ATMP is a phosphonate-based scale and corrosion inhibitor widely used in textile wet processing (e.g., dyeing, printing, bleaching) to improve efficiency, fabric quality, and equipment longevity. Its key roles include:
1. Prevention of Hard Water Scale
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Chelates Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Fe³⁺ in hard water, preventing:
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Dye precipitation (e.g., reactive dyes forming insoluble complexes with Ca²⁺).
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Deposits on fabric (white spots, uneven dyeing).
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Boiler/pipe scaling (CaCO₃, CaSO₄) in steam/heating systems.
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Benefits:
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Improves dye solubility & color uniformity.
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Reduces reworks & fabric defects.
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2. Stabilization of Bleaching Baths (H₂O₂)
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Inhibits H₂O₂ decomposition by chelating metal ions (Fe³⁺, Cu²⁺) that catalyze breakdown.
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Maintains bleaching efficiency, reducing chemical waste.
3. Corrosion Protection for Equipment
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Forms a protective film on stainless steel/dyeing machine surfaces.
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Extends lifespan of jets, boilers, and heat exchangers.
4. Dispersion of Impurities
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Prevents dye agglomeration and fabric staining by dispersing:
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Undissolved dye particles.
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Metal oxides (e.g., Fe₂O₃) from water or machinery.
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5. Synergy with Other Chemicals
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Works with:
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Sequestering agents (e.g., EDTA, gluconates) for enhanced scale control.
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Surfactants to improve wetting/penetration in dye baths.
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6. Application Guidelines
Process | Dosage (ATMP) | Key Function |
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Dyeing | 0.1–0.5 g/L | Prevents dye-fixing issues |
Bleaching | 0.2–1.0 g/L | Stabilizes H₂O₂ |
Boiler Water | 5–20 ppm | Anti-scale/corrosion |
7. Advantages Over Alternatives
Agent | Pros | Cons vs. ATMP |
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EDTA | Strong chelation | Poor biodegradability, costly |
Citric Acid | Eco-friendly | Weak at high temps/pH |
HEDP | High-temperature stable | More expensive |
8. Environmental & Safety Notes
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Low toxicity but slow biodegradation (requires wastewater treatment).
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Complies with ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) when used at recommended levels.
Conclusion
ATMP enhances textile dyeing/printing quality by:
✔ Eliminating hard water effects (scale, dye unevenness).
✔ Stabilizing bleaching baths.
✔ Protecting machinery from corrosion.
For optimal results, test water hardness and adjust dosage accordingly.