What is TETHMP·Na12?

TETHMP·Na₁₂ is a highly phosphonated, nitrogen-containing organic phosphonic acid salt used as an advanced scale and corrosion inhibitor in water treatment applications. It combines the chelating power of phosphonates with the dispersing properties of amine groups, making it particularly effective in high-hardness and high-temperature systems.

1. Key Features & Properties

Chemical Structure: Contains four phosphonate (–PO₃H₂) groups and two hydroxyethyl groups, providing h3 metal ion chelation.

High Solubility: Fully soluble in water (even at high concentrations).

Thermal Stability: Effective up to 120°C, making it suitable for boiler and oilfield applications.

pH Range: Works in pH 4–12, with optimal performance in neutral to alkaline conditions (pH 7–10).

Eco-Friendliness: More biodegradable than traditional phosphonates (e.g., ATMP, HEDP).

2. Primary Applications

Application Dosage (mg/L) Key Benefits

Industrial Cooling Water 5–25 Prevents CaCO₃, CaSO₄, and silicate scales

Boiler Water Treatment 3–15 Reduces iron deposition and corrosion

Oilfield Water Injection 10–50 Controls barium sulfate (BaSO₄) and strontium sulfate (SrSO₄) scaling

Membrane Systems (RO, NF) 2–10 Protects membranes from metal oxide fouling

Pulp & Paper Industry 5–20 Prevents deposit formation in process water

3. Advantages Over Traditional Phosphonates

✅ Superior Scale Inhibition – More effective than ATMP, HEDP, and PBTC in high-hardness water.

✅ Excellent Corrosion Control – Forms stable protective films on carbon steel, copper, and alloys.

✅ Oxidant Resistance – More stable than HEDP in chlorinated systems.

✅ Low Environmental Impact – Partially biodegradable, reducing phosphorus discharge concerns.

4. Comparison with Common Phosphonates

Property TETHMP·Na₁₂ HEDP·Na₄ PBTC·Na₄ ATMP·Na₅

Phosphonate Groups 4 2 3 3

pH Range 4–12 2–9 6–10 1–9

Calcium Tolerance Very High High High Very High

Chlorine Resistance Good Moderate Excellent Poor

Biodegradability Partial Low Low Very Low

5. Recommended Usage & Handling

Dosing Method:

Continuous feed via metering pump (dilute to 5–10% solution).

Batch treatment possible for small systems.

Compatibility:

✅ Works well with polyacrylates (PAA), phosphonates, and zinc salts.

❌ Avoid mixing with high Fe³⁺/Al³⁺ (may form precipitates).

Environmental Note:

Lower phosphorus release than ATMP/HEDP, but still requires monitoring for total phosphorus discharge limits.

6. Safety & Storage

Handling: Wear gloves and goggles; avoid inhalation.

First Aid:

Skin contact → Rinse with water.

Eye contact → Flush with water for 15 min, seek medical help.

Storage: Keep in plastic containers; stable for 2 years in cool, dry conditions.

Conclusion

TETHMP·Na₁₂ is a next-generation phosphonate offering superior scale inhibition, corrosion control, and thermal stability compared to traditional options like HEDP and ATMP. It is particularly valuable in:

✔ High-hardness water systems

✔ Boiler and oilfield applications

✔ Chlorine-treated cooling towers

For optimal performance, conduct water testing to determine the ideal dosage based on system conditions.