PWT’s specialty chemicals feature exclusive Dendrimer technology that effectively reduces scale and fouling, optimizing water treatment system efficiency. This advanced technology not only safeguards your system but also offers numerous benefits. Customers are encouraged to join ATS Water Technology to explore the advantages of Dendrimer technology in the article below.

1. What is Dendrimer?

A dendrimer is a multi-polar (3-dimensional polymer) structure formed from multiple branches, further dividing each branch into additional sub-branches. It is one of the most stable structures found in nature. Dendrimers also maximize surface area within a given space.

Dendrimers are applied in various fields. Dendrimer technology is used in water treatment to produce antiscalant/antifoulant chemicals for filtration membranes. They operate on the principle of capturing ions and isolating them, preventing the formation of scale deposits on membrane surfaces. The branches of the Dendrimer trap metal hydroxide ions and organic compounds. As a result, the system is protected, ensuring stable operation and optimal performance.

2. Dendrimer technology in antiscalant chemicals

To understand how Dendrimer technology is applied to prevent scaling in RO/NF systems, it is first necessary to explore the scale formation process and the mechanisms that avoid accumulation scale on membranes.

2.1. The process of scale formation

In RO/NF systems, scaling occurs when the concentration of dissolved salts exceeds their saturation point, leading to precipitation. This process occurs in the following stages:

  • Supersaturation: The salt concentration increases beyond the saturation level.
  • Clustering: Ions begin to combine into small molecular clusters.
  • Nucleation and Precipitation: These clusters form nuclei that then precipitate.
  • Adsorption: The nuclei adhere to the membrane surface.
  • Crystal growth and scaling: The nuclei grow into larger crystals, forming a layer of scale on the membrane surface.

Below are the 3 common types of scaling:

  • Inorganic scaling: Formed by inorganic compounds such as metal oxides, CaCO3, CaSO4, BaSO4, Fe/Mn, SiO2… present in the water source.
  • Fouling: Formed by organic components such as colloidal particles, suspended solids, TOC, COD, BOD… which are present in high concentrations in the water source.
  • Biofouling: Formed by bacteria and microorganisms in the water, creating a biofilm that causes scaling on RO membranes over time.

2.2. How Dendrimer technology works

A dendrimer is a three-dimensional polymer formed from multiple primary branches, each further dividing into secondary branches, creating a flexible and complex structure. This structure allows dendrimers to interact strongly with ions and compounds present in water, particularly metal ions and metal hydroxides.

The mechanism by which Dendrimers prevent scaling is primarily based on the principle of capturing and isolating ions, preventing them from combining and forming scale particles. The molecular branches of dendrimers can retain ions, limiting the precipitation of metal hydroxides and organic compounds, thereby preventing scale formation in water treatment systems.

Compared to conventional antiscalant chemicals such as chelating agents or inhibitors, Dendrimers do not alter the chemical properties of ions. Instead, they primarily function by isolating them, effectively and sustainably minimizing scale formation.

3. Advantages of Dendrimer technology

Dendrimers offer several advantages in preventing scale compared to conventional anti-scaling chemicals, thanks to their unique three-dimensional molecular structure and effective operating mechanism. Notable benefits include:

  • Strong ion capture capability: Dendrimers can capture and isolate ions, particularly metal ions and metal hydroxides, preventing them from combining and forming scale. This significantly reduces the likelihood of scale formation in water treatment systems.
  • High efficiency: Dendrimers demonstrate high efficiency, allowing for a reduction in the amount of chemicals needed during the anti-scaling process. This optimizes treatment effectiveness and enables the production of concentrated products up to 11 times, resulting in transportation and storage cost savings.
  • Flexible molecular structure: With a three-dimensional structure and multiple molecular branches, dendrimers can interact with various ions, enhancing their applicability in environments with diverse chemical compositions.
  • Good dispersibility and stability in difficult conditions: Dendrimer disperses and is stable in severe situations such as high pH and TDS. This enables long-term antiscalant performance even under challenging operating situations.
  • Effectiveness Against Various Types of Scale: Dendrimers work effectively against different scale types, such as carbonates, sulfates, fluorides, silica, and colloidal particles. This capability addresses diverse scaling issues within water treatment systems.
  • Low viscosity and thermal stability: Dendrimer retains thermal stability with a wide surface area and good solubility, making it suitable for various water treatment applications.

4. Products with PWT’s Dendrimer technology

PWT’s products, leveraging Dendrimer technology, deliver exceptional benefits for water treatment systems. This advanced technology enhances water treatment efficiency, protects the environment, and seamlessly integrates into various systems. SpectraGuard™ 111, Titan ASD™, BioGuard™, and OrganoGuard™ are product lines that utilize this innovation. Some standout products include:

  • OrganoGuard™ 111: A specialty chemical effectively controlling organic fouling, including TSS, COD, BOD, TOC, colloidal particles, and suspended solids. With an 11x concentrated formula, this product reduces transportation costs and is environmentally friendly as it is phosphate/phosphonate-free. OrganoGuard™ 111 is NSF/ANSI 60 certified, ensuring its quality in water treatment systems.
  • BioGuard™ 111: A specialty chemical for controlling biofouling, including bacteria and microbial cells. This 11x concentrated product is phosphate-free and maintains stability in high pH, temperatures, and salinity environments. BioGuard™ 111 is NSF/ANSI 60 certified, making it suitable for potable water treatment systems.
  • Titan ASD 200™ SC: A specialty chemical for effectively controlling inorganic scales such as carbonate, sulfate, iron, and silica in water. This 11x concentrated product features an advanced phosphate/phosphonate-free formula, reducing transportation costs and optimizing water treatment performance even under harsh conditions. Titan ASD 200™ SC is NSF/ANSI 60 certified, ensuring safety and efficiency.
  • SpectraGuard™ 111: A specialty chemical controlling inorganic scales such as carbonate, sulfate, silica, and iron compounds. With an 11x concentrated formula and no phosphate/phosphonate content, SpectraGuard™ 111 delivers superior performance in high-standard water treatment systems. The product is NSF/ANSI 60, Kosher, and Halal certified, meeting stringent quality requirements.

5. Frequently asked questions about Dendrimer technology in water treatment

How durable is the branched structure of Dendrimers?

The branched structure of Dendrimers is highly chemically stable and capable of maintaining integrity in alkaline, acidic, or high-TDS environments without degradation.

Does Dendrimer technology offer long-term economic benefits compared to traditional methods?

Yes, Dendrimer technology provides long-term economic benefits due to its ability to effectively remove fouling at low dosages, reduce chemical usage, and optimize system performance. Products with up to 11x concentration help save on transportation and storage costs.

Is Dendrimer technology environmentally friendly?

Dendrimer technology is environmentally friendly, as most products utilizing this technology are phosphate-free, minimizing negative environmental impacts. This is particularly important in water treatment applications.

In summary, with its outstanding advantages, such as scale/fouling reduction and cost savings, Dendrimer technology is the top choice for water treatment systems. Dendrimer technology, which adheres to international standards, protects the environment while providing long-term economic advantages. Contact ATS Water Technology today for detailed advice and answers to your questions!

ATS WATER TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD