A Novel Technology for Rapid Detection, Prediction and Control of Scale Deposition in ECF Bleach Plants: Benchtop and Continuous In-line Applications, 2002 Fall Technical Conference

Proprietary test methods and instrumentation have recently been developed that constitute a significant step forward in deposit monitoring at ECF bleach plants. Two models of the device have been developed that employ a quartz crystal microbalance. The first, “scale rate monitoring device”, is a portable benchtop instrument that uses discrete sampling and means to induce deposition on the metal-plated surface of the microbalance (galvanostatic electrochemical and non-electrochemical modes). The second is an on-site, “in-line scale monitoring device” which accurately and reliably provides scale deposit monitoring. The two models are currently employed in laboratory screening and on-site monitoring of scale propensity of bleach plant waters and effectiveness of scale control programs. Effective bleach plant scale monitoring and control improves mill productivity, lowers overall bleaching costs, and improves bleached pulp quality thus bringing higher profitability to the mill.