| abstract |
Methods for removing iron oxide and other accumulated corrosion products from metal surfaces in contact with aqueous systems, such as cooling water systems, are disclosed. The method steps can be performed without requirement of system shutdown and without requirement of acidic conditions. The methods comprise contacting the corroded surface with an organic reductant/chelant and an inorganic reducing agent while the pH of the aqueous system is maintained within the substantially neutral range of about 6.5-7.5. Pyrogallol and methyl gallate may be used as the organic reductant/chelant. |