Enhancing stirring performance through chaotic position control in a magnetic stirrer

Abstract

This study aims to develop an innovative chaotic magnetic stirrer system to enhance mixture homogeneity and dissolution efficiency. Unlike conventional magnetic stirrers, the proposed system continuously alters the position of the magnetic stir bar based on the Halvorsen, Lorenz, and Sprott-A chaotic equations. This approach prevents the mixture from being confined to a specific region and ensures broader dispersion throughout the solution, thereby achieving a faster homogeneous mixture. The developed chaotic magnetic stirrer was evaluated in the experimental studies compared to a conventional magnetic stirrer. Dissolution efficiency, conductivity, and pH variations were measured, and it was observed that the system operating with the Halvorsen chaotic model achieved the highest dissolution efficiency. In short-term experiments, the Halvorsen model demonstrated an 11.99% improvement in conductivity compared to the conventional method, while the Sprott-A model exhibited a 4.21% enhancement. Specifically in long-term mixing assessments, all chaotic models reached solution saturation significantly earlier than the conventional stirring method. The Halvorsen model achieved saturation at the 150th minute, followed by the Sprott-A model at the 160th minute and the Lorenz model at the 175th minute, whereas the conventional method only reached saturation at approximately the 215th minute. This substantial reduction in time to saturation across all chaotic configurations highlights the effectiveness of chaotic stirring in enhancing mass transfer rates and accelerating solution homogenization. Similarly, pH measurements indicated that chaotic mixing methods, particularly the Halvorsen model, accelerated the dissolution process and facilitated faster attainment of chemical equilibrium. The findings reveal that chaotic magnetic stirrer systems provide more effective mixing and optimize the dissolution process than conventional methods. This study integrates chaos theory, a mathematical phenomenon, into engineering and mixing technologies.