Hydrogen-rich balls (also known as ORP balls, negative potential metal columns, magnesium balls, or water-hydrogen balls) are functional ceramic/mineral media made from natural ores through purification, smelting, calcination, and polishing. They serve multiple roles when placed in water filters, cups, kettles, or pipeline systems.
Through micro-electrolysis, the ball splits water molecules, producing hydrogen ions that combine into dissolved H₂ gas.
The balls dramatically lower the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of water:
The micro-electrolysis process breaks hydrogen bonds and releases OH⁻ ions:
Large water clusters (10+ molecules) are broken down into smaller clusters of 5–6 molecules:
The balls slowly release beneficial metal ions including calcium, magnesium, silicon, germanium, and other trace elements as the water passes through.
The alkaline, reducing environment suppresses reproduction of bacteria and algae, making it suitable for aquaculture, large aquariums, and swimming pools.
| Parameter | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| ORP | +450~+550 mV | −150~−700 mV |
| pH | 6.5–7.0 | 7.3–8.5 |
| Dissolved H₂ | ~0.051 ppm | 0.4–2 ppm |
| Surface tension | 73 dyn/cm | 64 dyn/cm |
| Water cluster size | 10+ molecules | 5–6 molecules |
| Application | Dosage | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Water purifier (T33 filter) | 150–200 g | ~6 months / 3–5 tons |
| Cup / Kettle | 100–150 g | 2–3 months / 150–200 L |
| Foot bath / Bathing | 100–150 g | Per use |
| Industrial water treatment | 1 kg per 10–15 tons | Varies |
Hydrogen-rich balls are essentially multifunctional water conditioners. Their dominant role is producing dissolved hydrogen + negative ORP water, while simultaneously alkalizing, mineralizing, and restructuring water into smaller clusters. They are most widely used in household water purifiers, hydrogen-rich cups, and functional bathing — not as a primary contaminant removal filter, but as a water quality enhancer with antioxidant and mineral-supplementing properties.