Aminotrimethylenephosphonic acid (ATMP) is an organic phosphonate corrosion inhibitor commonly used in water treatment, metal processing, thermal power plants and oil field extraction. Its working principle mainly involves the following aspects:
Complexation: ATMP has the ability to form complexes with metal ions. When ATMP is dissolved in water, its phosphate ions are able to form stable complexes with metal ions (such as calcium ions, magnesium ions, etc.) in water. These complexes can prevent metal ions from combining with other substances in the water, thus reducing metal precipitation and scaling.
Depolymerization: ATMP also has a certain depolymerization effect, that is, it can make the metal ions in the water dispersed uniformly, to prevent their aggregation to form precipitation. By stabilizing the dispersed state of metal ions, it can reduce the risk of scaling and pipeline clogging, and maintain the normal operation of equipment.
Scale inhibition: ATMP’s complexing and depolymerizing effects help to prevent the precipitation and crystallization of hard water components in water (e.g., calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, etc.), thus reducing the rate of scaling in pipes and equipment. It prevents hard water from settling on pipe walls, extending pipe life and reducing the frequency of maintenance and cleaning.
Corrosion inhibition: The ATMP molecule contains phosphate and amino groups, which are able to adsorb on the metal surface to form a protective film, preventing corrosion and oxidation of the metal surface. By forming a protective film, ATMP can effectively reduce the corrosion rate of the metal and extend the service life of the equipment.
In summary, the working principle of Amino Trimethylene Phosphonic Acid as a corrosion inhibitor mainly includes complexation, depolymerization, scale inhibition and corrosion inhibition, etc. Through these mechanisms, it can effectively protect metal equipments and pipelines, prolong their service life, and improve production efficiency.