# Investigation of Mechanical and Durability Properties of Concrete Mixed with Water Exposed to a Magnetic Field

Authors: R. Dharmaraj; G. K. Arunvivek; Alagar Karthick; V. Mohanavel; Bhagavathi Perumal; S. Rajkumar
Journal: Advances in Civil Engineering
 (2021)

---

## Abstract

Water is a crucial element in the concrete mix and is alone responsible for concrete work ability and cement hydration. The massive quantity of potable water consumed during the production of concrete is a concern. In general, fresh and hard concrete qualities are most influenced by the quantity and water quality. The use of magnetic water in concrete gives many benefits when it comes to increasing its properties. A substantial quantity of water can be saved by substituting potable water with magnetized water in concrete. In this study, the effects of magnetized water on the concrete's mechanical and durability properties were tested. Four different combinations were made using potable water and magnetic water. Mechanical properties including compression, flexural, tensile strength, and SEM analysis were evaluated. Water absorption, acid resistance, and corrosion resistance were all tested as part of the durability tests. According to the results of the experiments, employing magnetic water for concrete preparation and curing enhanced the mechanical properties and durability. Concrete mix MMMC prepared and subjected to curing using magnetized water has a 14.86% greater compressive strength than ordinary concrete. Similarly, tensile and flexural strength of mix MMMC amplified to 14.32% and 14.02%, respectively. Besides, the consumption of chemical admixtures also considerably reduced in magnetized water imbibed concrete.


---

## Body

## 1. Introduction

We are living in an environment that is consistently changing and modernized due to the technological developments. Due to demographic compression and tension, a paradigm shift towards state-of-the-art technologies has become in-dispensable [1]. Any paradigm shift towards advancing technology or materials shall have to be proven for its technical feasibility, environmental compatibility, and social acceptability. Globally, concrete has been ruling the roost as a key construction material in the construction field. Compared to other engineering materials, concrete is economical and long-lasting as it possesses high compressive strength and can be cast in any desired shape [2, 3]. At the same time, the corrosive and weathering effects are also minimal. The construction industry became the second large user of portable water next to agriculture. Every year water demand continuously increases with escalating construction activities [4]. In the realm of construction, concrete mixing requires potable water and curing and is highly helpful in the hydration process. Water is a crucial ingredient for hydration. Proper curing using impurity-free water is essential to reduce the hydration temperatures. Exothermic cement hydration is the chemical interaction between cement and water [5].The attainment of design strength revolves around the induced hydration processes driven by the mixing water. The reaction of cement compounds with water liberates a considerable amount of heat [6, 7]. Usually, potable water is used for making concrete. In concrete production, yearly consumption exceeds one billion tons. Additionally, concrete mixes using magnetized water reduce cement content by roughly 5%. They are 45% higher in slump values and 18% higher in compression strengths, respectively, than the control concrete [8]. The contemporary research contemplates replacing the cement, M-sand, and aggregates with industrial by-products. Few researchers attempted to replace potable water with magnetized water in concrete. Under the right conditions, water may be magnetized by passing it through a magnetic field created by an eternal magnet of a specific intensity. The surface tension of water is reduced, and flowability properties increase if it is magnetized [9, 10]. Magnetized water does not show any physical difference if it attained magnetic strength, but if it is subjected to a magnetic field, it induces a significant change in water characteristics. The thinner stratum surrounding the concrete particles compared with the typical one is generated due to the minor magnetized water molecules, and so, the smaller water content in the mix has gradual effects on improving concrete qualities [11, 12]. These strange properties of water are different and cause a variety of visible effects. At the nanoscale, water is not standardized and is found in clusters based on circumferential temperature and forces. Suppose water passes via a magnetic field at a continual speed, and the molecular properties of cluster change. Molecules are strongly influenced by external factors like atmospheric temperature and applied pressure [13, 14].For the most part, the characteristics of the ingredients in concrete mix compositions have a strong correlation with concrete fracture parameters. In fact, water is the key constituent of concrete among several ingredients that induce notable changes in its properties [15, 16]. By and large, technical feasibility stems from the structural and functional dependability of material from a certain perspective of its strength and durability [17]. Water will gain diamagnetism after smearing a magnetic field [18]. Diamagnetism refers to magnetized substances with pair-up electrons opposing the path of a magnetic field that nullifies the magnetic moment due to the rotation of a pair of electrons opposite to the other. Consequently, molecules in water are motivated by a given direction [19, 20].The primary molecules or atoms of a magnetic field are aligned in streamlines with an additional magnetic field. This can only be done with water if each molecule has an electron in various amounts. Water (H2O) includes 10 electrons, so that it is not magnet-orientated. The structure comprises relaxation bonds of angles not exceeding 105° [21, 22]. If the water clusters are disintegrated by the magnetic field, the bond angle can be reduced to increase solubility. If water gets magnetized, the molecular angle between hydrogen bonds decreased by 1.5° and owing to a reduction in bond strength of clusters, small clusters will be converted into tiny clusters [23, 24]. This leads to a decrease in the degree of consolidation and an expansion in molecular size. Thus, magnetic water has a smaller viscosity than drinking water. This leads to E. C., surface tension, pH, and pressure permeability variations [25].Currently, various efforts have been made to develop improvised concrete using magnetized water [26]. Several researchers reported that there had been considerable improvement found in the cement-based composites prepared using magnetic water. Magnetic water improves not only the strength properties but also the durability properties [27, 28]. Experimental results fortified that using magnetic water in concrete may increase its fluidity and structural performance in different aspects. The applicability of magnetic water and its influence on concrete properties, namely, workability, strength, durability, and porosity, have been investigated and reported in this study. The impacts of curing with magnetic water have also been studied. However, the properties of magnetic water may slightly differ depending on the physiochemical properties of the water and the strength of the magnetic field at assorted conditions.


## 2. Materials and Methods

### 2.1. Materials

#### 2.1.1. Cement

Cement is a crucial component in the making of concrete [29]. It is an adhesive included to make the building rigid and bind together sand and aggregate. In this research, ordinary Portland cement of grade 43 having a specific gravity of 3.15 is used, consistency is 31% and fineness modulus is 1%.


#### 2.1.2. Fine Aggregate (M-Sand)

Aggregates are the major components of the concrete mix. Fine aggregates were utilised for M-Sand. Fine aggregate is generally crushed stones or natural river sand [30]. The specific gravity and void ratio are 2.64 and 1.84, respectively. After a sieve analysis, the M-Sand was classified as zone III. The percentage of water absorption M-sand was 1.2%. Table 1 presents the properties of fine aggregate. Figure 1(a) shows M-sand, and Figure 1(b) shows coarse aggregate.Table 1
M-Sand and coarse aggregate properties.
M-sandCoarse aggregatePropertiesValuesSpecific gravity2.642.74Bulking density1.81 g/ml1.47 g/mlFineness modulus2.834.30Void ratio1.891.22Surface moisture2.86%2.10%Figure 1
(a) M-sand; (b) coarse aggregates.
(a)(b)


#### 2.1.3. Coarse Aggregate

Coarse aggregate is a component of aggregates used in the concrete mix. Many coarse aggregates are sand, gravel, crushed stones, slag, recycled concrete, and geosynthetic aggregates. Here, used coarse aggregate is locally available crushed granites aggregate of 20 mm conforming to IS383 [31, 32]. The specific gravity and void ratio for 20 mm are calculated to be 2.74 and 1.22 correspondingly. The percentage of water absorption of coarse aggregate was 0.86%. The coarse aggregate parameters are listed in Table 1.


#### 2.1.4. Magnetic Water

Water that has been treated with a magnetic field but has not obtained magnetic strength is referred to as magnetized water. In general, a magnetic field modifies the characteristics of water and enhances the qualities of concrete [27]. The solubility of water particles that a magnetic field has broken down improves, but the bond angles of water molecules that the magnetic field decreases have broken down. Because of a couple of electrons that reject the magnetic moment of each other after having been subjected to a durable magnetic field, water magnetises in the inverse position of the magnetic field [33, 34]. As a result of decreased hydrogen bond formation, the external magnetic field separates specific orientations found in water molecules and larger water clusters into smaller clusters or standard water molecules.The bond pairs are redirected and squeezed closer together by the magnetic field. The repulsion between electrons in H2O is condensed by a decreased bond angle [35, 36]. This is due to the lower covering of bond pairs and contraction of water molecules, while also improving water solubility by reducing the energy required to maintain stability and by packing more solute into the same quantity of water. Magnetized water has a pH of 7.63, whereas distilled water and tap water have a pH of 7.01 and 6.72. The pH of distilled water is significantly lower than magnetized water, indicating that magnetized water has an alkaline character. Table 2 lists the physical characteristics of water.Table 2
Physical properties of water.
Parameters (mg/lit)Tap waterMagnetic waterPermissible value as per code IS 3025pH value6.727.639Hardness538336500Total and dissolved solids700 and 500500 and 4001500Sulphate content8006901500Chloride content3431961500 to 2000


#### 2.1.5. Mechanism of Magnetic Water

Magnetized water is water that has travelled through a magnetic flux. The magnetic properties of water are governed by its purity and the kind of magnetization [37]. After magnetism, the structure of water is coupled in a single channel, and the size of the molecule varies with the angle of bond changes, resulting in increased fluidity and contact area with the help of magnetism so that the hydration rate will rise [38]. After the magnetization, strong hydrogen bonds were established, which leads to improved viscosity, and the static magnetic field has also been studied. The alignment of water molecules at normal temperature is seen in Figure 2.Figure 2
Water molecules before magnetic treatment (source: Taghried Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid et al. [39]).Hydrogen-bonded water particles begin to form clumps despite the magnetic field's influence. The magnetic field cluster creation is shown in Figure3.Figure 3
Water molecules after magnetic treatment (source: Taghried Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid et al. (2017)).The evaluated compressive strength is 10% and 5% cement dosage savings. Increased features may be achieved [39, 40]. The physiochemical and thermal characteristics are greatly influenced by the molecular structure (Figure 4).Figure 4
Structure of water (Harsha Ramachandran, Sruthi Das K K (2018) [41]).The usage of magnetizing water ensures the enhancement of the mechanical characteristics of the concrete. Figure5 indicates that magnetization can only change the flow direction of the magnetized particles and not their energy [41]. Once water is subjected to magnetization, it is antimagnetized and repels the minerals and additives in the concrete matrix. This characteristic plays a crucial role in producing high-quality concrete with the capacity to resist deterioration [42].Figure 5
The trajectory of indicted particles movement before and after the magnetizing system (Harsha Ramachandran, Sruthi Das K K (2018) [41]).This methodology has been used to achieve the objectives of making concrete, magnetic water usage, and mechanical and durability aspects of concrete.M25concrete grade was used to produce conventional and magnetized water concrete to achieve that. The research framework work is illustrated in Figure 6.Figure 6
Framework of the research.


### 2.2. Mixing Proportions

The mix design was completed following IS 10262 : 2009 [43]. It is recommended that concrete of M25 grade has a mean strength of 31.60 N/mm2. The water-to-cement ratio is 0.40. The mixing proportions for one cubic metre of concrete are shown in Tables 3 and 4.Table 3
Concrete mixing proportion for 1 m3.
MaterialsCementM-sandCoarse aggregateWaterQuantity (kg/m3)492.5837.31092197Table 4
Mixing proportions for 1 m3.
Specific nameCement (kg/m3)M-sand (kg/m3)Coarse aggregate (kg/m3)Water (lit/m3)NMNC492.5837.31092197NMMC492.5837.31092197MMNC492.5837.31092197MMMC492.5837.31092197Compressive strength was found by 150 mm concrete cubes, tensile strength was determined using 150 × 300 mm cylindrical, and flexural strength was determined using a 100 × 100 × 500 mm prism. The samples are made and cured under the magnetized and potable water. Test and specimen details are shown in Table5. The experiment has four mixtures, which are labeled as follows:NMNC: the concrete is made with potable water and curing with potable water,NMMC: magnetized water is used to cure the concrete that has been prepared with potable water. MMNC: the concrete is made using magnetized water and then cured with potable water,MMMC: the concrete is made with magnetized water and curing with magnetized water.Table 5
Details of the test specimens.
Properties studiedSpecimen shapeProperties studiedSpecimen sizes in mmNumber of specimensConcrete strength related propertiesCubeCompressive strength150 × 150 × 15048CylinderSplit tensile strength150 × 30024PrismFlexural strength100 × 100 × 50024Durability studiesCubeWater absorption150 × 15012CubeAcid test150 × 15024CylinderRapid chloride permeability test100 × 5008CylinderWeight loss method60 × 15008Since the practice of magnetic water has been analyzed, the quantity of concrete constituents is not varied.


### 2.3. Test Methods

#### 2.3.1. Workability of Fresh Concrete

Slump Cone Test. In order to assess whether or not the fresh concrete was workable, it was subjected to a slump cone test. The IS 1199–1959 slump cone test was conducted [44]. According to the test findings, the influence of magnetic water on concrete workability was identified. The slump values of the concrete including magnetic water were compared to the control concrete's slump value. The water-to-cement ratio was kept constant at 0.40. Figure 7(a) depicts the slump cone test of fresh concrete.Figure 7
(a) Slump cone test; (b) hardened concrete.
(a)(b)


#### 2.3.2. Mechanical Properties of Hardened Concrete

Compressive Strength (IS: 516-1959). To categorise hardened concrete, one of the most important characteristics is compressive strength. On a 2000 KN Digital Compression Testing Machine according to IS: 516–1956 [45, 46], the compressive strength of the concrete was tested. A cube of 150 mm by 150 mm by 150 mm was used to evaluate concrete's compressive strength. A total of three specimens would need to be assessed 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after the cast was completed. Specimens were assigned their ultimate compressive strength based on the compressive strength of each of their mixes. The following was used to compute the maximum load at failure and the average compressive strength:(1)compressive strengthNmm2=ultimate load inNarea of cross sectionmm2.Split Tensile Strength (IS: 516-1959). Cylindrical moulds of 150 mm diameter and 300 mm height were utilised. Oil was applied to the inside surfaces of the mould to make it easier to remove the cylinder. Over its whole length, concrete was poured and compacted uniformly. It was determined that the concrete split tensile strength was 2000 kN, in line with IS: 516–1959 [45, 47]. On the concrete's widest splitting section, the tests were conducted. A pair of steel packing pieces was placed on the top and bottom faces of each block specimen in contact with the loading machine's plate before testing [37]. The load was gradually increased until the concrete was shattered into two halves. When measuring splitting tensile strength, mean failure loads were used. After 7 and 28 days, the specimens were examined to see if they had changed. After measuring the maximum load at failure, the average split tensile strength was calculated using the following equation:(2)split tensile strengthNmm2=2PπLD,where P denotes the ultimate load at failure (N), L denotes the length of the specimen (mm), and D is the diameter of the cylindrical specimen (mm).Flexural Strength (IS: 516-1959). A prism with dimensions of 100 mm × 100 mm × 500 mm was cast and tested in a 1000 kN Universal Testing Machine under two-point loading [45, 48]. The maximum stress critical may occur at any point in the middle third of the prism's length with the rate of loading 1.4 kN/min in the two-point loading. In order to compute flexural strength from the failure load, the specimens' failure loads were recorded. The specimens were also investigated 7 and 28 days after casting. As a consequence, the average flexural strength was calculated using equation (3) and the ultimate load at failure measurement:(3)flexural strengthNmm2=3FL2bd2,where F is the load at the fracture point, L is the length of the support span in millimetres, b is the width in millimetres, and d is the thickness in millimetres (mm).


#### 2.3.3. Durability Properties of Hardened Concrete

Water Absorption. When steel reinforcement corrodes, water absorption is a critical factor that affects the structural integrity and long-term performance of the structure [49]. Oven-dried 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm cubes were tested for 72 hours at 105°C. As a result, the dry weight was determined, and the dried samples were cooled to room temperature and weighed. For a period of 24 hours, the dried sample was submerged in water. The weight of the concrete cubes was recorded after 24 hours.Acid Attack. In the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), there is no standard entirely dedicated to testing the durability of concrete mixtures to the ASTM C267. A standard test technique for mortars, grouts, and polymer concrete was utilised as the basis for this test [50, 51]. The concrete cubes were immersed in a 3% sulphuric acid solution for 14 and 28 days. In 20 litres of distilled water, 3% of sulphuric acid 1 N was added to make the acid solution. After 14 and 28 days from the date of immersion, observations were conducted [52]. When the concrete cubes were removed from the acid curing process after 14 or 28 days, they were cleaned and kept for 24 hours at room temperature.Rapid Chloride Permeability. Corrosion mostly induced by chloride ion infiltration, which decreases reinforcement passivity. To estimate the electrical conductivity of corrosion, a six-hour chloride penetration test was performed according to ASTM- C1202 [53]. For concrete samples, the resistance of concrete samples to chloride ion penetration (RCPT) specification specifies how well concrete samples resist the infiltration of chloride ions [48]. The frequency of the current flowing over concrete was measured with an RCPT apparatus. The entire charge passed has been calculated in units of coulombs. Based on the charge transferred, the chloride permeability is shown in Table 6 (ASTM-C1202). The data logger collects the reading with its starting readings at each record time. After the last reading, the system stops at the end of the log. The following equation measures the average flow rate across a single cell:(4)Q=900×I0+2I30+2I60+2I90+2I120+2I150+2I210+2I240+2I270+2I300+2I300+I360,where Q is the current passing over a cell (Coulombs), I0 is the current initial measurement of mA, and I30,I60,I90,I120,I150,I210,I240,I270,I300,I330, and I360 denote the current reading taken at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 210, 240, 270, 300, 330, and 360 minutes in mA.Table 6
Chloride permeability base on charge transmitted (ASTM-C1202).
Coulombs (charge passed)Chloride permeability>4000High2000 to 4000Moderate1000 to 2000Low100 to 1000Very low<100Negligible


## 2.1. Materials

### 2.1.1. Cement

Cement is a crucial component in the making of concrete [29]. It is an adhesive included to make the building rigid and bind together sand and aggregate. In this research, ordinary Portland cement of grade 43 having a specific gravity of 3.15 is used, consistency is 31% and fineness modulus is 1%.


### 2.1.2. Fine Aggregate (M-Sand)

Aggregates are the major components of the concrete mix. Fine aggregates were utilised for M-Sand. Fine aggregate is generally crushed stones or natural river sand [30]. The specific gravity and void ratio are 2.64 and 1.84, respectively. After a sieve analysis, the M-Sand was classified as zone III. The percentage of water absorption M-sand was 1.2%. Table 1 presents the properties of fine aggregate. Figure 1(a) shows M-sand, and Figure 1(b) shows coarse aggregate.Table 1
M-Sand and coarse aggregate properties.
M-sandCoarse aggregatePropertiesValuesSpecific gravity2.642.74Bulking density1.81 g/ml1.47 g/mlFineness modulus2.834.30Void ratio1.891.22Surface moisture2.86%2.10%Figure 1
(a) M-sand; (b) coarse aggregates.
(a)(b)


### 2.1.3. Coarse Aggregate

Coarse aggregate is a component of aggregates used in the concrete mix. Many coarse aggregates are sand, gravel, crushed stones, slag, recycled concrete, and geosynthetic aggregates. Here, used coarse aggregate is locally available crushed granites aggregate of 20 mm conforming to IS383 [31, 32]. The specific gravity and void ratio for 20 mm are calculated to be 2.74 and 1.22 correspondingly. The percentage of water absorption of coarse aggregate was 0.86%. The coarse aggregate parameters are listed in Table 1.


### 2.1.4. Magnetic Water

Water that has been treated with a magnetic field but has not obtained magnetic strength is referred to as magnetized water. In general, a magnetic field modifies the characteristics of water and enhances the qualities of concrete [27]. The solubility of water particles that a magnetic field has broken down improves, but the bond angles of water molecules that the magnetic field decreases have broken down. Because of a couple of electrons that reject the magnetic moment of each other after having been subjected to a durable magnetic field, water magnetises in the inverse position of the magnetic field [33, 34]. As a result of decreased hydrogen bond formation, the external magnetic field separates specific orientations found in water molecules and larger water clusters into smaller clusters or standard water molecules.The bond pairs are redirected and squeezed closer together by the magnetic field. The repulsion between electrons in H2O is condensed by a decreased bond angle [35, 36]. This is due to the lower covering of bond pairs and contraction of water molecules, while also improving water solubility by reducing the energy required to maintain stability and by packing more solute into the same quantity of water. Magnetized water has a pH of 7.63, whereas distilled water and tap water have a pH of 7.01 and 6.72. The pH of distilled water is significantly lower than magnetized water, indicating that magnetized water has an alkaline character. Table 2 lists the physical characteristics of water.Table 2
Physical properties of water.
Parameters (mg/lit)Tap waterMagnetic waterPermissible value as per code IS 3025pH value6.727.639Hardness538336500Total and dissolved solids700 and 500500 and 4001500Sulphate content8006901500Chloride content3431961500 to 2000


### 2.1.5. Mechanism of Magnetic Water

Magnetized water is water that has travelled through a magnetic flux. The magnetic properties of water are governed by its purity and the kind of magnetization [37]. After magnetism, the structure of water is coupled in a single channel, and the size of the molecule varies with the angle of bond changes, resulting in increased fluidity and contact area with the help of magnetism so that the hydration rate will rise [38]. After the magnetization, strong hydrogen bonds were established, which leads to improved viscosity, and the static magnetic field has also been studied. The alignment of water molecules at normal temperature is seen in Figure 2.Figure 2
Water molecules before magnetic treatment (source: Taghried Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid et al. [39]).Hydrogen-bonded water particles begin to form clumps despite the magnetic field's influence. The magnetic field cluster creation is shown in Figure3.Figure 3
Water molecules after magnetic treatment (source: Taghried Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid et al. (2017)).The evaluated compressive strength is 10% and 5% cement dosage savings. Increased features may be achieved [39, 40]. The physiochemical and thermal characteristics are greatly influenced by the molecular structure (Figure 4).Figure 4
Structure of water (Harsha Ramachandran, Sruthi Das K K (2018) [41]).The usage of magnetizing water ensures the enhancement of the mechanical characteristics of the concrete. Figure5 indicates that magnetization can only change the flow direction of the magnetized particles and not their energy [41]. Once water is subjected to magnetization, it is antimagnetized and repels the minerals and additives in the concrete matrix. This characteristic plays a crucial role in producing high-quality concrete with the capacity to resist deterioration [42].Figure 5
The trajectory of indicted particles movement before and after the magnetizing system (Harsha Ramachandran, Sruthi Das K K (2018) [41]).This methodology has been used to achieve the objectives of making concrete, magnetic water usage, and mechanical and durability aspects of concrete.M25concrete grade was used to produce conventional and magnetized water concrete to achieve that. The research framework work is illustrated in Figure 6.Figure 6
Framework of the research.


## 2.1.1. Cement

Cement is a crucial component in the making of concrete [29]. It is an adhesive included to make the building rigid and bind together sand and aggregate. In this research, ordinary Portland cement of grade 43 having a specific gravity of 3.15 is used, consistency is 31% and fineness modulus is 1%.


## 2.1.2. Fine Aggregate (M-Sand)

Aggregates are the major components of the concrete mix. Fine aggregates were utilised for M-Sand. Fine aggregate is generally crushed stones or natural river sand [30]. The specific gravity and void ratio are 2.64 and 1.84, respectively. After a sieve analysis, the M-Sand was classified as zone III. The percentage of water absorption M-sand was 1.2%. Table 1 presents the properties of fine aggregate. Figure 1(a) shows M-sand, and Figure 1(b) shows coarse aggregate.Table 1
M-Sand and coarse aggregate properties.
M-sandCoarse aggregatePropertiesValuesSpecific gravity2.642.74Bulking density1.81 g/ml1.47 g/mlFineness modulus2.834.30Void ratio1.891.22Surface moisture2.86%2.10%Figure 1
(a) M-sand; (b) coarse aggregates.
(a)(b)


## 2.1.3. Coarse Aggregate

Coarse aggregate is a component of aggregates used in the concrete mix. Many coarse aggregates are sand, gravel, crushed stones, slag, recycled concrete, and geosynthetic aggregates. Here, used coarse aggregate is locally available crushed granites aggregate of 20 mm conforming to IS383 [31, 32]. The specific gravity and void ratio for 20 mm are calculated to be 2.74 and 1.22 correspondingly. The percentage of water absorption of coarse aggregate was 0.86%. The coarse aggregate parameters are listed in Table 1.


## 2.1.4. Magnetic Water

Water that has been treated with a magnetic field but has not obtained magnetic strength is referred to as magnetized water. In general, a magnetic field modifies the characteristics of water and enhances the qualities of concrete [27]. The solubility of water particles that a magnetic field has broken down improves, but the bond angles of water molecules that the magnetic field decreases have broken down. Because of a couple of electrons that reject the magnetic moment of each other after having been subjected to a durable magnetic field, water magnetises in the inverse position of the magnetic field [33, 34]. As a result of decreased hydrogen bond formation, the external magnetic field separates specific orientations found in water molecules and larger water clusters into smaller clusters or standard water molecules.The bond pairs are redirected and squeezed closer together by the magnetic field. The repulsion between electrons in H2O is condensed by a decreased bond angle [35, 36]. This is due to the lower covering of bond pairs and contraction of water molecules, while also improving water solubility by reducing the energy required to maintain stability and by packing more solute into the same quantity of water. Magnetized water has a pH of 7.63, whereas distilled water and tap water have a pH of 7.01 and 6.72. The pH of distilled water is significantly lower than magnetized water, indicating that magnetized water has an alkaline character. Table 2 lists the physical characteristics of water.Table 2
Physical properties of water.
Parameters (mg/lit)Tap waterMagnetic waterPermissible value as per code IS 3025pH value6.727.639Hardness538336500Total and dissolved solids700 and 500500 and 4001500Sulphate content8006901500Chloride content3431961500 to 2000


## 2.1.5. Mechanism of Magnetic Water

Magnetized water is water that has travelled through a magnetic flux. The magnetic properties of water are governed by its purity and the kind of magnetization [37]. After magnetism, the structure of water is coupled in a single channel, and the size of the molecule varies with the angle of bond changes, resulting in increased fluidity and contact area with the help of magnetism so that the hydration rate will rise [38]. After the magnetization, strong hydrogen bonds were established, which leads to improved viscosity, and the static magnetic field has also been studied. The alignment of water molecules at normal temperature is seen in Figure 2.Figure 2
Water molecules before magnetic treatment (source: Taghried Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid et al. [39]).Hydrogen-bonded water particles begin to form clumps despite the magnetic field's influence. The magnetic field cluster creation is shown in Figure3.Figure 3
Water molecules after magnetic treatment (source: Taghried Isam Mohammed Abdel-Magid et al. (2017)).The evaluated compressive strength is 10% and 5% cement dosage savings. Increased features may be achieved [39, 40]. The physiochemical and thermal characteristics are greatly influenced by the molecular structure (Figure 4).Figure 4
Structure of water (Harsha Ramachandran, Sruthi Das K K (2018) [41]).The usage of magnetizing water ensures the enhancement of the mechanical characteristics of the concrete. Figure5 indicates that magnetization can only change the flow direction of the magnetized particles and not their energy [41]. Once water is subjected to magnetization, it is antimagnetized and repels the minerals and additives in the concrete matrix. This characteristic plays a crucial role in producing high-quality concrete with the capacity to resist deterioration [42].Figure 5
The trajectory of indicted particles movement before and after the magnetizing system (Harsha Ramachandran, Sruthi Das K K (2018) [41]).This methodology has been used to achieve the objectives of making concrete, magnetic water usage, and mechanical and durability aspects of concrete.M25concrete grade was used to produce conventional and magnetized water concrete to achieve that. The research framework work is illustrated in Figure 6.Figure 6
Framework of the research.


## 2.2. Mixing Proportions

The mix design was completed following IS 10262 : 2009 [43]. It is recommended that concrete of M25 grade has a mean strength of 31.60 N/mm2. The water-to-cement ratio is 0.40. The mixing proportions for one cubic metre of concrete are shown in Tables 3 and 4.Table 3
Concrete mixing proportion for 1 m3.
MaterialsCementM-sandCoarse aggregateWaterQuantity (kg/m3)492.5837.31092197Table 4
Mixing proportions for 1 m3.
Specific nameCement (kg/m3)M-sand (kg/m3)Coarse aggregate (kg/m3)Water (lit/m3)NMNC492.5837.31092197NMMC492.5837.31092197MMNC492.5837.31092197MMMC492.5837.31092197Compressive strength was found by 150 mm concrete cubes, tensile strength was determined using 150 × 300 mm cylindrical, and flexural strength was determined using a 100 × 100 × 500 mm prism. The samples are made and cured under the magnetized and potable water. Test and specimen details are shown in Table5. The experiment has four mixtures, which are labeled as follows:NMNC: the concrete is made with potable water and curing with potable water,NMMC: magnetized water is used to cure the concrete that has been prepared with potable water. MMNC: the concrete is made using magnetized water and then cured with potable water,MMMC: the concrete is made with magnetized water and curing with magnetized water.Table 5
Details of the test specimens.
Properties studiedSpecimen shapeProperties studiedSpecimen sizes in mmNumber of specimensConcrete strength related propertiesCubeCompressive strength150 × 150 × 15048CylinderSplit tensile strength150 × 30024PrismFlexural strength100 × 100 × 50024Durability studiesCubeWater absorption150 × 15012CubeAcid test150 × 15024CylinderRapid chloride permeability test100 × 5008CylinderWeight loss method60 × 15008Since the practice of magnetic water has been analyzed, the quantity of concrete constituents is not varied.


## 2.3. Test Methods

### 2.3.1. Workability of Fresh Concrete

Slump Cone Test. In order to assess whether or not the fresh concrete was workable, it was subjected to a slump cone test. The IS 1199–1959 slump cone test was conducted [44]. According to the test findings, the influence of magnetic water on concrete workability was identified. The slump values of the concrete including magnetic water were compared to the control concrete's slump value. The water-to-cement ratio was kept constant at 0.40. Figure 7(a) depicts the slump cone test of fresh concrete.Figure 7
(a) Slump cone test; (b) hardened concrete.
(a)(b)


### 2.3.2. Mechanical Properties of Hardened Concrete

Compressive Strength (IS: 516-1959). To categorise hardened concrete, one of the most important characteristics is compressive strength. On a 2000 KN Digital Compression Testing Machine according to IS: 516–1956 [45, 46], the compressive strength of the concrete was tested. A cube of 150 mm by 150 mm by 150 mm was used to evaluate concrete's compressive strength. A total of three specimens would need to be assessed 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after the cast was completed. Specimens were assigned their ultimate compressive strength based on the compressive strength of each of their mixes. The following was used to compute the maximum load at failure and the average compressive strength:(1)compressive strengthNmm2=ultimate load inNarea of cross sectionmm2.Split Tensile Strength (IS: 516-1959). Cylindrical moulds of 150 mm diameter and 300 mm height were utilised. Oil was applied to the inside surfaces of the mould to make it easier to remove the cylinder. Over its whole length, concrete was poured and compacted uniformly. It was determined that the concrete split tensile strength was 2000 kN, in line with IS: 516–1959 [45, 47]. On the concrete's widest splitting section, the tests were conducted. A pair of steel packing pieces was placed on the top and bottom faces of each block specimen in contact with the loading machine's plate before testing [37]. The load was gradually increased until the concrete was shattered into two halves. When measuring splitting tensile strength, mean failure loads were used. After 7 and 28 days, the specimens were examined to see if they had changed. After measuring the maximum load at failure, the average split tensile strength was calculated using the following equation:(2)split tensile strengthNmm2=2PπLD,where P denotes the ultimate load at failure (N), L denotes the length of the specimen (mm), and D is the diameter of the cylindrical specimen (mm).Flexural Strength (IS: 516-1959). A prism with dimensions of 100 mm × 100 mm × 500 mm was cast and tested in a 1000 kN Universal Testing Machine under two-point loading [45, 48]. The maximum stress critical may occur at any point in the middle third of the prism's length with the rate of loading 1.4 kN/min in the two-point loading. In order to compute flexural strength from the failure load, the specimens' failure loads were recorded. The specimens were also investigated 7 and 28 days after casting. As a consequence, the average flexural strength was calculated using equation (3) and the ultimate load at failure measurement:(3)flexural strengthNmm2=3FL2bd2,where F is the load at the fracture point, L is the length of the support span in millimetres, b is the width in millimetres, and d is the thickness in millimetres (mm).


### 2.3.3. Durability Properties of Hardened Concrete

Water Absorption. When steel reinforcement corrodes, water absorption is a critical factor that affects the structural integrity and long-term performance of the structure [49]. Oven-dried 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm cubes were tested for 72 hours at 105°C. As a result, the dry weight was determined, and the dried samples were cooled to room temperature and weighed. For a period of 24 hours, the dried sample was submerged in water. The weight of the concrete cubes was recorded after 24 hours.Acid Attack. In the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), there is no standard entirely dedicated to testing the durability of concrete mixtures to the ASTM C267. A standard test technique for mortars, grouts, and polymer concrete was utilised as the basis for this test [50, 51]. The concrete cubes were immersed in a 3% sulphuric acid solution for 14 and 28 days. In 20 litres of distilled water, 3% of sulphuric acid 1 N was added to make the acid solution. After 14 and 28 days from the date of immersion, observations were conducted [52]. When the concrete cubes were removed from the acid curing process after 14 or 28 days, they were cleaned and kept for 24 hours at room temperature.Rapid Chloride Permeability. Corrosion mostly induced by chloride ion infiltration, which decreases reinforcement passivity. To estimate the electrical conductivity of corrosion, a six-hour chloride penetration test was performed according to ASTM- C1202 [53]. For concrete samples, the resistance of concrete samples to chloride ion penetration (RCPT) specification specifies how well concrete samples resist the infiltration of chloride ions [48]. The frequency of the current flowing over concrete was measured with an RCPT apparatus. The entire charge passed has been calculated in units of coulombs. Based on the charge transferred, the chloride permeability is shown in Table 6 (ASTM-C1202). The data logger collects the reading with its starting readings at each record time. After the last reading, the system stops at the end of the log. The following equation measures the average flow rate across a single cell:(4)Q=900×I0+2I30+2I60+2I90+2I120+2I150+2I210+2I240+2I270+2I300+2I300+I360,where Q is the current passing over a cell (Coulombs), I0 is the current initial measurement of mA, and I30,I60,I90,I120,I150,I210,I240,I270,I300,I330, and I360 denote the current reading taken at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 210, 240, 270, 300, 330, and 360 minutes in mA.Table 6
Chloride permeability base on charge transmitted (ASTM-C1202).
Coulombs (charge passed)Chloride permeability>4000High2000 to 4000Moderate1000 to 2000Low100 to 1000Very low<100Negligible


## 2.3.1. Workability of Fresh Concrete

Slump Cone Test. In order to assess whether or not the fresh concrete was workable, it was subjected to a slump cone test. The IS 1199–1959 slump cone test was conducted [44]. According to the test findings, the influence of magnetic water on concrete workability was identified. The slump values of the concrete including magnetic water were compared to the control concrete's slump value. The water-to-cement ratio was kept constant at 0.40. Figure 7(a) depicts the slump cone test of fresh concrete.Figure 7
(a) Slump cone test; (b) hardened concrete.
(a)(b)


## 2.3.2. Mechanical Properties of Hardened Concrete

Compressive Strength (IS: 516-1959). To categorise hardened concrete, one of the most important characteristics is compressive strength. On a 2000 KN Digital Compression Testing Machine according to IS: 516–1956 [45, 46], the compressive strength of the concrete was tested. A cube of 150 mm by 150 mm by 150 mm was used to evaluate concrete's compressive strength. A total of three specimens would need to be assessed 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after the cast was completed. Specimens were assigned their ultimate compressive strength based on the compressive strength of each of their mixes. The following was used to compute the maximum load at failure and the average compressive strength:(1)compressive strengthNmm2=ultimate load inNarea of cross sectionmm2.Split Tensile Strength (IS: 516-1959). Cylindrical moulds of 150 mm diameter and 300 mm height were utilised. Oil was applied to the inside surfaces of the mould to make it easier to remove the cylinder. Over its whole length, concrete was poured and compacted uniformly. It was determined that the concrete split tensile strength was 2000 kN, in line with IS: 516–1959 [45, 47]. On the concrete's widest splitting section, the tests were conducted. A pair of steel packing pieces was placed on the top and bottom faces of each block specimen in contact with the loading machine's plate before testing [37]. The load was gradually increased until the concrete was shattered into two halves. When measuring splitting tensile strength, mean failure loads were used. After 7 and 28 days, the specimens were examined to see if they had changed. After measuring the maximum load at failure, the average split tensile strength was calculated using the following equation:(2)split tensile strengthNmm2=2PπLD,where P denotes the ultimate load at failure (N), L denotes the length of the specimen (mm), and D is the diameter of the cylindrical specimen (mm).Flexural Strength (IS: 516-1959). A prism with dimensions of 100 mm × 100 mm × 500 mm was cast and tested in a 1000 kN Universal Testing Machine under two-point loading [45, 48]. The maximum stress critical may occur at any point in the middle third of the prism's length with the rate of loading 1.4 kN/min in the two-point loading. In order to compute flexural strength from the failure load, the specimens' failure loads were recorded. The specimens were also investigated 7 and 28 days after casting. As a consequence, the average flexural strength was calculated using equation (3) and the ultimate load at failure measurement:(3)flexural strengthNmm2=3FL2bd2,where F is the load at the fracture point, L is the length of the support span in millimetres, b is the width in millimetres, and d is the thickness in millimetres (mm).


## 2.3.3. Durability Properties of Hardened Concrete

Water Absorption. When steel reinforcement corrodes, water absorption is a critical factor that affects the structural integrity and long-term performance of the structure [49]. Oven-dried 150 mm × 150 mm × 150 mm cubes were tested for 72 hours at 105°C. As a result, the dry weight was determined, and the dried samples were cooled to room temperature and weighed. For a period of 24 hours, the dried sample was submerged in water. The weight of the concrete cubes was recorded after 24 hours.Acid Attack. In the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), there is no standard entirely dedicated to testing the durability of concrete mixtures to the ASTM C267. A standard test technique for mortars, grouts, and polymer concrete was utilised as the basis for this test [50, 51]. The concrete cubes were immersed in a 3% sulphuric acid solution for 14 and 28 days. In 20 litres of distilled water, 3% of sulphuric acid 1 N was added to make the acid solution. After 14 and 28 days from the date of immersion, observations were conducted [52]. When the concrete cubes were removed from the acid curing process after 14 or 28 days, they were cleaned and kept for 24 hours at room temperature.Rapid Chloride Permeability. Corrosion mostly induced by chloride ion infiltration, which decreases reinforcement passivity. To estimate the electrical conductivity of corrosion, a six-hour chloride penetration test was performed according to ASTM- C1202 [53]. For concrete samples, the resistance of concrete samples to chloride ion penetration (RCPT) specification specifies how well concrete samples resist the infiltration of chloride ions [48]. The frequency of the current flowing over concrete was measured with an RCPT apparatus. The entire charge passed has been calculated in units of coulombs. Based on the charge transferred, the chloride permeability is shown in Table 6 (ASTM-C1202). The data logger collects the reading with its starting readings at each record time. After the last reading, the system stops at the end of the log. The following equation measures the average flow rate across a single cell:(4)Q=900×I0+2I30+2I60+2I90+2I120+2I150+2I210+2I240+2I270+2I300+2I300+I360,where Q is the current passing over a cell (Coulombs), I0 is the current initial measurement of mA, and I30,I60,I90,I120,I150,I210,I240,I270,I300,I330, and I360 denote the current reading taken at 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 210, 240, 270, 300, 330, and 360 minutes in mA.Table 6
Chloride permeability base on charge transmitted (ASTM-C1202).
Coulombs (charge passed)Chloride permeability>4000High2000 to 4000Moderate1000 to 2000Low100 to 1000Very low<100Negligible


## 3. Steel Corrosion

To eliminate the rust, a steel rod with a diameter of 12 mm and height of 150 mm is submerged in a pickling solution (equal parts hydrochloric acid and water). At the end of the polarisation test, the rod’s starting weight (W1) was determined, the cylinder specimen was split, and weight loss rods were collected [48, 52]. The rod was cleaned with water and then air-dried before being weighed (W2). The corrosion rate was computed using the starting and final weights. The following equation is used to determine corrosion rate:(5)rate of corrosion in mmpy=87.6W1−W2DAT,where W1 is the weight of the start (mg), the last weight is W2 (mg), the density of steel is D (gm/cm3), A is the specimen area (cm2), and T is the period of testing (hours).


### 3.1. Microstructure of Hardened Concrete

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the micromorphology of different concretes, and the microstructure of different concretes with potable water and magnetic water can be characterised by SEM spectra, allowing the influence mechanism of magnetic water concrete to be analyzed eventually.


## 3.1. Microstructure of Hardened Concrete

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the micromorphology of different concretes, and the microstructure of different concretes with potable water and magnetic water can be characterised by SEM spectra, allowing the influence mechanism of magnetic water concrete to be analyzed eventually.


## 4. Results and Discussion

### 4.1. Slump of Concrete

The fresh state properties of concrete were calculated, and the obtained values were compared with the standards specified in the I.S. code. Slump cone measurements were made for conventional and magnetized concrete mixes. Table7 shows the slump values for conventional and magnetic concrete mixtures.Table 7
Slump values and workability of concrete.
MixSlump value (mm)WorkabilityConventional concrete53Medium workableMagnetized water concrete76Highly workableAfter testing, it was found that the slump value of the magnetized water concrete exceeds that of conventional concrete. Table7 shows that the magnetic water integrated concrete is more functional than the conventional concrete. The increased slump value might be attributed to magnetic water’s reduced surface tension, which tends to reduce viscosity and increase the surface area of the mix.


### 4.2. Mechanical Properties

#### 4.2.1. Compressive Strength Test

Compressive strength testing was performed for concrete samples cured for 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. This experiment is carried out following I.S.: 516–1959 [45].Figure8 shows a graphical depiction of the results. Compressive strength vs. time in days is plotted on the graph. According to the results, the mix containing magnetized water used for mixing and curing indicated a considerable improvement in compressive strength. The magnetized water concrete’s increased strength is due to increased cement hydration [7]. The increase in hydration causes the pores in the concrete to fill up. At 28 days, adding magnetic water to the mix MMMC enhanced the compressive strength by 14.86% compared with NMNC. For various curing ages, Figure 8 illustrates the fluctuation in the compressive strength of mixes NMNC, NMMC, MMNC, and MMNC.Figure 8
Comparison of the compressive strength of different mixtures.


## 4.1. Slump of Concrete

The fresh state properties of concrete were calculated, and the obtained values were compared with the standards specified in the I.S. code. Slump cone measurements were made for conventional and magnetized concrete mixes. Table7 shows the slump values for conventional and magnetic concrete mixtures.Table 7
Slump values and workability of concrete.
MixSlump value (mm)WorkabilityConventional concrete53Medium workableMagnetized water concrete76Highly workableAfter testing, it was found that the slump value of the magnetized water concrete exceeds that of conventional concrete. Table7 shows that the magnetic water integrated concrete is more functional than the conventional concrete. The increased slump value might be attributed to magnetic water’s reduced surface tension, which tends to reduce viscosity and increase the surface area of the mix.


## 4.2. Mechanical Properties

### 4.2.1. Compressive Strength Test

Compressive strength testing was performed for concrete samples cured for 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. This experiment is carried out following I.S.: 516–1959 [45].Figure8 shows a graphical depiction of the results. Compressive strength vs. time in days is plotted on the graph. According to the results, the mix containing magnetized water used for mixing and curing indicated a considerable improvement in compressive strength. The magnetized water concrete’s increased strength is due to increased cement hydration [7]. The increase in hydration causes the pores in the concrete to fill up. At 28 days, adding magnetic water to the mix MMMC enhanced the compressive strength by 14.86% compared with NMNC. For various curing ages, Figure 8 illustrates the fluctuation in the compressive strength of mixes NMNC, NMMC, MMNC, and MMNC.Figure 8
Comparison of the compressive strength of different mixtures.


## 4.2.1. Compressive Strength Test

Compressive strength testing was performed for concrete samples cured for 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. This experiment is carried out following I.S.: 516–1959 [45].Figure8 shows a graphical depiction of the results. Compressive strength vs. time in days is plotted on the graph. According to the results, the mix containing magnetized water used for mixing and curing indicated a considerable improvement in compressive strength. The magnetized water concrete’s increased strength is due to increased cement hydration [7]. The increase in hydration causes the pores in the concrete to fill up. At 28 days, adding magnetic water to the mix MMMC enhanced the compressive strength by 14.86% compared with NMNC. For various curing ages, Figure 8 illustrates the fluctuation in the compressive strength of mixes NMNC, NMMC, MMNC, and MMNC.Figure 8
Comparison of the compressive strength of different mixtures.


## 5. Split Tensile Strength Test

Magnetic water-infused concrete samples were evaluated after 7 and 28 days of curing to determine their tensile strength [45].Figure9 displays the split tensile strength values in visual form. They can support the possible impacts of magnetic induction on the split tensile strength values of concrete, with greater values obtained with increasing magnetic induction. At 28 days, the magnetic water raised the split tensile strength of the MMMC mix by 14.32% more than the NMNC. The presence of magnetic water may contribute to an upsurge in split tensile strength through promoting uniform dispersion of the hydrated products and reducing the development of microcracks in concrete.Figure 9
Comparison of the split tensile strength of different mixtures.


### 5.1. Flexural Strength Test

The flexural strength test results show that the specimen with magnetized water utilised during mixing and curing had a more superior flexural strength than the conventional concrete specimens [47, 48].The maximum strength achieved after 28 days is 4.68 MPa. Blend MMMC had the highest flexural strength of all the other mixtures. At 28 days, the expansion of magnetic water improved the flexural strength of the cement concrete mix MMMC by 14.02% compared with NMNC. The consolidation of water with a consistent magnetic field can offer assistance to improve the concrete flexural strength. The presence of magnetic water in the concrete matrix produces significant hydration and helps upsurge the flexural strength of the concrete specimens. In concrete specimens that have been cured in a magnetic field, for example, the hydration material tends to align itself with the magnetic field, increasing the flexural strength of the concrete samples [23]. The flexural strength variation in NMNC, NMMC, MMNC, and MMMC mixes at different curing ages is shown in Figure 10.Figure 10
Comparison of the flexural strength of different mixtures.


### 5.2. Durability Properties

#### 5.2.1. Influence of Magnetized Water on the Durability of Concrete

To confirm the durability properties of magnetized water concrete, tests for water absorption, acid resistance, rapid chloride penetration, and gravimetric weight loss were conducted, and the results are given as follows.Water Absorption Test on Concrete. Water absorption is a critical component that influences the corrosion resistance of concrete. One hundred and fifty mm cubical concrete specimens were oven-dried for 72 hours at 105°C. The dried specimens were cooled to room temperature before being weighed dry. After that, the specimens were submerged for 24 hours in water. The water absorption of the magnetized water and conventional tap water mixtures was measured after 24 hours.According to BS 1881-Part 5, a good quality concrete should absorb less than 3% of water if it is subjected to immersion. Magnetized water added concrete had a lower water absorption rate than tap water. Specimens of mix MMMC, MMNC, and NMNC displayed lower water absorption by 0.16%, 0.12%, and 0.05%, correspondingly, when associated with the specimens of mix NMNC. According to the test results, after the three days of saturation, the capillary rise of water seemed to have ceased. Hence, concerning water absorption, the concrete with magnetized water added has superior water repellent properties than the control concrete. The percent of water absorption is shown in Figure11 for various combinations.Figure 11
Water absorption % of concrete specimens of various mixes.Acid Attack on Magnetic Water Concrete. The compressive strength of the concrete conducted after acid exposure (sulfuric acid) with magnetic field water. The reduction in compressive strength due to acid attack has been calculated for mixes MMMC, MMNC, NMNC, and NMMC. After 14 and 28 days, acid curing samples produced with magnetic water obtained greater compressive strength, especially the compressive strength of MMMC. After the 14 and 28 days of acid curing, it is found that the compressive strength was reduced to 2.12% and 2.03%, respectively. The compressive strength variation in NMNC, NMMC, MMNC and MMNC mixes at different acid curing ages is shown in Figure 12. Greater compressive strength attainment after acid attack fortifies the compressive strength increment of the mix of MMMC.Figure 12
Comparison of compressive strength loss after acid attack.Corrosion Resistance of Magnetic Water Concrete (ASTM-C1202). Figure 13 represents the chloride diffusion results for the optimum concrete mix. At 28 days, the RCPT value for NMNC was determined to be 2568.70 coulombs. The optimum MMMC mix gives a lower coulomb value than the NMNC mix, according to test results. The magnetic water prevents chlorides from entering the concrete pores by forming complex compounds that plug the holes, reducing the risk of corrosion.Figure 13
Average values of rapid chloride permeability test.Gravimetric Weight-Loss Method. Figure 14 depicts the corrosion rates of several mixtures. The assessment of corrosion resistance using weight-loss measures reveals that such corrosion rate is observed to be reduced in mixes containing magnetic water.Figure 14
Comparison of rate of corrosion of various mixes.


### 5.3. Microstructure of Control and Magnetic Water Imbibed Concrete

Morphology of monosulfate hydrate, C–S–H gel, and ettringite in the cement mantel of magnetized water incorporated concrete found analogous to those mixed with potable water [26, 37]. In contrast, calcium hydrate crystals containing unique hexagonal plates have been seen in pastes made using tap water [34, 54]. Molecules present in potable water tend to conglomerate the particles and form clusters. Production of larger C. H. plates may be due to the reaction of cement with the formed clusters.Figure15 displays a micrograph of C. H. crystals created in concrete using tap water, whereas Figure 16 shows a micrograph of C. H. crystals prepared in magnetic water. This occurs as a result of smaller water molecules in magnetic water reacting with cement. This might explain why the mechanical characteristics of concrete mixed with magnetic water are better than those of concrete mixed with tap water.Figure 15
SEM micrograph of Ca(OH)2 crystals in tap water concrete.Figure 16
SEM micrograph of Ca(OH)2 crystals in magnetic water concrete.


## 5.1. Flexural Strength Test

The flexural strength test results show that the specimen with magnetized water utilised during mixing and curing had a more superior flexural strength than the conventional concrete specimens [47, 48].The maximum strength achieved after 28 days is 4.68 MPa. Blend MMMC had the highest flexural strength of all the other mixtures. At 28 days, the expansion of magnetic water improved the flexural strength of the cement concrete mix MMMC by 14.02% compared with NMNC. The consolidation of water with a consistent magnetic field can offer assistance to improve the concrete flexural strength. The presence of magnetic water in the concrete matrix produces significant hydration and helps upsurge the flexural strength of the concrete specimens. In concrete specimens that have been cured in a magnetic field, for example, the hydration material tends to align itself with the magnetic field, increasing the flexural strength of the concrete samples [23]. The flexural strength variation in NMNC, NMMC, MMNC, and MMMC mixes at different curing ages is shown in Figure 10.Figure 10
Comparison of the flexural strength of different mixtures.


## 5.2. Durability Properties

### 5.2.1. Influence of Magnetized Water on the Durability of Concrete

To confirm the durability properties of magnetized water concrete, tests for water absorption, acid resistance, rapid chloride penetration, and gravimetric weight loss were conducted, and the results are given as follows.Water Absorption Test on Concrete. Water absorption is a critical component that influences the corrosion resistance of concrete. One hundred and fifty mm cubical concrete specimens were oven-dried for 72 hours at 105°C. The dried specimens were cooled to room temperature before being weighed dry. After that, the specimens were submerged for 24 hours in water. The water absorption of the magnetized water and conventional tap water mixtures was measured after 24 hours.According to BS 1881-Part 5, a good quality concrete should absorb less than 3% of water if it is subjected to immersion. Magnetized water added concrete had a lower water absorption rate than tap water. Specimens of mix MMMC, MMNC, and NMNC displayed lower water absorption by 0.16%, 0.12%, and 0.05%, correspondingly, when associated with the specimens of mix NMNC. According to the test results, after the three days of saturation, the capillary rise of water seemed to have ceased. Hence, concerning water absorption, the concrete with magnetized water added has superior water repellent properties than the control concrete. The percent of water absorption is shown in Figure11 for various combinations.Figure 11
Water absorption % of concrete specimens of various mixes.Acid Attack on Magnetic Water Concrete. The compressive strength of the concrete conducted after acid exposure (sulfuric acid) with magnetic field water. The reduction in compressive strength due to acid attack has been calculated for mixes MMMC, MMNC, NMNC, and NMMC. After 14 and 28 days, acid curing samples produced with magnetic water obtained greater compressive strength, especially the compressive strength of MMMC. After the 14 and 28 days of acid curing, it is found that the compressive strength was reduced to 2.12% and 2.03%, respectively. The compressive strength variation in NMNC, NMMC, MMNC and MMNC mixes at different acid curing ages is shown in Figure 12. Greater compressive strength attainment after acid attack fortifies the compressive strength increment of the mix of MMMC.Figure 12
Comparison of compressive strength loss after acid attack.Corrosion Resistance of Magnetic Water Concrete (ASTM-C1202). Figure 13 represents the chloride diffusion results for the optimum concrete mix. At 28 days, the RCPT value for NMNC was determined to be 2568.70 coulombs. The optimum MMMC mix gives a lower coulomb value than the NMNC mix, according to test results. The magnetic water prevents chlorides from entering the concrete pores by forming complex compounds that plug the holes, reducing the risk of corrosion.Figure 13
Average values of rapid chloride permeability test.Gravimetric Weight-Loss Method. Figure 14 depicts the corrosion rates of several mixtures. The assessment of corrosion resistance using weight-loss measures reveals that such corrosion rate is observed to be reduced in mixes containing magnetic water.Figure 14
Comparison of rate of corrosion of various mixes.


## 5.2.1. Influence of Magnetized Water on the Durability of Concrete

To confirm the durability properties of magnetized water concrete, tests for water absorption, acid resistance, rapid chloride penetration, and gravimetric weight loss were conducted, and the results are given as follows.Water Absorption Test on Concrete. Water absorption is a critical component that influences the corrosion resistance of concrete. One hundred and fifty mm cubical concrete specimens were oven-dried for 72 hours at 105°C. The dried specimens were cooled to room temperature before being weighed dry. After that, the specimens were submerged for 24 hours in water. The water absorption of the magnetized water and conventional tap water mixtures was measured after 24 hours.According to BS 1881-Part 5, a good quality concrete should absorb less than 3% of water if it is subjected to immersion. Magnetized water added concrete had a lower water absorption rate than tap water. Specimens of mix MMMC, MMNC, and NMNC displayed lower water absorption by 0.16%, 0.12%, and 0.05%, correspondingly, when associated with the specimens of mix NMNC. According to the test results, after the three days of saturation, the capillary rise of water seemed to have ceased. Hence, concerning water absorption, the concrete with magnetized water added has superior water repellent properties than the control concrete. The percent of water absorption is shown in Figure11 for various combinations.Figure 11
Water absorption % of concrete specimens of various mixes.Acid Attack on Magnetic Water Concrete. The compressive strength of the concrete conducted after acid exposure (sulfuric acid) with magnetic field water. The reduction in compressive strength due to acid attack has been calculated for mixes MMMC, MMNC, NMNC, and NMMC. After 14 and 28 days, acid curing samples produced with magnetic water obtained greater compressive strength, especially the compressive strength of MMMC. After the 14 and 28 days of acid curing, it is found that the compressive strength was reduced to 2.12% and 2.03%, respectively. The compressive strength variation in NMNC, NMMC, MMNC and MMNC mixes at different acid curing ages is shown in Figure 12. Greater compressive strength attainment after acid attack fortifies the compressive strength increment of the mix of MMMC.Figure 12
Comparison of compressive strength loss after acid attack.Corrosion Resistance of Magnetic Water Concrete (ASTM-C1202). Figure 13 represents the chloride diffusion results for the optimum concrete mix. At 28 days, the RCPT value for NMNC was determined to be 2568.70 coulombs. The optimum MMMC mix gives a lower coulomb value than the NMNC mix, according to test results. The magnetic water prevents chlorides from entering the concrete pores by forming complex compounds that plug the holes, reducing the risk of corrosion.Figure 13
Average values of rapid chloride permeability test.Gravimetric Weight-Loss Method. Figure 14 depicts the corrosion rates of several mixtures. The assessment of corrosion resistance using weight-loss measures reveals that such corrosion rate is observed to be reduced in mixes containing magnetic water.Figure 14
Comparison of rate of corrosion of various mixes.


## 5.3. Microstructure of Control and Magnetic Water Imbibed Concrete

Morphology of monosulfate hydrate, C–S–H gel, and ettringite in the cement mantel of magnetized water incorporated concrete found analogous to those mixed with potable water [26, 37]. In contrast, calcium hydrate crystals containing unique hexagonal plates have been seen in pastes made using tap water [34, 54]. Molecules present in potable water tend to conglomerate the particles and form clusters. Production of larger C. H. plates may be due to the reaction of cement with the formed clusters.Figure15 displays a micrograph of C. H. crystals created in concrete using tap water, whereas Figure 16 shows a micrograph of C. H. crystals prepared in magnetic water. This occurs as a result of smaller water molecules in magnetic water reacting with cement. This might explain why the mechanical characteristics of concrete mixed with magnetic water are better than those of concrete mixed with tap water.Figure 15
SEM micrograph of Ca(OH)2 crystals in tap water concrete.Figure 16
SEM micrograph of Ca(OH)2 crystals in magnetic water concrete.


## 6. Conclusion

The following conclusions are reached based on the findings of mechanical properties and durability investigations of hydromagnetic concrete:(1)
Regarding the mechanical properties’ of concrete containing magnetic water, for the mix MMMC, an enhancement of 14.86% was registered for the compressive strength at different curing days.(2)
As part of the tensile strength and flexural strength evaluation, concrete samples from MMMC increased to 14.32% and 14.02%, respectively, at different curing days.(3)
Concrete samples containing magnetized water are more resistant to water absorption and acid attack than the control concrete. In various mixes, MMMC has shown water absorption and acid resistance.(4)
Usage of magnetized water in instead of tap water allowed around 50% reduction in the water content without detrimental to the workability of the mix.(5)
The findings of the corrosion resistivity tests confirmed that mixtures including magnetized water are more resistant to chloride intrusion than the control mix. The resistance to chloride intrusion is greater in mix MMMC.(6)
The incorporation of magnetized water had a favorable result in reducing compressive strength loss due to acid attack; mix MMMC obtained higher resistance against acid attack.(7)
The results demonstrate that as the curing duration is increased, the compressive, tensile, and flexural strengths of all the combinations improve. The pace of growth changes depending on the mix.(8)
Concrete mix prepared using magnetized water and subjected to magnetized water curing (MMMC) exhibits greater mechanical and durability properties with an efficient degree of hydration at different curing ages.



---

*Source: 2821419-2021-10-12.xml*