Application of High Magnetic Field to Chemical and Physical Processes

We have researched the effects of high vertical magnetic field (15 T, 1500 T²m^-1) on (1) laser-induced convection of benzene solution of a photochromic compound and (2) magnesium silicate membrane tube formation reaction. In (1), the speed of convection of the solution is retarded initially and then accelerated in a magnetic field gradient of -1500 T²m^-1, whereas it is accelerated initially and then retarded in a field gradient of +1200 T²m^-1. The results are interpreted in terms of magnetic force on the solution. In (2), the membrane tubes grow helically in a magnetic field of 15 T, whereas they grow straight upward in zero field. In situ observation revealed that sodium silicate aqueous solution undergoes circular convection in the magnetic field only during the reaction. The results are interpreted in terms of the Lorentz force on the solution flowing out of the tubes.