Scale-Dissolving Agent Selection via Hansen Solubility Parameters
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing scale in geothermal power plants and other systems are inefficient due to the multi-layer structure of sulfur scale, which contains iron sulfide and silica, and the variability of scale components across different locations, leading to increased maintenance costs and difficulty in selecting effective dissolving agents.
Innovation Solution
A method for selecting a scale-dissolving agent based on Hansen solubility parameters (HSP), which determines the specific physical properties of the scale and matches them with a dissolving agent, either single or mixed, to minimize the distance between their coordinates, thereby effectively dissolving the scale. This involves elemental analysis using ICP and applying the selected agent, potentially combined with physical methods like temperature change or mechanical forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dissolving agent capable of dissolving a specific component is used, then the dissolving effectiveness for that component is improved, but the dissolving effectiveness for multi-component scale varies and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) to characterize and select dissolving agents based on quantitative physical-chemical parameters. By determining the HSP coordinates of scale components and selecting dissolving agents with matching parameters, the method systematically addresses varying scale compositions across different locations and plants, resolving the contradiction between specialized effectiveness and general adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal selection methodology using HSP that can be applied to any scale composition regardless of location or plant type. The approach provides a single framework that adapts to different scale components (iron sulfide, silica, calcium carbonate, etc.) by matching dissolving agents to their specific HSP characteristics, achieving both consistency and versatility
2Ease of operation
If a standardized dissolving agent is used across different locations, then operational simplicity is improved, but dissolving effectiveness varies due to different scale components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of scale composition using HSP determination before selecting a dissolving agent. By characterizing the scale's HSP parameters in advance and matching them with appropriate dissolving agents, the method ensures effective treatment while maintaining systematic operational simplicity through a standardized selection process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback mechanism where scale composition analysis informs dissolving agent selection. By determining HSP parameters of the actual scale present and using this information to select the most appropriate dissolving agent, the system adapts to local conditions while maintaining a structured approach to operational decision-making
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach allows for the selection of a dissolving agent tailored to the specific scale composition, effectively removing scale in various plant systems, reducing maintenance costs and time by using a customized solution for different scale types and locations.
Implementation Method 1
a method for selecting a dissolving agent based on a Hansen solubility parameter (HSP)... a step of determining coordinates of specific physical properties of scale to be removed based on HSP; and a step of selecting the dissolving agent based on the distance between the coordinates of the specific physical properties of the scale to be removed and the coordinates of the specific physical properties of the dissolving agent
Data Source
AI summary
A method provides for selecting a scale-dissolving agent suitable for components of the scale. The method for selecting the scale-dissolving agent includes a step of determining coordinates of specific physical properties of scale to be removed based on Hansen solubility parameter and a step of selecting the dissolving agent based on the distance between the coordinates of specific physical properties of scale to be removed and the coordinates of specific physical properties of the dissolving agent. Also provided is a method for removing scale using it.