| abstract |
The present invention provides methods and compositions useful for conditioning and removing solid deposits that have formed on or otherwise accumulated within one or more components including, for example, scale formed within a steam generating system. The aqueous cleaning compositions incorporate one or more quaternary ammonium hydroxides characterized by pKa values no less than about 13.5. These quaternary ammonium hydroxides may be used alone or in combination with one or more additives including, for example, chelating agents, reducing or oxidizing agents, pH adjustment agents, surfactants, corrosion inhibitors, complexing agents, dispersants and combinations thereof. |