Airable Research Lab, in partnership with LFS Chemistry, has developed a non-phosphorous alternative to its soy-based scale-inhibiting additive. The scale inhibition industry has been historically dominated by phosphorous-based chemistries. Currently, overexploitation of phosphorous—along with a pandemic, geopolitical disputes, trade wars, and escalating fuel prices—has limited access to the element and driven up prices. In addition, phosphorus in our waterways lead to eutrophication, a serious form of water pollution. Airable’s renewable, phosphorous-free solution conserves and preserves our natural resources, with a scale inhibition efficiency of up to 90%.
Non-Phosphorus Soy-Based Scale Inhibitor
Airable Research Lab, in partnership with LFS Chemistry, has developed a non-phosphorous alternative to its soy-based scale-inhibiting additive. The water treatment industry requires scale inhibitors to prevent the buildup of calcium scale in water systems. As it passes through the ground, water picks up insoluble minerals. These minerals precipitate, resulting in a cement-like mineral coating, known as scale. Over time, these deposits grow and harden, preventing fluid from flowing through pipelines, valves, pumps, and other machinery. Leaving scale buildup unaddressed can permanently damage equipment.
The scale inhibition industry has been historically dominated by phosphorous-based chemistries. Currently, overexploitation of phosphorous—along with a pandemic, geopolitical disputes, trade wars, and escalating fuel prices—has limited access to the element and driven up prices. In addition, phosphorus in our waterways lead to eutrophication, a serious form of water pollution. Airable’s renewable, phosphorous-free solution conserves and preserves our natural resources.
Technology Development
LFS focuses on oil and gas (O&G) operations for the future green economy, providing additives that reflect environmental, social, and corporate governance. LFS engaged Airable in 2022 to develop a bio-based scale inhibitor, then reached out again in 2023 for a non-phosphorous upgrade. Both static and dynamic scale tests were used to evaluate the new formulation, confirming that it significantly delays scale formation.
Airable has transferred both technologies to LFS, which is using its combined executive leadership experience of over 50 years in O&G experience to commercialize this technology.
Furthermore, Airable has begun evaluating the product’s application in other water treatment industries. Preliminary tests suggest the formulation can help dissolve scale after it forms.
Highlights
GREEN PRODUCTS CAPITALIZE ON A CRITICAL MARKET TREND
Growing sustainability concerns have prompted advocacy for stricter chemical regulations, and both evolving policy and consumer preference have stimulated market shifts toward bio-based raw materials. Soybeans have broad applications across both consumer and industrial spheres, often providing benefits in terms of cost, function, and sustainability.
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