Role of flow velocity on the scaling behaviour

Abstract

The efficacy of antiscaling treatments under simulated flow conditions was studied by chronoamperometric technique. The effect of temperature and concentration on the scale forming behaviour of different compounds were also studied under the simulated flow conditions. In order to simulate the flow conditions a rotating disc electrode technique was employed. The mechanism of antiscaling behaviour of different chemicals was studied through electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. It was found that the flow velocity affected the efficiency of antiscalants. Polymer based compounds follow the growth modification adsorption mechanism, while compounds like EDTA and phosphonate follow nucleation modification absorption/chemisorption mechanism. Temperature and concentration of the scale forming compounds have a significant role in the scaling process, particularly at the low concentrations.