Method for inhibiting the deposition of silica and / or silicate compounds in aqueous systems

Abstract

A method of inhibiting the deposition of silica and / or. silicate compounds on a surface in an aqueous system is provided. The method comprises the step of adding a polymer to the aqueous system. The polymer comprises at least one constitutional unit (i) and at least one additional constitutional unit (ii). The constitutional unit (i) is represented by the formula: wherein R is an alkyl group having at least 2 carbon atoms; R1 is selected from the group of, a hydrogen atom, an alkyl group, an aryl group, an ester, an amide, and an imide; k is 2 to 4; and n is at least about 10. The additional constitutional unit (ii) contains at least one group selected from the group of carbonyl groups, sulfonate groups, and phosphate groups.