"Water has a cluster structure, formed by individual water molecules, which are linked by hydrogen bridges to each other," explains Raymond Lescrauwaet. He represents the Swiss manufacturer Planet Horizons Technologies in the Netherlands. "Primal water has a small cluster structure, making the water and the nutrients better absorbed by the roots. Certain minerals, as well as a vortex water flow, can have an impact on the water structure,. With modern technology, we are currently trying to minimise the cluster structure."
Larger clusters have larger interstices, in which crystallisation of minerals takes place more easily. The absorption of water and minerals by the roots is thus more difficult. By creating 'tennis balls' in the water, the space in between becomes smaller. This makes it possible for the plant to absorb nutrients in an easier manner. So how do you make the clusters smaller?
Electromagnetic field
The origin of the Aqua-4D technology lies in the concrete industry. With vitalised water, concrete becomes stronger and more flexible. "By means of quantum mechanics it has been discovered that you need to have certain frequencies in the water," says the Benelux agent.
A control box gives certain electrical signals to the two DC coils, which sit in a hollow tube. This creates an electromagnetic field, which the water flows through. A fluidising switch sends the water to the outside of the tube.
Lescrauwaet: "Water is just like other materials: sensitive to certain vibrations. The emitted vibrations, between 5,000 and 10,000 Hertz (Hz), resonate in the water, ensuring the reduction of clusters."
Cleaner filter
The reduction of the clusters prevents the crystallisation of fertilisers and other substances in the water. According to Lescrauwaet, this therefore also increases the filtering capacity. "As a result of the water treatment, the filter remains cleaner due to the lower adhesion of materials."
Before installing an Aqua4D system, the surroundings should be checked by an EMV specialist to keep electromagnetic fields under control. These come from pylons, transformer houses, ground cables and masts, as well as electrical installations, appliances and wireless devices. "The functioning of the system can be affected by strong external electro-magnetic fields and waves," said Lescrauwaet.
Proven benefits
The limescale which normally attaches to appliances, pipes and drippers is largely eliminated and prevented. "Growers making use of this water can cultivate crops with a higher EC-value. There have been many practical cases in which irrigation with an EC value of 12 or higher has led to good results. Normally, the crop would not be able to take it, but the treated water makes it possible," said Lescrauwaet.
Commissioned by the Swiss manufacturer last year, a study for the Aqua-4D system was conducted at Westland Demo Nursery. Containers were used with different EC values: 0.2, 3.0 and 9.0. The water with nutrients was administered to cress grown on rockwool. Plants of each EC value were irrigated with both treated and non-treated water. Every week, several performance measurements were made to determine the effect of the water treatment. On the basis of the results, it was concluded that more could be achieved with treated water. This effect was particularly noticeable in the plants irrigated with an EC of 9.0.
Removal biofilm and nematodes
The Aqua-4D reduces the biofilm, a breeding ground for bacteria, but does not eliminate it completely. By rinsing off the water in a basin, the old bacteria can be eliminated by filtering or replacing a part of the water. Lescrauwaet: "It is known that nematodes hardly go to the roots anymore when using vitalised water. This leads to a significant improvement in the plant roots, which are not affected by nematodes."
According to the agent, the crop yield increases. When growing on soil, and depending on the crop type, this increase can be of 5 to 25%. As for substrate cultivation, there are currently still no yield data available. The manufacturer is keen to offer trials on different crops on a no win no fee basis. Interested growers can contact Lescrauwaet ([email protected] or [email protected]).