AA/AMPS Copolymer: High-Performance Sulfonated Polyacrylic Acid Scale Inhibitor

AA/AMPS (Acrylic Acid/2-Acrylamido-2-Methylpropane Sulfonic Acid Copolymer) is a high-efficiency sulfonated polyacrylic acid copolymer designed for the most demanding industrial water treatment environments. By combining the strong dispersing properties of carboxylic groups with the high polarity and calcium tolerance of sulfonic acid groups, AA/AMPS stands as an industry-standard solution for preventing mineral scale in high pH, highly alkaline, and high-temperature conditions.

As a core product at WaterCareChem, our AA/AMPS Copolymer (CAS No. 40623-75-4) is specifically engineered to handle complex water chemistry where standard polymers like PAA or PAAS often reach their performance limits. It is particularly effective in controlling calcium phosphate, calcium carbonate, and stabilized zinc scale.

Chemical Mechanism & Structural Advantages

The molecular structure of AA/AMPS contains two critical functional groups that provide a dual-action mechanism:

• Carboxylic Acid Groups: Responsible for lattice distortion and exceptional dispersion of carbonate and sulfate scales.
• Sulfonic Acid Groups (AMPS): Provides strong polarity and high calcium tolerance. Unlike standard acrylic polymers, the sulfonic group remains highly soluble even in the presence of high concentrations of calcium ions, preventing the “calcium-polymer precipitation” that can plague less advanced systems.

This synergistic combination ensures that AA/AMPS remains active in water with a high concentration index, making it an ideal choice for modern zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) or high-cycle industrial cooling systems.

Technical Specifications (CAS No. 40623-75-4)

Our AA/AMPS is produced under strict quality control to ensure optimal molecular weight distribution and performance consistency.

Key Performance Benefits

1. Exceptional Calcium Phosphate Inhibition

In modern water treatment, phosphate-based corrosion inhibitors are widely used. However, they carry the risk of forming calcium phosphate scale. AA/AMPS is internationally recognized for its superior ability to stabilize phosphate and prevent the precipitation of calcium phosphate even at high pH levels.

2. Stabilization of Zinc Salts

Zinc-based programs are common for corrosion protection. AA/AMPS acts as a stabilizer for zinc ions, preventing the formation of zinc-based scales (“zinc sludge”) on heat transfer surfaces, thereby maintaining system efficiency.

3. High Iron Dispersion

AA/AMPS is excellent at preventing the deposition of ferric oxide (iron rust). This makes it indispensable in metallurgy systems and iron & steel plants where iron contamination is a frequent challenge.

4. Synergistic Effects with Phosphonates

When formulated with organophosphines (such as HEDP, PBTCA, or ATMP), AA/AMPS exhibits a significant synergistic effect. It enhances the overall scale inhibition threshold, allowing for lower chemical consumption while achieving better results.

Industrial Applications

Due to its robust chemical stability, AA/AMPS Copolymer is used across a variety of harsh industrial environments:

• Open Circulating Cooling Water Systems: Primary scale inhibitor for power plants, refineries, and chemical manufacturing.
• Oilfield Water Injection: Used in refill water systems to prevent scaling in downhole equipment and pipelines, even in high-salinity brine.
• Metallurgy & Steel Production: Dispersing iron oxide and mineral scale in high-heat exchange environments.
• Textile Industry: Functions as a high-performance dyeing auxiliary, preventing mineral interference with dyes and ensuring uniform color application.

Usage and Dosage Recommendations

For standard circulating cooling water systems, AA/AMPS can be used alone or in combination with organophosphines and zinc salts.

• Stand-alone Dosage: Typically 10~30 mg/L depending on water hardness.
• Formulated Use: When combined with zinc salts or phosphonates in a balanced program, it is effective within a pH range of 7.0 to 9.5.

Note: Actual dosage should be optimized based on a comprehensive water analysis and the specific concentration index of your system.

Packing and Storage

Packaging: Available in 200L plastic drums (net weight approx. 250kg) or 1000L IBC tanks (net weight approx. 1250kg). Custom packaging is available upon request for bulk orders.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use. The shelf life is 10 months under proper storage conditions.

Safety Information

AA/AMPS is acidic. Avoid contact with eyes and skin. In case of contact, rinse immediately with plenty of water. Refer to the AA/AMPS MSDS for comprehensive safety and handling instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between PAA and AA/AMPS?

While PAA (Polyacrylic Acid) is an excellent general-purpose dispersant, AA/AMPS contains sulfonic acid groups that provide much higher calcium tolerance. This means AA/AMPS will not precipitate out of water in high-hardness or high-alkalinity conditions where PAA might fail.

Why is AA/AMPS preferred for oilfield applications?

Oilfield injection water often contains complex salts and high mineral content. AA/AMPS remains stable and active in high-salinity environments, making it more effective at preventing scale in deep wells and transport pipes than standard carboxylic polymers.

Can AA/AMPS be used in high-temperature systems?

Yes, the carbon-sulfonic acid bond in the AMPS monomer is more thermally stable than simple carboxylic bonds, allowing the copolymer to maintain its scale-inhibiting properties at higher temperatures found in boilers and heat exchangers.

Synonyms: Sulfonated Polyacrylic Acid Copolymer; AA/AMPS; Acrylic Acid-2-Acrylamido-2-Methylpropane Sulfonic Acid Copolymer; CAS 40623-75-4.