A dual-probe approach for evaluation of gypsum crystallization in response to antiscalant treatment

An experimental system was developed to assess and rank the performance of commercial antiscalants designed to inhibit mineral scale formation on reverse osmosis membrane surfaces. The study focused on calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum) precipitation to illustrate an approach to antiscalant ranking based on its ability to retard the observed onset (i.e., induction time) of gypsum crystallization from supersaturated solutions. The experimental method consisted of on-line monitoring solution turbidity rise and calcium ion concentration decline to signal the onset of gypsum crystallization. Significant differences were found among commercial antiscalants with respect to achievable levels of induction time retardation. Moreover, anti sealant effectiveness with respect to dosage also varied significantly among antiscalants. The present approach enables a relatively simple and robust initial screening of candidate antiscalants based on their induction time as a function of the applied dose.