Sodium Polyaspartate (PASP): The Eco-Friendly Biopolymer for Scale & Corrosion Inhibition

Sodium Polyaspartate (PASP), the sodium salt of polyaspartic acid, represents the pinnacle of “Green Chemistry” in the water treatment industry. As a 100% biodegradable, non-phosphorus, and non-nitrogen biopolymer, PASP is the ideal environmental alternative to traditional polyacrylates and phosphonates. It is designed for industries seeking high performance without contributing to water eutrophication or secondary pollution.

At WaterCareChem, our PASP (CAS No. 181828-06-8) is synthesized using eco-friendly methods, resulting in a water-soluble polymer that provides exceptional scale inhibition—reaching 100% efficiency against calcium carbonate—while maintaining complete compatibility with sensitive ecosystems.

The Chemistry of PASP: A Structural Advantage

Sodium Polyaspartate is a naturally degradable condensation polymer based on the amino acid L-aspartic acid. Its unique molecular structure is the key to its multi-functional performance:

• Amido Peptide Bonds: These bonds provide high chemical stability and organic activity. They are resistant to breakdown at high temperatures, ensuring performance in demanding boiler and oilfield environments.
• Active Carboxyl Groups: The molecular chain is rich in carboxyl groups that complex with numerous metal ions (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Zn²⁺, Ba²⁺). This creates high chemical activity in liquid solutions.
• Hydrophilicity & Solubility: The oxygen and nitrogen atoms within the structural units readily form hydrogen bonds with water molecules, ensuring excellent solubility across various pH levels.

Molecular Formula: C₄H₆NO₃(C₄H₅NO₃M₂)C₄H₆NO₄ | Molecular Weight: 1000 – 5000

2D Molecular Structure of Sodium Polyaspartate PASP

Technical Specifications (CAS No. 181828-06-8)

Our PASP is supplied as a high-purity amber transparent liquid, optimized for immediate integration into water treatment formulations and agricultural products.

High-Performance Scale Inhibition

Sodium Polyaspartate is a powerful antiscalant that operates via threshold inhibition and crystal modification. It is highly effective against a broad spectrum of mineral scales:

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): Achieves nearly 100% inhibition, even in high-hardness water.
• Calcium Sulfate (CaSO4): Prevents gypsum-related scaling in cooling towers and RO membranes.
• Barium Sulfate (BaSO4): Critical for oilfield reinjection water systems.
• Calcium Phosphate: Superior dispersion of phosphate-based precipitates.

Diverse Industrial Applications

1. Sustainable Water Treatment

PASP is used as a green antiscalant and corrosion inhibitor in systems with high hardness, high alkalinity, and high pH. It is an essential component for:

• Industrial circulating cooling water systems.
• Central heating and low-pressure boiler water.
• Reverse Osmosis (RO) and desalination membranes.
• Oilfield reinjection water pipelines.

2. Agriculture & Fertilizer Synergist

One of the most exciting applications for Sodium Polyaspartate is in modern agriculture. When added to urea or compound fertilizers (NPK), PASP acts as a nutrient absorption enhancer:

• Promotes root development and plant metabolic activity.
• Increases the utilization rate of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium.
• Reduces fertilizer leaching, leading to higher crop yields and lower environmental impact.

3. Daily Chemicals & Detergents

As a non-phosphorus water softener, PASP is a key ingredient in “eco-friendly” household and industrial detergents. It prevents “greying” of fabrics by dispersing soil particles and effectively sequestering calcium and magnesium ions in wash water. It is even safe enough for use in disposable baby diapers as a biodegradable component.

4. Oil Drilling & Metallurgy

In the oilfield industry, PASP serves as a highly effective thinner for drilling fluids and a corrosion inhibitor for pipelines, maintaining stability under high-temperature and high-shear conditions.

Environmental Impact & Biodegradability

Unlike traditional EDTA or ATMP, Sodium Polyaspartate is a biopolymer. If accidentally released into the environment, it poses no significant hazard. It undergoes complete biodegradation by microorganisms into carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen-containing compounds that are harmless to aquatic life. Choosing PASP helps facilities comply with strict environmental regulations and “Green Label” certifications.

Packing and Storage

Verpakking: 200L plastic drums (approx. 250kg), 1000L IBC tanks (approx. 1250kg), or according to customer requirements.

Opslag: Store for up to ten months in a shady, dry, and well-ventilated room. Keep away from heat, open flames, and ignition sources.

Safety & Handling

Sodium Polyaspartate is alkaline. Avoid direct contact with eyes and skin. In case of contact, flush immediately with clean water. Although stable under regular use, heating to decomposition may release nitrogen or carbon oxides. For full details, please request the PASP MSDS.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Sodium Polyaspartate truly phosphorus-free?

Yes. PASP is a purely organic amino acid derivative. It contains zero phosphorus, making it the perfect choice for regions with strict limits on phosphorus discharge into lakes and rivers.

Can PASP replace HEDP or PAA?

In many cooling water and detergent applications, yes. While PAA is a good dispersant, PASP offers the added benefit of full biodegradability and superior calcium carbonate inhibition at lower dosages.

How does PASP increase crop yield?

PASP chelates essential nutrients in the soil, keeping them in a form that is easily absorbed by plant roots. This prevents nutrients from becoming “locked” in the soil or washing away with rainwater.

Synonyms: Sodium Salt of Polyaspartic Acid; Sodium Polyaspartate; PASP; CAS 181828-06-8; Biodegradable Scale Inhibitor.