Calcium sulfate scale control technology for circulating cooling water systems: A review

The presence of calcium sulfate scale corrodes piping and other equipment in circulating cooling systems, seriously jeopardizing the stable operation of circulating cooling water systems. Traditional scale inhibition methods face challenges in balancing efficiency and environmental impact, and advanced scale inhibition strategies are needed. In this paper, two different calcium sulfate scaling principles and the scale inhibition mechanism of scale inhibitors are discussed in depth, and the application of fluorescent labeling technology in scale inhibition research is described, and chemical scale inhibition methods, physical scale prevention methods, and combined anti-scaling methods are systematically analyzed. A synergistic strategy combining chemical and physical methods is proposed to achieve more significant synergistic effects; emerging scale inhibition technologies are developed to realize green characteristics and efficient scale inhibition performance. This will provide experience and inspiration for scale inhibition methods and descaling technologies for other scaling salts to ensure efficient operation of circulating cooling water systems and realize safe and stable industrial production.