Campo eletromagnético pulsado como estratégia de mitigação da infestação de limnoperna fortunei em usinas hidrelétricas

Abstract

This work aims to evaluate the efficiency of the application of the pulsed electromagnetic field in the assisted precipitation of calcium carbonate, to decrease the supply of dissolved calcium in the water, as an innovative strategy to prevent and control the infestation of the golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei) in hydroelectric plants. However, pulsed electromagnetic field applications can also be found to prevent scale build-up in pipes and heat exchangers, for reducing of hard water. With an analysis of the actual river water parameters, it can be seen that electrical conductivity can be used as an indirect approach to monitor the level of calcium carbonate concentration, and keep the amount of dissolved calcium ions low to minimize environmental and economic problems caused by the golden mussel. To obtain the assisted precipitation of the calcium carbonate resulting from the magnetic force acting on the calcium, bicarbonate and carbonates ions dissolved in the water, a pulsed electromagnetic field was applied at 90 degrees of the direction of water displacement inside a plastic pipe, combined with a sudden increase in travel speed. The correct choice of procedures and the way to conduct the tests to validate the concept of this work, is essential to ensure that it does not result in low repeatability and reproducibility in the studies carried out.