A Novel Biodegradable Poly (Hydroxybutanedioic Acid-co-2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic Acid) Copolymer for Water Treatment Applications

N. Mithil Kumar, K. Kanny

Composites Research Group, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Durban University of Technology, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa.

DOI: 10.4236/ojopm.2013.32009                

Abstract

Minimizing the formation of inorganic scale deposits in industrial water continues to be a challenge for water treatment systems. In order to meet this challenge a novel biodegradable poly (DL-malic acid-co-citric acid) copolymer, effective in providing calcium carbonate scale inhibition was developed. Synthesis and characterization of the biodegradable, water-soluble and polyester copolymer was performed. Synthesis was done by direct bulk melt condensation in the absence of a catalyst above 150°C. Characterization of the copolymer was carried out using infrared absorption spectra (FTIR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA) equipment. In the present work the precipitation of calcium carbonate from relative supersaturated solutions at different weight ratios of comonomer inhibition rates have been studied. The results indicate that the copolymer is an effective calcium carbonate descaling inhibitor that suppresses the growth process against calcium mineral scale deposits.

Keywords

Biodegradable Polymers; Bulk Melt Condensation; Copolymers and Calcium Carbonate Scale

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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