeds and a unipolar magnetic field, said motion consisting only of rolling and tumbling said seeds for a pre-determined period of time of from 5 seconds to 14 hours in said unipolar magnetic field to expose all portions of said seeds to said field, said field having a strength of from 600 to 3500 gauss at said seeds; and

(b) restraining said seeds against movement out of said field.

13. A method, as claimed in claim 12, wherein said unipolar magnetic field is a north pole field.

14. A method, as claimed in claim 12, wherein said unipolar magnetic field is a south pole field.

15. A method, as claimed in claim 12, wherein said magnetic field strength is 600 - 800 gauss.

16. A method, as claimed in claim 12, wherein said exposure time is from 5 seconds to 1 hour.

17. A method, as claimed in claim 12, wherein said seeds are in contact with a liquid while tumbling in said magnetic field.

18. A method, as claimed in claim 17, wherein said liquid is water.
Description


BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to magneto magnetic energy and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for the application of such energy to seeds.

2. Description of the Prior Art

It is now generally accepted that when any biological living system lives in a strong magnetic environment, its physical and genetic development is to some extent altered. For example, it has long been known that the rate of seed germination and the rate of plant growth from seeds is affected by magnetism. This phenomenon is discussed in U. J. Pittman, "Biomagnetism--a Mysterious Plant Growth Factor", Canada Agriculture, Summer--1968 edition. In a more recent report, Moustafa, "Effect of Seed Exposure to Magnetic Field on Plant Physical Properties and Yield", ASAE Paper No. 73-316 (June, 1973), concluded that exposing seeds to an electromagnetic field prior to planting appeared to increase the rate of germination and the total plant leaf area, at least under growth chamber conditions.

In an effort to reduce the necessary exposure time for seeds to become adequately treated by magnetism so that the magnetically treated seeds can be commercially used, Amburn disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,675,367 an apparatus for moving seeds through a magnetic field. The Amburn apparatus consists essentially of an elongated tube having an electromagnet mounted thereon intermediate its ends to establish a magnetic flux field within the tube. A conveyor assembly, comprising an auger, conveys the seeds through the tube in such a manner that the seeds roll and tumble while within the magnetic field to expose the seeds in a multiplicity of positions with respect to the magnetic field. Amburn reports that treating seeds in this fashion increased crop yield from the treated seeds as compared with crop yield from the untreated seeds.

The magnetic field to which Amburn exposed his seeds was bipolar in that it had both a north and a south pole applying their respective energies to the seeds. Amburn points out that there were some indications that greater success was achieved in treating the seeds when the north pole was located at the inlet end of the apparatus. However, there was no suggestion or appreciation that one of the poles could or would produce different results from the other of the poles. This is, of course, because Amburn subscribed to the commmon belief extant over the years relating to magnets, which has been that the two magnetic poles, north and south, are homogeneous and that they emanate the same potential type of energy. This belief has now been found to be a misconception--the two poles of a magnet are in fact totally different in electric potential and effect--and the application of the respective poles to living systems has been found to produce quite different results.

The north pole (which is defined as the south-seeking pole) is now believed to provide a negative form of energy while the south pole (which is defined as the north-seeking pole) is believed to provide a positive form of energy. To support this discovery, it has been found that upon examination of the electron paths associated with the fields surrounding the respective poles that the south pole end of a magnet provides a right hand spin of electrons, i.e., a clockwise rotation of electron movement, as contrasted with the north pole electron spin, which presents a left hand spin or counter-clockwise rotation of its electron field. It has further been observed that the lines of magnetic energy leave the south pole to re-enter the magnet at the Bloch Wall where a 180.degree. phase change takes place, then leave the Bloch Wall at that point to then go on as the north pole energy to re-enter the magnet at its north pole. For a more detailed discussion of this phenomena, see Davis et al, Magnetism and its Effects on the Living System and The Magnetic Effect (Exposition Press, Hicksville, N.Y.).

The differing effects of the north and south poles, respectively, on seed germination rate and plant growth height was appreciated in a somewhat different context by Tsukamoto in British Patent Specification No. 1,065,864 wherein a disintegrable permanent magnet for use in the soil is disclosed. Of course, the Tsukamoto teaching does not extend to an apparatus for pretreating the seeds prior to planting or to a method for rotating and tumbling the seeds prior to planting in a unipolar magnetic field.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for unipolar treatment of seeds and/or seedlings in a magnetic field prior to planting.

It is another object of the invention to provide a method and apparatus for closely controlling the exposure time of seeds in a unipolar magnetic field.

It is still another object of the invention to provide an apparatus which can accommodate, without damage, all sizes and shapes of seeds and seedlings while rolling and tumbling them in a unipolar magnetic field.

It is yet another object of this invention to provide an apparatus for simultaneously exposing seeds or seedlings in contact with a liquid or gaseous medium to a unipolar magnetic field.

Other objects and advantages will become apparent from the following description and appended claims.

Briefly stated, in accordance with the aforesaid objects, the present invention provides a housing adapted for receiving and containing seeds or seedlings which housing includes drive means for causing movement of the housing, e.g., rotating the housing about an axis, to cause the seeds and seedlings to roll and tumble therein. One pole of a magnet produces a magnetic field through which said housing rotates such that the seeds and seedlings therein are more or less continuously exposed to the unipolar magnetic field. Timer means may be operatively associated with the drive means in order to closely control the exposure time of the seeds and seedlings to the field, which exposure time has been found to be critical for achieving optimum improved results. The housing has communicating therewith inlet and outlet ports for receiving and discharging gaseous or liquid materials therethrough and which provides the capability of magnetically treating the seeds together with said fluid materials for reasons which will become more fully apparent hereinafter.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be better understood in all its embodiments from a consideration of the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is an elevational view of an exemplary cylindrical seed containing housing, drive means therefor and unipolar magnetic field producing means of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an elevational view of another embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention schematically showing liquid and gas ports communicating with the interior of the housing and timer means operatively associated with the drive means.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is primarily concerned with the use of magneto magnetic energy, i.e., magnetic energy derived from a magnet as opposed to some other source, on seeds and seedlings. By use of the term "seeds" herein, it is intended to encompass any plant material from which further plants may by grown, e.g., seeds, seedlings, bulbs, cuttings, stalks, and the like. One particularly advantageous "seed" are sugar cane stalks (e.g., 5-7 feet long) which, after treatment in accordance with the present invention, may be planted horizontally. It has been found that after planting, shoots appear to grow from the stalk joints. Any type of magnet is suitable for use herein in which the poles are sufficiently separated that the energy of each pole can be isolated from the energy of the other pole. In this way a unipolar magnetic field can be applied to the seeds. Thus, separation of the poles is the prime requisite in selecting an appropriate magnet. Straight bar or cylindrical magnets provide maximum pole separation and are desirable. Either solid state or long-wound electromagnets, however, are equally useful.

A typical apparatus for exposing seeds to a unipolar magnetic field is shown in FIG. 1 generally at 10. The apparatus consists of a magnet 12, a housing 14 which moves through the magnetic field created by magnet 12, and drive means 16 for causing the desired movement of housing 14. In one preferred form of the invention, housing 14 comprises a cylindrical enclosure having opposite generally parallel end walls 18, 20 joined by cylindrical surface 22. However, it will be appreciated that housing 14 need not be cylindrical but can assume any configuration consistent with the herein described objectives of the invention. Moreover, the housing may be of any suitable dimensions to accommodate the seed to be treated. An access opening 24 is formed in the cylindrical surface 22 to permit access to the inside of housing 14. Seeds to be exposed to the magnetic field may be placed into and removed from the housing through opening 24. Removably closing access opening 24 is cover 26 which includes a handle 28 thereon for ease of removing from and replacing over opening 24. The cover may be held in place over access opening 24 by any conventional means.

End walls 18 and 20 include a centrally disposed aperture 29, 30 therein for receiving shaft 32 therethrough. The shaft passes longitudinally through cylindrical housing 14 and is fixedly mounted to the end walls such that rotation of the shaft rotates housing 14 (the axis of which is preferably coaxial with the shaft). One end 34 of shaft 32 includes a pulley wheel 36 on which drive belt 38 is mounted. Belt 38 is driven in the conventional manner through motor assembly 40 which includes motor 42, motor shaft 44 and motor pulley wheel 46. Shaft 32, pulley wheel 36 and motor assembly 40 comprise drive means 16. It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the drive means illustrated and may include any suitable drive means for imparting motion to housing 14 such that the seeds therein roll and tumble in the magnetic field, preferably for rotating housing 14 about its axis.

Drive means 16 rotates housing 14 about shaft 32 in either direction to expose the seeds within housing 14 to the unipolar magnetic field created by magnet 12, which magnet preferably extends axially along one side of housing 14. Magnet 12 may be mounted in any manner that will permit the energies of a single pole thereof to be applied to the seed contents of housing 14. As shown, the magnetic field of magnet 12 penetrates the cylindrical surface 22 of housing 14. Alternatively, magnet 12 can be disposed adjacent either or both end walls 18, 20 directing its energy through the end walls of the housing. In still other configurations magnet 12 may be attached to the inner or outer surfaces of housing 14, the only limitation being that the magnet must be so oriented that the contents of housing 14 are exposed to the energies of only one of the magnetic poles. For convenience, in a preferred form of the invention magnet 12 is a substantially flat magnetic material, generally rectangular in configuration, wherein one side 12a thereof constitutes the south pole of the magnet and the opposite side 12b thereof constitutes the north pole of the magnet. An elongated magnet support enclosure 48 having one open end is disposed adjacent one elongated side of the cylindrical surface 22. The flat magnet 12 is slidably received within enclosure 48 with one of its polar sides 12a or 12b directed toward housing 14 to expose the contents of the housing to the energies of that pole. For convenience, magnet 12 may include a knob or handle 13 projecting from one end thereof to provide a gripping portion for sliding the magnet into and out of enclosure 48. If it is desired to change the magnetic pole to which the housing contents are exposed, it is a simple matter to grasp knob 13, slide magnet 12 out of the open end of enclosure 48, flip the magnet over to direct the other pole toward the housing and then reinsert the magnet into the enclosure 48 through the open end thereof. Of course, if magnet 12 is an electromagnet, then the polarity of the magnet can be changed electrically, e.g., by reversing the current flow.

To utilize apparatus 10 for exposing seeds to one of the poles of magnet 12, cover 26 is removed from opening 24, the seeds to be treated are placed within the enclosure, and cover 26 is replaced over the opening. The desired magnetic pole is selected and magnet 12 is oriented so that the proper pole faces the seed housing, after which magnet 12 is placed into the magnet enclosure 48. Motor 42 is actuated and, via motor shaft 42, pulley wheels 46 and 36 and drive belt 38, shaft 32 is rotated, thus rotating the housing 14 thereabout. As the housing rotates, the seeds therein are moved through the magnetic field directed toward housing 14 by magnet 12. The seeds tumble and rotate end over end and side over side through and in the magnetic field such that all portions of the seeds are exposed to the field. The motion of one seed against another or against the inner surfaces of the enclosure, which may optionally be lined with a soft, rubberized material to prevent physical damage to the seeds, has a frictional effect which causes the generation of heat with the result that both the seeds and the air in the housing tend to become warm. This warmth is believed to expand the seeds to a certain extent and to make them more receptive to the influence of the applied magnetic field. Rotation of housing 14 is continued for the desired exposure time interval after which the motor is shut off and rotation ceases. If the magnet used is an electromagnet, through appropriate electrical connection of the current flow control to the magnet and to the motor, a single switch could simultaneously shut both off.

It is important that the parts of the rotating housing, the shafts, pulleys, drive means, magnet enclosure, etc. have very low magnetic retentivity in order that the seeds can remain in the housing without further exposure to a magnetic field after the desired exposure time has expired. Thus, construction materials such as plastic, aluminum, brass or like materials which will not retain magnetism are preferred for use. If a magnet other than an electromagnet is used, it is desirable to either remove it from enclosure 48 upon cessation of rotation or otherwise prevent its magnetic energies from further influencing the seeds. This latter objective can be achieved by interposing a magnetic field impermeable shield (not shown) between magnet 12 and housing 14 to prevent the magnetic field from reaching the seeds. Alternatively, of course, the seeds can be promptly removed from the housing.

Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 2 wherein rotation of housing 14 is achieved by a second form of drive means. Housing 14 is supported on two longitudinally extending shafts 50 and 52 with the outer cylindrical surface 22 of the housing frictionally engaging the shafts. Shaft 50 is journaled for free rotation in support means 54 at opposite ends thereof. Shaft 52 is also journaled for rotation in support means 54. However, shaft 52 is driven by motor assembly 40, which may include motor 42 directly coupled to shaft 52 as shown in FIG. 2. Alternatively, the motor assembly may also include motor pulley wheel 46 acting through a drive belt 38 and a shaft pulley wheel 36 mounted on shaft 52 (as shown in FIG. 1). The rotation of shaft 52 caused by motor assembly 40 is transmitted to and causes frictionally engaged cylindrical housing 14 to also rotate. The rotation of housing 14, which is supported on and frictionally engages shaft 50, causes shaft 50 to rotate also. In this manner, the seeds may be rotated and tumbled and exposed to the unipolar magnetic field created by magnet 12 in much the same manner as with the apparatus of FIG. 1.

During exposure to the unipolar magnetic field the seeds may be treated with or exposed to gaseous or liquid media, such as air, water, liquid fertilizers, and the like. In order that gaseous media can reach the seeds, valve controlled inlet gas port 56 and outlet gas port 58 communicate with the interior of the housing through end walls 18 and 20, respectively. These gas ports are particularly useful for venting the warm air and/or introducing cool air into the housing. Likewise, valve controlled liquid inlet line 60 and discharge liquid line 62 communicate with the interior of the housing through end walls 18 and 20, respectively. Through lines 60 and 62, liquids such as water, liquid fertilizer, and the like can be intimately admixed with the seeds and simultaneously exposed to the unipolar magnetic field. It is believed that exposure of water and other liquids to the same unipolar magnetic field as influences the seeds alters the water sufficiently to beneficially improve its characteristics as a germination initiator.

While the length of exposure time and the strength of the magnetic field to which the seeds or other housing contents are exposed will vary among seed varieties and types and are dependent to a large extent upon the desired characteristics sought in the plants resulting from the exposed seeds, the magnetic field strength is desirably maintained at the seeds in the range 600 to 3500 gauss. Most desirably, magnetic field strength at the seeds should be in the range 600 to 800 gauss. Optimum seed exposure time also varies considerably with seed varieties and types and with other exposure conditions. Nevertheless, it can fairly be stated that seed exposure times should be controlled generally to from 5 seconds to 14 hours, and more usually from 5 seconds to 60 minutes. The extended exposure periods approaching 14 hours are useful only for a few seed types, e.g., tobacco. Too little exposure, of course, will not develop the desired characteristics in the seed. On the other hand, too great an exposure time can adversely affect the characteristics of the exposed seeds. Indeed, it has been found that there is an optimum exposure time for each variety of seed and the usefulness of the apparatus can be enhanced by operating motor 42 via a timer 64 which includes an indicator lamp 68 which lights when the apparatus is operating. The face of timer 64 may include a pointer dial 70 and a plurality of indicia 72 arranged thereabout whereby each indicia represents by number keyed to a chart or by seed name, the appropriate timer setting for each seed type. Where numbers are used as indicia, a typical chart would associate each number with one or more seed types. Thus, for illustrative purposes only, to process corn, dial 70 could be moved to position -10-; cotton and/or watermelon seeds might best be treated at position -8-; and the like. Preferably, the dial 70 is spring-biased to the off position and is clockwise rotatable to point to one of the indicia 72 which indicate a predetermined time exposure for the seeds to be treated. When the dial 70 is other than in the "OFF" position, the electrical circuitry is closed and current flows to the motor which drives housing 14. The timer dial 70 rotates counter-clockwise until it reaches the "OFF" position at which point the electrical circuitry to the motor 42 (and to the magnet 12, if it is an electromagnet) is automatically opened. If desired, in addition to lamp 68, other signals may be used to indicate the end of seed exposure time, such as bells, buzzers, and the like.

As a general matter, as will be more clearly indicated in the following examples, south pole exposure of seeds produces plants having lower acidity, thicker but shallower root structures, larger leaves, greater sugar content, faster germination rate and increased protein content compared to north pole exposed seeds. North pole exposure of seeds produces plants having greater yield, taller plants and longer and deeper roots than south pole exposed plants. As a result, south pole exposed seeds produce plants having generally better individual characteristics in terms of nutritional values and north pole exposed seeds produce plants having larger size and greater yields. However, the foregoing conclusions are merely generalizations, and the particular pole to which a particular seed should be exposed varies on a seed type by seed type basis. Aside from these general trends, there is little consistency in results attained between different seed types under similar exposure conditions although for each seed type the results appear to be consistently reproducible. Thus it cannot be stated categorically that north pole exposure is better or worse than south pole exposure--it depends upon the seed type and the desired results. For example, although south pole exposure may produce a plant having higher protein and sugars content than north pole exposure under ideal growth conditions, since the south pole root structure is shallow, such a plant would do poorly in arid areas. Therefore, it might be desirable to use north pole exposure to obtain deeper root penetration notwithstanding that the protein and sugars content in the resulting plant might not be as good under ideal conditions. Under the arid conditions, north pole protein and sugars content may turn out to be better because the plant will be healthier.

The following examples illustrate how seed exposure in the apparatus of the present invention to north and south pole magnetic fields influences the chemical and physical characteristics of the plants grown therefrom.


EXAMPLE I

Commercial dry corn and food table corn seeds were divided into three groups. The first group was exposed by rotating and tumbling in a magnetic field created by a magnetic north pole for a fixed time period. The second group was similarly exposed for the same time period to the magnetic field created by a magnetic south pole. The third group was rotated and tumbled in the apparatus, but without any magnetic field, for the same time period. The magnetic field strengths for both north and south poles were 600 gauss at the seeds. The treatment time for all groups was 15 minutes. A large number of separate plantings were made for seeds from each group under identical soil and ambient conditions. The seeds developed into plants and the plants were all harvested at the same time. The following Table I tabulates the averaged results for all plantings for each group for the indicated plant characteristic measured by conventional techniques.

TABLE I ______________________________________
Corn Plant Untreated South Pole North Pole Characteristic Control Exposed Exposed ______________________________________
Germination time 7 days 4-5 days 6 days Yield (% of control) 100% 114% 124-131% Cob Dextrose 2% 5% 3% Glucose 2% 4% 3% Natural sugars 1% 3% 2% Protein 5% 7% 3% pH 7 6.9 6.5 Kernels Dextrose 2% 5% 3% Glucose 1% 5% 2% Natural sugars 3% 10% 5% Protein 3% 10% 5% pH 6.3 6.5 6.2 ______________________________________

The foregoing data are noteworthy for a number of reasons. First, it appears that both north and south pole exposed seeds produced plants having improved quantities of sugars and proteins, although south pole exposed seeds produced plants which were superior in these characteristics. Second, south pole exposed seeds appeared to germinate more rapidly than north pole exposed seeds which, in turn, germinated more rapidly than the controls. Third, north pole exposed seeds produced the greatest yields, followed by south pole exposed seeds and then by the controls. In each case, yield was calculated in ears/acre. Finally, both north and south pole magnetic field exposure seemed to increase acidity in the cob compared to the control. However, in the kernels, south pole exposure decreased acidity although north pole exposure increased acidity.


EXAMPLE II

As in Example I, corn seeds in three groups were exposed to 600 gauss north and south pole fields and to no magnetic field whatever while being rotated and tumbled in the apparatus of the present invention for 15 minutes. The purpose of this example was to demonstrate the effects of exposure on various corn seed varieties.

Nine separate corn seed varieties were exposed to a south pole field and to no field at all and then a number of separate plantings of each seed variety were made. Measurements of stalk lengths in inches were made 30 days after planting. The results for each variety are set forth in Table II.

TABLE II ______________________________________
Stalk Length Variety Control South Pole Exposed ______________________________________
1. Standard Yellow Table 9.5 11.4 2. Standard White Field 8.75 10.6 3. Bantam Standard 7.77 9.9 4. Bantam White Standard 8.2 10.8 5. Bantam Hybrid Yellow 6.4 9.9 6. Bantam Hybrid White 9.9 11.9 7. Bantam Late Season 10.5 14.6 8. Standard Early Yellow 9.6 12.7 9. Standard Early Field 11.7 15.6 ______________________________________

It is apparent that south pole exposure resulted in increased stalk length 30 days after planting. North pole exposure resulted in still greater growth increases relative to the controls, averaging about 35% increased growth as compared with the Table II data which averaged about 31% increased growth.

The stalks were analyzed for protein content. It was found that the protein averaged 14.7% in the controls while south pole exposed seeds yielded plants averaging 22.7% as shown in Table III where the corn varieties are identified by their corresponding numbers from Table II.

TABLE III ______________________________________
Protein Content Varieties Controls South Pole Exposed ______________________________________
1 17.6% 31.1% 2 14.5% 29.1% 3 16.4% 26.9% 4 12.5% 19.9% 5 18.3% 21.6% 6 12.4% 18.7% 7 14.3% 18.5% 8 11.5% 17.7% 9 14.6% 21.1% ______________________________________

Protein measurements on the whole cob with the kernels intact showed that protein in the controls averaged 27% whereas south pole exposed seeds yielded plants averaging 36.4% protein.

Stalk diameter measurements were also made at harvesting on each of the varieties. The results appear in Table IV.

TABLE IV ______________________________________
Stalk Diameter Varieties Controls South Pole Exposed ______________________________________
1, 2, 7 1/4 inch 1/2 inch 3, 4, 5, 6 3/8 inch 3/4 inch 8, 9 1/2 inch 7/8 inch ______________________________________

Similar studies made on plants grown from magnetic field exposed soy beans, beans, sugar beets, peas, melons, cucumbers, oats, wheat, rye, barley and twelve other vegetable and grain plants yielded results indicating about 12 to 30% increases in plant growth and characteristics in the plants grown from north or south pole exposed seeds compared with the controls.


EXAMPLE III

Seeds from radish plants were exposed in the apparatus of the present invention to north and south pole magnetic fields of about 1200 gauss for varying time intervals. The seeds were planted in substantially identical adjacent plots and subjected to substantially identical environmental conditions. After 30 days the length of the plant leaves were measured to determine the optimum exposure time for radishes.

TABLE V ______________________________________
Leaf Length North Pole South Pole Exposure Time Length (inches) Length (inches) ______________________________________
0 (control) 21/4 21/4 5 minutes 31/4 21/4 10 minutes 21/2 21/4 15 minutes 21/2 23/4 25 minutes 21/2 3 45 minutes 21/2 31/4 60 minutes 3 23/4 ______________________________________

It is interesting that the optimum exposure time period for north pole exposure of radish seeds as determined from 30 day leaf length is 5 minutes or 60 minutes. For south pole exposed seeds, the optimum exposure time appears to be 45 minutes or 25 minutes.


EXAMPLE IV

The procedure of Example III was practiced on a variety of corn seeds using only the north pole field at 1200 gauss. The stalk height was measured after 30 days. The results are set forth below:

TABLE VI ______________________________________ Stalk Height North Pole Exposure Time Stalk Height (in.) ______________________________________ 0 (control) 13 5 18 10 15 15 171/2 25 151/2 45 13 60 121/2 ______________________________________

The optimum exposure time for this variety corn seed based upon maximizing stalk height appears to be either 5 minutes or 15 minutes.


EXAMPLE V

The procedure of Example III was practiced on another variety of corn seeds using only the south pole field at 600 gauss. The stalk height measurements after 21 days appear below:

TABLE VII ______________________________________
Stalk Height South Pole Exposure Time Stalk Height (in.) ______________________________________
0 (control) 93/4 5 minutes 121/4 10 minutes 9 15 minutes 14 30 minutes 123/4 45 minutes 111/4 60 minutes 11 ______________________________________

The optimum time for south pole exposure of this variety corn seed based upon maximizing stalk height appears to be 15 minutes.


EXAMPLE VI

The procedure of Example III was practiced on English pea seeds by exposing the seeds to 1200 gauss of a north pole field. Thirty days after planting, plant height was measured and appears below:

TABLE VIII ______________________________________
Plant Height North Pole Exposure Time Plant Height (in.) ______________________________________
0 (control) 31/2 5 minutes 31/4 10 minutes 51/2 15 minutes 21/4 25 minutes 4 45 minutes 51/2 60 minutes 31/4 ______________________________________

Optimum north pole exposure time for maximizing plant height of this seed variety appears to be 10 or 45 minutes.


EXAMPLE VII

The procedure of Example III was practiced on English pea seeds by exposing the seeds to 1200 gauss of a south pole field. Thirty days after planting, plant height was measured and appears below:

TABLE IX ______________________________________
Plant Height South Pole Exposure Time Plant Height (in.) ______________________________________
0 (control) 4 10 minutes 51/2 15 minutes 33/4 25 minutes 43/4 40 minutes 4 60 minutes 41/4 ______________________________________

The optimum time of south pole exposure for this variety pea seed based upon maximizing plant height appears to be 10 minutes.


EXAMPLE VIII

The procedure of Example III was practiced on a variety of string bean seeds using only the south pole field at 600 gauss. Plant height measurements were made 19 days after planting with the following results:

TABLE X ______________________________________
Plant Height South Pole Exposure Time Plant Height (in.) ______________________________________
0 (control) 5 5 minutes 41/4 10 minutes 41/2 15 minutes 7 30 minutes 6 45 minutes 31/2 60 minutes 6 ______________________________________

The optimum south pole exposure time to maximize plant height for these string bean seeds appears to be 15 minutes.


EXAMPLE IX

The procedure of Example VIII was practiced on cantaloupe, watermelon and tomato seeds using only the south pole energies at 600 gauss. Plant height measurements were made 19 days after planting. Tabulated below are the optimum south pole exposure times for each type seed to maximize plant height:

______________________________________
Watermelon 5 minutes Cantaloupe 10 minutes Tomato 10 minutes ______________________________________

The foregoing examples indicate that rotating and tumbling plant seeds in the apparatus of the present invention while exposing them to the magnetic field energies of only one magnetic pole improves many of the characteristics of the resulting plant. No supportable explanation for the differing effects of the respective poles and the varying exposure times appears available. However, it is believed that each pole affects each element and organic bond in the plant structure in a different manner and because, by their nature, each seed and plant variety have differing elemental compositions and structures, the magnetic pole exposure effect differs for each plant. However, the common thread in the experimental results appears to be that exposure to a unipolar magnetic field generally improves plant characteristics over similarly treated but unexposed controls and that the exercise of control over exposure time is critical. Moreover, it has been found that unipolar magnetic field exposure in a distinct improvement over bipolar magnetic field exposure.

While the present invention has been described with respect to particular embodiments thereof, it will be understood that numerous modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without actually departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, all modifications and equivalents may be resorted to which fall within the scope of the invention as claimed.

patent images here -> http://patimg2.uspto.gov/.piw?Docid=04020590&homeurl=http%3A%2F%2Fpatft.uspto.gov%2Fnetacgi%2Fn ph-Parser%3FSect1%3DPTO1%2526Sect2%3DHITOFF%2526d%3DP ALL%2526p%3D1%2526u%3D%25252Fnetahtml%25252FPTO%25 252Fsrchnum.htm%2526r%3D1%2526f%3DG%2526l%3D50%252 6s1%3D4,020,590.PN.%2526OS%3DPN%2F4,020,590%2526RS %3DPN%2F4,020,590&PageNum=&Rtype=&SectionNum=&idkey=NONE&Input=View+first+page
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http://www.google.com/patents?id=qpYiAAAAEBAJ&dq=5709223

United States Patent 5,709,223
Rawls, Jr. , et al. January 20, 1998
Magnetically modified microbial metabolism


Abstract

This invention pertains to a method of modifying the reproduction rate of cells by exposing the cells to north directional unipolar magnetic fields, thereby decreasing the reproduction rate of the cells. The reproduction rate of the cells can also be modified by exposing them to south directional unipolar magnetic fields, thereby increasing the reproduction rate of the cells.


Inventors: Rawls, Jr.; Walter C. (Jacksonville, FL), Provell; Gregory J. (Somerset, NJ)
Assignee: Bio Magnetics Systems, Inc. (Newark, NJ)
Appl. No.: 08/254,940
Filed: June 7, 1994

Related U.S. Patent Documents

Application Number Filing Date Patent Number Issue Date
821028 Jan., 1992 5318045
674923 Mar., 1991 5197492
380873 Jul., 1989 5002068

Current U.S. Class: 128/898
Current International Class: B09C 1/10 (20060101); C02F 3/34 (20060101); C12N 13/00 (20060101); G21K 5/00 (20060101); G21K 1/093 (20060101); G21K 1/00 (20060101); A61B 019/00 ()
Field of Search: 128/898 600/9-15
References Cited [Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents

3333776 August 1967 Elemi
3664327 May 1972 Gordon et al.
3921620 November 1975 Nakayama
4020590 May 1977 Davis
4134935 January 1979 Davis
4602359 July 1986 Gordon
4622952 November 1986 Gordon
4622953 November 1986 Gordon
4798194 January 1989 Amishime
5017185 May 1991 Baermann
5106361 April 1992 Liboff
5123898 June 1992 Liboff


Other References

Magnetism and its Effects on the Living System Davis et al, Acres USA, Kansas City, Missouri, (1974). .
The Magnetic Effect, Davis et al, Acres USA, Kansas City, Missouri, (1975). .
Borstein et al, Argosy, Jun. (1968). .
Evolving Perspective on the Exposure Risks from Magnetic Fields, A Trappier Journal of the National Medical Association, vol. 82, No. 9, pp. 621-624 Sep. 1990..

Primary Examiner: Brown; Michael A.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Parker; Sheldon H.
Parent Case Text


CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation in part of Ser. No. 07/821,028 filed Jan. 15, 1992, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,318,045, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 674,923, filed Mar. 26, 1991, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,197,492, which application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 380,873, filed Jul. 17, 1989, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,002,068, the subject matter of which is incorporated herein, in full, as though recited in detail.



Claims

What is claimed is:

1. The method of modifying the reproduction rate of cells by exposing said cells to north directional unipolar magnetic fields, thereby decreasing said reproduction rate.

2. The method of modifying the reproduction rate of cells by exposing said cells to south directional unipolar magnetic fields, thereby increasing said reproduction rate.
Description


FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to methods for the modification of microbial metabolism using unipolar magnetic fields. In one aspect, this invention is directed to the modification of microbial metabolism, such as enhancing the microbial activity in the biodegradation of contaminated aqueous waste streams. In a further aspect, the present invention relates to methods for utilizing a unipolar magnetic field under controlled conditions to modify the metabolism of microorganisms.


BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The search for a biological effect due to magnetic fields has a long history dating back a hundred years. The literature on biomagnetic effects on the growth and development of various organisms has been quite extensive showing both positive and negative findings. Among the positive findings attributed to strong magnetic fields are: altered growth rate, enzyme activities, cellular metabolism, DNA synthesis and animal orientation.

A wide variety of methods have been reported in the literature which are directed to the use of magnetic energy as a diagnostic technique and also for the treatment of diseases in warm blooded animals including humans. For example, magnetic energy has been utilized quite successfully over the past several years to promote the formation of osteoblasts in conjunction with the healing of bone fractures. In many instances markedly improved results in healing times have been achieved by the application of magnetic energy to the site of bone fractures and other injuries.

In U.S. Pat. No. 3,337,776, which issued Aug. 22, 1967, there is disclosed an apparatus for generating magnetic fields which are indicated to be particularly useful for biomedical applications. Although the patentee is not specific as to individual applications, he does state that magnetic fields generated by the apparatus can decrease metabolism and reacts on the spastic syndrome.

A magnetic probe is disclosed and claimed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,664,327 which issued May 23, 1972 and states that the probe can be employed in relatively inaccessible locations, such as in body cavities of animals to cause relaxation of muscle tissue.

A magnetic medical treatment device is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,921,620 which states that the effects of a magnetic field upon a living body is dissociated by polarization and induced currents and is effective in controlling the sympathetic nervous system.

On May 3, 1977, U.S. Pat. No. 4,020,590 issued to A. R. Davis discloses an apparatus and method for treating seeds in a unipolar magnetic field. It is indicated in the patent that this treatment enhances the germination rate of the seeds, as well as providing plants having greater sugar content, increased protein and other desirable features.

In U.S. Pat. No. 4,134,935 which issued Jan. 16, 1979 also to A. R. Davis, a method is disclosed and claimed which uses magnetic fields for clinical examination of animals to determine damaged, diseased, abnormal or malfunctioning parts of the body. Changes in tensioning and relaxation of the body extremities are an indication of body abnormalities.

A method for treating cancer is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,622,952 which issued Nov. 18, 1986 and which involves timing an electromagnetic energy to the resonant energy absorption frequencies of the intracellular structures of the selected cells. and then exposing a subject to this tuned electromagnetic energy field. The field can also be tuned to the frequency which has been calculated to be closest to the resonant frequency of the cancer cells and furthest from the normal cells.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,622,953, which issued to the same patentee, disclosed the identical procedure for the treatment of atherosclerotic lesions. In this process, metabolic and activity varying substance such as ferric hydroxide and dextran were employed and by applying the proper resonant energy, the heat in the diseased cell is increased by an increment sufficient to kill the diseased cell but not sufficient to kill normal cells.

In a patent issued to Robert T. Gordon on May 5, 1987, U.S. Pat. No. 4,602,359, a process is described and claimed for the treatment of cancer in a host organism which comprises providing to the host organism minute particles capable of being inductively heated and which are of a size which can be absorbed into cancer cells. Thereafter the organism is subjected to an alternating electromagnetic field to heat the particles at that point in metabolic time when the maximum difference in magnetic susceptibility between the cancer cells and normal cells within the region occurs, and then continuing the inductive heating to increase intracellular temperature to selectively kill the cancer cells.

Previous developments of directional magnetic fields began in 1936, when A. R. Davis first discovered that the north and the south magnetic pole fields each exhibited unique properties with respect to their effects on various forms of life. This discovery was slow to be accepted because of investigations by others who confused Davis' directional polarities magnetic fields with those which are simultaneously emitted by horse shoe type magnets and by AC-powered electromagnets. The common belief over the years relating to magnets has been that they emanate the same potential of type of energy. This belief has been found to be a misconception, since the two poles of a magnet are totally different in electric potential and effect. Correspondingly, the application of the respective poles to living systems has been found to produce quite different results. More specifically, it has been shown that magnetic energy has an effect on cells such as blood cells, nerves, bacteria, et al.

Preliminary investigations regarding biological effects of exposure to magnetic fields have indicated a polarity dependence. Cells are deemed to be bioelectric in nature, function and behavior and studies have indicated that directional magnetic fields enhance biological activity. Moreover, due to the orientation of such cells and of the metal elements and other ions contained therein, the blood cells have been found to decrease certain biological effects when exposed to the north pole and to increase other biological effects when exposed to the magnetic south pole. This same type of reaction has been noted in connection with other type cells of the body, it having been observed that, as a general matter, the application of north pole energies to an existing unhealthy or abnormal condition tends to have an arresting, quieting or relaxing effect, to induce an overall healing reaction akin to the body's own defense mechanism. On the other hand, the application of south pole energies tends to have a strengthening, activating effect, which has been found useful in treating some abnormal conditions, particularly those associated with a slowing or weakening in function. Cancer cells exposed to the north field show a significant decrease in the number of surviving cells after a period of incubation. Conversely, the same type of cells, when exposed to the south field, indicated an increase in the number of surviving cells compared to the unexposed controls. A more detailed description of magnetic pole energies can be found in Davis et al, Magnetism and its Effects on the Living System, Acres U.S.A., Kansas City, Mo. (1974) and Davis et al, The Magnetic Effect, Acres U.S.A., Kansas City, Mo. (1975).

The north pole, which is defined as the north seeking pole, is now believed to provide a negative form of energy while the south pole, which is defined as the south seeking pole, is believed to provide a positive form of energy. It has also been found upon examination of the electron paths associated with the fields surrounding the respective poles that the south pole end of a magnet provides a right hand spin of electrons, i.e., a clockwise rotation of electron movement, as contrasted with the north pole electron spin, which provides a left hand spin or counterclockwise rotation of its electron field.

It has been further observed that the lines of magnetic energy leave the south pole to re-enter the magnet at the Bloch Wall where the 180 degrees phase takes place, and leave the Bloch Wall at that point to go on as the north pole energy to re-enter the magnet at its north pole.

Magnetic enhancement or retardation of bacterial or cellular growth rates has been reported in the literature. For example, Davis and Rawls presented numerous examples of enhancement to seeds and various types of cellular growth (Davis, A. R. & Rawls, Jr., W. C., Magnetism and its Effects on the Living System, Acres, U.S.A., Kansas City, Mo., 1974). Bornstein reported magnetic inhibition of bacterial growth in burn wounds (Bornstein, L. A., in Argosy, June, 1968). Investigations sponsored by Bio-Magnetics Systems, Inc. have shown that unidirectional magnetic fields inhibited or increased the growth of cancer cells, depending on the field polarity, as disclosed by A. Trappier et al., in Evolving Perspectives On The Exposure Risks From Magnetic Fields, Journal of Nat. Med. Assoc., 82:621-624, September 1990.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In its broad aspect, this invention is directed to a method for the modification of microbial metabolism through the use of unipolar magnetic fields. In general, the method comprises exposing microbes to a unipolar magnetic field with gauss concentrations sufficient to effect microbial metabolism.

Bioremediation processes, in which microbes are used to repair ecological damage, are under development at the Environmental Protection Agency and elsewhere to treat a range of contaminants including aromatic solvents, polychlorobiphenyls, trichloroethylene, petroleum hydrocarbons and other organic constituents. The use of unipolar magnetic fields has the potential for enhancing the applicability and cost-effectiveness of bioremediation for the treatment of contaminated groundwater and contaminated soil. Specifically, it has now been found that the application of unipolar magnetic fields enhances microbial activity and will result in increasing the efficiency and rate of bioremediation, and proportionally decreasing the time required to meet cleanup goals. Thus, the unipolar magnetic field technology can save significant remediation costs at those toxic waste sites amenable to biological degradation. In addition, this technology can provide an integrated process for remediation. Such an integrated process can be based upon pump, treat, reinjection and/or direct application of magnetic field to the vadose zone to stimulate in situ biodegradation.

The method of modifying cells by exposing the cells to directional unipolar magnetic fields is also disclosed. The reproduction rate is increased when exposed to a south magnetic field, and decreased when exposed to a north magnetic field. The modification also applies to cells which derive energy for reproduction through fermentation. The modification can be either intracellular or modification is through the cell wall and the modification is retained within the cell.

Accordingly, one or more of the following objects will be achieved by the practice of this invention. It is an object of this invention to amplify or otherwise modify microbial metabolism and thereby enhance a process which employees microbes. These and other objects will readily become apparent to those skilled in the art in the light of the teachings therein set forth.


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The objects of the invention will become more apparent when the specification is read in conjunction with the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a schematic drawing of a toxic waste site showing an integrated approach for utilizing unipolar magnetic fields to modify the microbial activity in a bioremediation process.

FIG. 2 is a drawing of a recirculating flow type biomagnetic reactor.

FIG. 3 is a graph showing the effect of unipolar magnetic fields on the rate of oxygen consumption in a bioreactor system. FIG. 4 is a graph showing the effect of unipolar magnetic fields on the rate of phenol consumption in a bioreactor system.

FIG. 5 is a graph showing the effect of unipolar magnetic fields on protein concentration in a bioreactor system.

FIG. 6 is a graph showing the effect of reversing unipolar magnetic fields on the rate of oxygen consumption in a bioreactor system.

FIG. 7 is a graph which shows the effect on rate of biodegradation utilizing of different gauss strengths

FIG. 8 is a graph which shows the effect on protein concentration utilizing different gauss strengths.

FIG. 9 is a graph which shows the effect on rate of O.sub.2 consumption utilizing different gauss strengths.

FIG. 10 is a schematic illustration of a process for producing plastic in bacteria by fermenting a carbon source.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In its broad aspect, the present invention is directed to the modification of microbial metabolism by the application thereto of unipolar magnetic energy, i.e., the energy, north or south, emanating from a single pole of a magnet, under specific conditions to achieve the modification. The term modification is used herein to indicate an increase or decrease in the rate and/or efficiency of metabolism.

The biochemical processes of assimilation (anabolism) and dissimilation (catabolism) describe metabolism in microorganisms. Assimilation is the process by which organisms synthesize organic compounds from simple organic chemicals, CO.sub.2, water, and other components. Dissimilation is the process by which organisms decompose organic compounds to CO2 and water, or partially decompose organics to lower molecular weight organics.

This invention modifies microbial metabolism using directional unipolar magnetic fields. Laboratory experiments have shown that south pole magnetic fields increase the rate of dissimilation in simulated bioremediation processes whereas north pole magnetic fields inhibit the rate of dissimilation (comparing to a control consisting of no magnetic fields).

Magnetically enhanced bioremediation is one area of application of the invention. Bioremediation is a process by which the use of living organisms, in conjunction with or independent from other technologies, is employed to decontaminate a polluted system. In bioremediation, contaminants are destroyed by the action of microbes such as soil bacteria.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a toxic waste site showing an integrated approach for utilizing unipolar magnetic fields to modify the microbial activity in a bioremediation process. The unipolar magnetic field can be applied to the microbes before or after their contact with the toxic waste. Magnetically enhanced bioremediation is applicable to organic and inorganic wastes located in solid and aqueous media, including soil, slurries, sludges, and sediments. The process can use water as an intermediary to provide contact between magnetically enhanced bacteria and toxic waste substances. The presence of water in the soil as well as groundwater, itself, is compatible with magnetically enhanced bioremediation.

As shown in FIG. 1 a pretreatment reactor 10 can be provided with a magnet 12. A directional magnetic field is applied to the contaminated stream 14, in the reactor 10, by means of the magnet 12, which subjects the material in the pretreatment reactor to a south pole magnetic field. In the main reactor 18, microbes are added to the contaminated stream. A directional magnet 16 applies a south pole magnetic filed to the combined biomass in the main reactor 18. Optionally, nutrients are fed to the main reactor from a nutrient tank 11, or other source.

The oxidase and treated microbes are reinjected into the ground and is permitted to percolate into the ground. A magnetic blanket consisting of 9 inch wide, 1/4 inch thick strips of pliable magnetic material 20, are laid over at least a portion of the field, thus subjecting the field to a south pole magnetic field.

A major advantage of this invention is that it can be used with existing bioremediation processes without introducing a major process modification or perturbation. The use of this invention could, however, result in the use of smaller, less costly process hardware and shorter operation times.

This invention can also be used to enhance biochemical processes in which microorganisms assist in producing chemicals such as plastics. For example, bacteria will make polymers, such as polyester under the proper conditions, and the use of unipolar magnetic fields will modify the rate and/or efficiency of this process.

Magnetically modified microbial metabolism would provide a basis for application to other governmental and commercial uses of microorganisms. Such uses can include any process where microorganisms such as bacteria are actively involved in a biochemical reaction.

The following examples are illustrative of the present invention.


EXAMPLE 1

A recirculating flow type bioreactor was fabricated from nonmagnetic materials (plastics) and set-up as shown in FIG. 2. Solid state unipolar directional magnetic fields were applied to the reactor which contained 100 grams of alginate-immobilized, activated sludge prepared at the New Jersey Institute of Technology Biotechnology Laboratory, Newark, N.J. The bacterial culture in the sludge was immobilized in alginate matrix and activated by curing in 0.1 molar CaCl.sub.2 solution. The magnetic field strength applied was varied. Air was continuously supplied as the source of dissolved oxygen. The oxygen consumption was monitored using a Clark-type dissolved oxygen probe and a strip chart recorder. Phenol was added to a mineral salt medium as the sole carbon source. It was constantly monitored for biodegradation in the experiment by sampling the reservoir and analyzing the samples in a Varian 3300 gas chromatograph. The concentration of secreted aeration in the medium, which continuously circulated between the reservoir and the reactor, was measured daily using the standard Lowery color response test. Each experimental run was 1200 hours (50 days) in length.

Runs performed were:

1. Control: no magnet on the bioreactor.

2. South magnetic pole exposure to the bioreactor.

3. North magnetic pole exposure to the bioreactor.

4. Changing the north magnetic pole exposure to a south magnetic pole exposure and the south magnetic pole exposure to a north magnetic pole exposure in the bioreactor.

Table 1 presents the results of these experiments. When the south pole magnetic energy was applied, biological oxidation rate was increased by a factor of two compared to the control run without magnetic energy present (from 0.656 to 1.545).

TABLE 1 ______________________________________ Directional Directional Control South Pole North Pole ______________________________________ g Average rate of oxygen 0.656 1.545 0.365 consumption (nmol/min ml) Average secreted protein 179 2422 not concentration (ug/ml) detectable Average rate of phenol 3.09 4.23 0.5 biodegradation (ppm/hr) ______________________________________

FIG. 3 shows the effect of magnetic fields on the rate of oxygen consumption. It can be seen that the rate increased dramatically after 4 days of directional south pole magnetic field exposure as compared to north pole magnetic field exposure or control.

Results obtained from studies under the influence of north pole, south pole and during the control run are tabulated in Table 1. It can be seen that the highest average rate of phenol biodegradation and oxygen consumption is found during the run when south pole is attached to the bioreactor. When the magnetic south pole was applied, it increased the biological oxidation activity (oxygen consumption rate) by a factor of two as compared to the control run without magnetic field (from 0.7 to 1.5). FIG. 3 shows the effect of magnetic field on the rate of O.sub.2 consumption. It can be seen that the rate increases dramatically after 4 days under the influence of south pole as compared to the control and north. One of the measures of biodegradation is the increase in activity that is the rate of oxygen consumption by the microbes in presence of a substrate like phenol. An increase in oxygen consumption indicates that it is being utilized by the microorganisms to break down phenol into its metabolic products which ultimately are CO.sub.2 and water.

The phenol consumption rate is faster by nearly 30% in case of the run with the south pole as compared to the control run.

FIG. 4 indicates that the phenol concentration goes down rapidly under the influence of south pole comparison to the north pole and the control. These observations are consistent with those from the rate of oxygen consumption monitoring.

Significant amounts of protein build-up in the liquid phase verified that biological activity was enhanced when magnetic south pole was applied to the system as compared to the control as shown in FIG. 5. Microorganisms release enzymes extracellularly which in turn attack the substrate. A higher amount of proteins in the reaction medium is a positive measure of biodegradation. FIG. 5 indicates that the south pole magnetic field greatly enhanced the concentration of protein in this reactor (protein is produced from phenol degradation). In this experiment it was observed that the pH changed from 7.9 to 8.5.

FIG. 6 shows the effect of repeatedly changing the south pole magnetic field to a north pole magnetic field and a north pole magnetic field to a south pole magnetic field in the bioreactor. The south pole field was consistently activating whereas the north pole field was inhibitory.

FIG. 7 and 8 show the effect of magnetic field on the rate of biodegradation and protein concentration under 1500 and 3500 gauss magnetic south pole. The highest rate of biodegradation is 25.6 ppm/h and the highest protein concentration8s 2250 ug/ml after 11 days under 1500 gauss.

FIG. 9 shows the effect of magnetic field on the rate of O2 consumption. It indicates that the highest rate of O2 consumption is 1649 nmol/ml*hr after 10 days under the influence of 1500 gauss magnetic south pole.

TABLE 2 ______________________________________ Effects of acclimation on the rate of biodegradation Rate of biodegradation Description (ppm/hr) ______________________________________ without magnet and unacclimated 4.25 without magnet after magnetic acclimation 8.96 with magnet (1500 gauss) 25.6 after magnetic acclimation with magnet (3500 gauss) 14.4 after magnetic acclimation ______________________________________


EXAMPLE 2

The recirculation flow type bioreactor shown in FIG. 2 was used in these studies. For pre-exposure, free microorganisms were exposed to south pole magnetic fields for 3 days prior to use in the bioreactor which contained immobilized activated sludge and phenol. Oxygen, phenol concentration and pH were measured as in Example 1. Each experimental run was 1296 hours (54 days) in length.

Runs performed were:

1. Control: no magnetic on the bioreactor; bacteria not pre-exposed.

2. No magnetic field on the bioreactor; pre-exposed bacteria.

3. South magnetic pole exposure to bioreactor; pre-exposed bacteria.

4. Higher strength south magnetic pole exposure to bioreactor; pre-exposed bacteria.

Table 2 shows the results of these experimental runs. FIGS. 7 and 8 show the effect of magnetic fields on the rates of oxygen consumption which indicates that the 1500 gauss south pole magnetic field yielded the higher oxygen consumption rate of 2500 nmol/ml*hr after 15 hours into the run. FIG. 9 shows that oxygen consumption rates were higher for 1500 gauss south pole magnetic fields when compared to 3500 gauss fields.

TABLE 2 ______________________________________ Time Time 1500 gauss (days) 3500 gauss (days) ______________________________________ Maximum rate of 25.6 ppm/hr 11 14.4 ppm/hr 4 biodegradation Maximum rate of 1649 nmole/ 10 962 nmole/ 5 oxygen consumption ml*hr ml*hr Maximum protein 2250 ug/ml 11 465 ug/ml 4 concentration ______________________________________


EXAMPLE 3

A polyester copolymer of hydroxybutric acid and hydroxyvaleric acid (PHBV) is produced by bacteria in a reactor by fermenting a carbon source as shown in FIG. 10. When a bacteria such as Alcaligenes eutrophus is depleted of the nitrogen it requires to multiply, growth is inhibited. The carbon source, such as glucose, can then be added to the fermenter, causing the organism to make granules of polyester with the abundant carbon instead of using it to grow. The conventional process is so slow as to be economically unfeasible. The process is repeated with the exception that a south unipolar magnetic field is applied to the organism during the glucose fermenation step. The rate of fermentation will be substantially enhanced.

The effects of unipole application is further applicable in the field of biology. The application of a south magnetic field speeds up the reproduction of cells, while the north field slows reproduction.

Fermentation, a simple, anaerobic method to generate energy in the cell, is commonly used in yeast products and to produce alcholoic beverages. Carbohydrate molecules breakdown into simpler molecules such as ethyl alcohol, lactic acid, or carbon dioxide, releasing energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). An applied south field dramatically speeds up the fermentation process. Chemostats, with their controlled environment, are ideal rapid, mass reproduction of cells, through fermentation, in combination with a unipolar magnetic field.

Further, the magnetic fields influence the growth rate of the aerobically reproduced cells. The application of a south magnetic field increases the production of enzymes without fracturing the cells. The permeability of the cell walls is increased which allows for the influx and efflux of enzymes.

The magnetic fields affect the cells either of two ways. The first is through the cell wall and would include the production and expression of proteins, such as enzymes, insulin and other hormones, interferons and antibiotics. The second is affecting the cells intracellularly and retained the affect within the cell. The appropriate magnetic field is applied for a time period and an intensity which is based on the recepient of the field, the medium and the desired end result. Examples would be many new drugs under evaluation for their effectiveness against cancer and aids.

Although research has been done on the affects of magnetism in both fermentation and other biological processes, they have used bipolar, complex or rotating fields. The instant invention relates to the consistent use of either a north or south magnetic field to produce a desired result. Thus, the cell reproduction can be decreased or increased dependent on the requirements.

Although the invention has been illustrated by the foregoing examples, it is not to be considered as being limited to the materials and processes employed therein, but rather, the invention relates to the generic area as herein before disclosed. Various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit or scope thereof.

[c-ray]

http://www.google.com/patents?id=upANAAAAEBAJ&dq=6056872

United States Patent 6,641,725
Barnes November 4, 2003
Apparatus for the magnetic treatment of fluids


Abstract

A method and apparatus is disclosed for magnetic treatment of fluids by concentrating magnetic fields on the fluids. One embodiment of the invention generally comprises a length of a flexible magnet, with an adhesive backing, wrapped 1 or more times around the outside surface of a conduit through which a fluid is passed. In an alternate embodiment a length of a flexible magnet, with an adhesive backing, is wrapped 1 or more times against the inside surface of a conduit through which a fluid is passed. The flexible magnets have various magnetic pole arrangements and various methods for holding them in place.

Inventors: Barnes; Deborah (West Point, UT)
Appl. No.: 10/166,789
Filed: June 11, 2002

Current U.S. Class: 210/222 ; 335/303
Current International Class: B03C 1/28 (20060101); B03C 1/02 (20060101); B01D 035/06 (); C07F 001/48 ()
Field of Search: 210/222,695,223 335/302,303
References Cited [Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents

4216092 August 1980 Shalhoob et al.
5078871 January 1992 McCready
5348050 September 1994 Ashton
5776334 July 1998 Cho
6110380 August 2000 Barbera-Guillem
Foreign Patent Documents

WO 9816320 Apr., 1998 WO
Primary Examiner: Reifsnyder; David A.


Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for magnetic treatment of fluids, and comprising: a single continuous length of a flexible magnet wrapped 1 or more times around the outside circumference of a conduit to provide magnetic treatment of a fluid; and a means for holding said flexible magnet around said conduit through which said fluid flows.

2. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped around said conduit, having a south pole and a north pole with said south pole directed generally radially toward the central axis and said north pole directed generally away from said central axis.

3. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped around said conduit, having a south pole and a north pole with said north pole directed generally radially toward the central axis and said south pole directed generally away from said central axis.

4. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped around said conduit, with said flexible magnet having multiple south and north poles directed generally radially toward the central axis and multiple south and north poles directed generally away from said central axis.

5. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped around said conduit, with said flexible magnet having a thickness of 0.020 to 0.50 inches.

6. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped around said conduit, with said flexible magnet having a width 1/2 to 8 times the diameter of said conduit measured along the length of said conduit.

7. An apparatus as in claim 1, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped completely around said conduit's circumference, 1 to 24 times.

8. An apparatus for magnetic treatment of fluids, and comprising: a single continuous length of a flexible magnet wrapped 1 or more times inside a conduit to provide magnetic treatment of a fluid; and a means for holding said flexible magnet onto said conduit's inside surface through which said fluid flows.

9. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped inside said conduit, with said flexible magnet having a south pole and a north pole with said south pole directed generally radially toward the central axis and said north pole directed generally away from said central axis.

10. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped inside said conduit, with said flexible magnet having a south pole and a north pole with said north pole directed generally radially toward the central axis and said south pole directed generally away from said central axis.

11. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped inside said conduit, with said flexible magnet having multiple south and north poles directed generally radially toward the central axis and multiple south and north poles directed generally away from said central axis.

12. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped inside said conduit, with said flexible magnet having a thickness of 0.020 to 0.50 inches.

13. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped inside said conduit with said flexible magnet having a width 1/2to 8 times the diameter of said conduit measured along the length of said conduit.

14. An apparatus as in claim 8, wherein said flexible magnet is wrapped inside said conduit's inside circumference 1 to 4 times.
Description


BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a method and apparatus for magnetic treatment of fluids. A considerable amount of study and development has been conducted indicating empirically that magnetically treated fluids, such as water, contribute effectively to the prevention, loosening, and removal of crust and scale from the inner surfaces of conduits, tanks, and the like. It has been found that exposure of fluids to predominantly south pole magnetic fields are particularly effective in reducing crust and scale buildup on conduit walls.

Prior art devices for accomplishing this fluid or liquid treatment have used plural horseshoe or bar magnets or the like where the magnets are adjacent to the pipe through which the fluids flow, in various pole arrangements, comprising a casing or plate to which the magnets are attached so they can be attached to a conduit. It has been found that a flexible magnetic device, that does not require plural bar magnets attached to a casing or plate to be attached to a conduit, can provide fluid treatment at a much-reduced cost.

It has also been found that flexible magnets, especially high strength flexible magnets with a gauss rating of 2,000 or more are very effective in the treatment of fluids, especially of smaller conduits. A flexible magnet can be sized to provide a larger surface area, to provide a larger magnetic field, to be a very effective fluid treatment device, and at a very low cost. A flexible magnet can be wrapped several times around a conduit to increase the magnetic field strength. A flexible magnet is faster and easier to install, especially when provided with an adhesive backing. A flexible magnet wrapped completely around the circumference of a conduit provides a more uniform magnetic field than with any other type of magnet, further increasing the effectiveness of the device. Therefore, it would be exceedingly advantageous to magnetically treat fluids in a more efficient and economical manner than has been done previously. These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description taken together with the accompanying drawings.


DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART

Applicant is aware of the following U.S. Pat. Nos. concerning magnetic fluid treatment. Vermeiren U.S. Pat. No. 2,652,925 teaches a treatment device which produces a magnetic field and a passage for the liquid to be treated. Menold U.S. Pat. No. 4,265,754 provides an apparatus for treating fresh water by producing a magnetic field in proximity to a flow of water within a water conduit. Zimmerman U.S. Pat. No. 4,265,755 provides a magnetic water treating device within a conduit. This device provides easy assembly without adversely affecting the ultimate functional capability of the overall unit. Schiesser U.S. Pat. No. 4,265,756 provides a change device for sieves used for filtering plastic materials. The sieves can be changed with this device without interrupting the transport of the material which is being processed. Kulish U.S. Pat. No. 4,605,496 provides a device for magnetic treatment of liquids by concentrating magnetic fields on the liquids to provide descaling and deliming. Weisenbarger U.S. Pat. No. 4,711,271 provides a magnetic fluid conditioner for abating the adherence of precipitates in conduits transmitting a variety of fluids which contain unwanted compounds which will precipitate and adhere to the inner walls of the conduits. Walsh U.S. Pat. No. 4,836,932 provides a method for the fabrication and use in modifying the physicochemical properties of water. This device uses fine particle super ferromagnets or super paramagnets dispersed in nonmagnetic media. McGrath U.S. Pat. No. 5,024,759 provides a device for magnetically treating a flowing fluid. This device uses a magnetic structure comprising the plurality of magnets made from rare earth materials and are arranged around the inside surface of a ring and with the north poles of the magnets facing inwardly. Holcomb U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,751 provides water treatment by using magnetic treatment or electromagnetic treatment by direct injection in the fluid stream or a combination of such water treatment systems. Note Column 3, lines 33-48, regarding the magnet orientations. Spiegel U.S. Pat. No 5,200,071 provides a fluid treatment system for changing the rates of growth of certain crystals formed within a fluid. This device has a variable speed motor and a wheel assembly mounted on the shaft. An array of magnets is concentrically arranged in a circular pattern about the shaft on the inner surface of each of the disks wherein sufficient magnetic force is provided to accomplish beneficial effects on impurities of the fluid. Clair U.S. Pat. No. 5,227,683 provides a permanent magnet fluid generator with powerfull magnetic field condensers which utilize neodymium magnets to magnetically saturate steel pole pieces. In this device, the fluid generates an electrical current that can be utilized to protect the pipe from scale and corrosion. Curtis U.S. Pat. No. 5,238,558 teaches a magneto-hydrodynamic system and method for the treatment of pipes and the fluid carried in the pipes to prevent scaling and build-up of deposits. In this device, a pipe for carrying fluid and four magnets are utilized, with each magnet having a magnetic field density of about 6,700 gauss, end pole pieces on each end of the magnet units and a top pole piece covering the surface of the magnets on a side of the magnets opposite the side in contact with the pipe to be treated. Ellison U.S. Pat. No. 5,296,141 provides a magnetic device for treating fluid flowing through a conduit. Permanent magnets are utilized and a mass of non-ferromagnetic filler material in the interior compartment encapsulates the magnets. Schoepe U.S. Pat. No. 5,378,362 provides a system for treating water to reduce calcium carbonate deposits. Pairs of magnets are utilized to facilitate changing of the spacing between adjacent magnets. Glass U.S. Pat. No. 6,056,872 provides a device for the magnetic treatment of fluids. The device includes a plurality of magnets for imparting a magnetic field is arranged peripherally about a pipe. Paterson U.S. Pat. No. 6,171,504 provides a magnetic water or fluid treatment system consisting of strong magnets arranged in a specific spacial and polar orientation to form a treating device for mounting on fluid-carrying pipes.


SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is therefore an object of the invention to magnetically treat fluids in a more efficient and economical manner than has been done previously.

It is a further object of the invention to magnetically treat fluids in order to impart properties to the fluid which effectively contribute to descaling and the like by passing them through a magnetically oriented field which is either a predominantly south pole or predominantly north pole field.

Another object of the invention is to magnetically treat fluids by passing them through a magnetic field which has multiple south and north fields.

The preferred embodiment of the invention generally comprises a flexible magnet wrapped 1 or more times around and circumference of a conduit through which a fluid is passed. The flexible magnet arranged on the outside surface of the conduit in such a manner that the south pole is directed radially inwardly toward the central axis of the conduit and the north pole is directed radially outward away from the central axis in order to concentrate the south pole magnetic field more strongly upon the fluid. A means of holding said flexible magnet in place such as adhesive backing, plastic wire ties, tape, or other methods.

In an alternate embodiment, the orientation of the poles has been reversed such that the liquid is subjected to predominantly the north pole magnetic field. In yet another embodiment, the flexible magnet having multiple south and north poles directed generally radially toward the central axis and multiple south and north poles directed generally away from said central axis.

Another embodiment of the invention generally comprises a flexible magnet wrapped inside a conduit through which a fluid is passed. The flexible magnet arranged on the inside surface of the conduit in such a manner that the south pole is directed radially inwardly toward the central axis of the conduit and the north pole is directed radially outward away from the central axis in order to concentrate the south pole magnetic field more strongly upon the fluid.

In an alternate embodiment, the orientation of the poles has been reversed such that the liquid is subjected to predominantly the north pole magnetic field. In yet another embodiment, the flexible magnet having multiple south and north poles directed generally radially toward the central axis and multiple south and north poles directed generally away from said central axis. A means of holding said flexible magnet in place such as glue, epoxy, or other methods.

It is also contemplated that a flexible magnet could be wrapped around electrodes or other devices which may be directly in the flow of a fluid, or in a container of a fluid, so that the fluid surrounding it is treated reducing scale and the like on these devices.

The preferred embodiment of the subject magnetic fluid treatment device is shown by way of example in the accompanying drawings without attempting to show all of the various forms and modifications in which the invention might be embodied; the invention being measured by the amended claims, not by the details of this disclosure. These and other, further and more specific objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description thereof, taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:


BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention according to the concepts of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side section view of the device of FIG. 1 taken substantially along line 2--2 of FIG. 1

FIG. 3 is a side section view of the device of FIG. 1 taken substantially along line 3--3 of FIG. 1

REFERENCE NUMBERS IN DRAWINGS 10 apparatus for the treatment of fluids 11 flexible magnet 12 conduit 13 leading edge of flexible magnet 14 trailing edge of flexible magnet 15 adhesive backing


DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 numeral 10 depicts an apparatus for the treatment of fluids constructed in accordance with the concepts of the present invention. The flexible magnet 11 is made of a high energy permanently magnetized flexible magnetic material which is corrosion resistant and magnetically oriented with the south magnetic pole located at the internal radius thereof and the north pole located at the external radius thereof. The flexible magnet 11 is wrapped completely around the circumference of conduit 12 with the leading edge 13 and the trailing edge 14 of the flexible magnet 11 butted against each other so that the conduit 12 is surrounded complete around its circumference. The flexible magnet 11 is attached to the conduit 12 by the adhesive backing 15 on the inside radius of the flexible magnet 11.

Thus it should be apparent from the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment that the subject apparatus for the treatment of fluids 10 as herein shown and described accomplished the objects of the invention and solved the problems attended to the magnetic treatment of fluids. Various modifications may be incorporated in the structure without departing from the scope of the present invention, namely, more than one wrap around the circumference of the conduit by the flexible magnet.

It is also to be understood that the following claims are intended to cover all of the generic and specific features of the invention herein described and all statements of the scope of the invention which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall there between.

Turning now to a further embodiment according to FIG. 3, therein is depicted a yet further embodiment which falls within the scope of the present invention. Therein are depicted three sets of magnets, a first set M7 and M8, a second set M9 and M10, and a third set M11 and M12. Each of the sets of magnets are positioned peripherally relative to the exterior of the conduit (10) which has a center axis (12). Each of the sets of magnets are mounted in a coplanar manner and each plane is perpendicular to the center axis (12). Whereas in FIG. 2 the magnets were placed in physical contact abutting one another, this is not a requirement of the invention. FIG. 3 depicts wherein the sets of magnets may be placed in a spaced-apart relation. Also depicted on FIG. 3 is a schematic depiction of liquid flow vectors a, b1, b2, c1, and c2. In accordance with the embodiment on FIG. 3, two of the three sets of magnets are comprised of at least two magnets having different magnetic strengths. As is depicted on FIG. 3, the flux lines extending from magnets M7 and M8 are of equal strength and do not substantially penetrate into the center axis region of the conduit (10). With respect to the flux lines inserted by magnets M9 and M10, in this set the magnet M10 is of a higher strength than its corresponding magnet M9 and the flux lines (FL3) of the magnetic field imparted are displaced with respect to the center axis of the conduit such that magnetic field imparted by magnet M10 on the flowing fluid exerts beyond the center axis (12) and towards magnet M9. With respect now to the third set of magnets, as may be seen from FIG. 3, the flux lines (FL4) emanating from magnet M11 are substantially stronger than the flux lines emanating from magnet M12 as depicted on the figure. Conversely to the flux direction of magnets M9, M10 and the present magnet set that make a field imparted by magnet M11 extend beyond the center axis (12) of the conduit (10) in the direction of magnet M12. As has been described previously, as can be seen from FIG. 3, each of the regions of fluid flow, as represented by flow vectors a, b1, b2, c1 and c2 each pass through a magnetic field and thereby are imparted with magnetic conditioning. It is to be understood that the invention requires only two sets of magnets, at least one set of which has at least two magnets of dissimilar magnetic strength.

With respect now to FIG. 4, there is depicted a cross sectional illustration of a still further embodiment of the invention. Therein are depicted at least two magnet pairs M13 and M14, and the second pair M15 and M16. A third magnet pair M17 and M18 is also depicted by a dotted line representation. FIG. 4 illustrates the possibility that the arrangements of pairs of magnets may have different radial spacings, and also illustrates the non-symmetrical magnetic flux profile of a magnet set which is non-symmetrical with respect to the center axis of the conduit. In the figure, the arrangement of the first pair and the second pair of magnets are at approximately 90.degree. radial offset with respect to one another. The relative radial spacing of the first pair and third pair of magnets are at a radial offset of greater than 90.degree. and less than 180.degree. with respect to one another. Such merely illustrates the point that it is understood that the present inventive scope is not to be limited by any specific radial arrangements of the sets of magnets with respect to one another, nor is it required that the magnets from different magnet sets abut one another as in FIG. 2, but may be spaced apart as in FIG. 3. Various further combinations such as having two sets of magnets abut one another and a third set of magnets, (as well as any further sets of magnets) spaced apart from the first and second magnet sets are also contemplated. Also, although FIGS. 2 and 3 have illustrated respectively two and three sets of magnets having two magnets each, it is contemplated that a greater number of magnet sets, as well as a greater number of magnets within each set, operating according to the general inventive principles as described herein, are also expressly contemplated to be within the present inventive scope.

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http://www.google.com/patents?id=9oADAAAAEBAJ&dq=6056872

United States Patent 6,056,872
Glass May 2, 2000
Magnetic device for the treatment of fluids


Abstract

A device for the magnetic treatment of fluids such as gases or liquids, wherein such device includes a plurality of magnets for imparting a magnetic field is arranged peripherally about a pipe or other fluid conduit within which is a flowing fluid. The device utilizes a plurality of magnets with different magnetic field strengths for varying the field flux along the length of the pipe or other fluid conduit.

Inventors: Glass; David Saul (Tokyo, JP)
Assignee: The Magnetizer Group, Inc. (Fountainville, PA)
Appl. No.: 09/019,950
Filed: February 6, 1998

Current U.S. Class: 210/223 ; 123/538; 166/66.5
Current International Class: C02F 1/48 (20060101); F02M 27/00 (20060101); F02M 27/04 (20060101); A01C 1/00 (20060101); B01D 035/06 ()
Field of Search: 210/222,695,223 123/536,538 166/665
References Cited [Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents

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D175814 October 1955 Wells
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D262306 December 1981 Carpenter
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4153559 May 1979 Sanderson
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4372852 February 1983 Kovacs
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5269916 December 1993 Clair
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Primary Examiner: Reifsnyder; David A.
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Dann, Dorfman, Herrell and Skillman Eland; Stephen H.


Claims

I claim:

1. An apparatus for the magnetic conditioni