Several products are commonly used as scale and corrosion inhibitors in water treatment. Some of these include:
- Polyphosphates: Polyphosphates, such as sodium hexametaphosphate (SHMP) and tetrasodium pyrophosphate (TSPP), are widely used as scale inhibitors in water treatment. They work by sequestering metal ions and forming complexes that prevent the precipitation of scale deposits.
- Phosphonates: Phosphonates, such as HEDP (Hydroxyethylidene Diphosphonic Acid), ATMP (Amino Trimethylene Phosphonic Acid), and PBTC (Phosphonobutane Tricarboxylic Acid), are effective scale and corrosion inhibitors. They inhibit scale formation by chelating metal ions and preventing crystal growth. Additionally, they form a protective film on metal surfaces, reducing corrosion rates.
- Polymers: Various polymer-based scale inhibitors, such as polyacrylic acid (PAA) and polyacrylate copolymers, are used in water treatment. These polymers inhibit scale formation by dispersing and sequestering mineral particles, preventing them from attaching to surfaces and forming deposits.
- Silicates: Sodium silicate is often used as a corrosion inhibitor due to its ability to form a protective layer on metal surfaces. It acts as a passivating agent, preventing corrosion of metals like steel and iron.
- Zinc salts: Zinc salts, such as zinc orthophosphate, are commonly employed as corrosion inhibitors in water treatment. They form a protective coating on metal surfaces, reducing corrosion rates.
- Benzotriazole (BTA): BTA is an organic compound used as a corrosion inhibitor in various water systems. It forms a protective film on metal surfaces, preventing corrosion caused by metal ions or oxygen.
These are just a few examples of the many different scale and corrosion inhibitors used in water treatment. The selection of specific agents depends on the type of water system, the nature of the scaling or corrosion problem, and other factors specific to the application.