abstract |
An anionic polymer of acrylamide having a skewed molecular weight distribution such that about 60% of said polymer has a molecular weight of about 500 to 2,000 and about 10% of said polymer has a molecular weight of about 4,000 to 12,000 has been discovered. The process of manufacturing this skewed molecular weight distribution anionic polymer is described. Its use as a scale inhibitor for controlling the deposition of adherent scales on the walls of vessels or pipes, and as an anti-precipitant for keeping alkaline earth cations in solution is also described. The use of the anionic polymer of acrylamide consisting of a skewed molecular weight could be used in recirculating water systems, boilers, and in evaporative and reverse osmosis desalination systems. |