What the hydrophobic film does, where the technology is used and why product selection and monitoring must be tailored to each system.
From molecule to protective film
Film-forming amines combine one or more amine groups with a long aliphatic hydrocarbon chain. The amine groups interact with the metal-oxide surface while the hydrocarbon chains orient away from the water. This creates a very thin, non-wettable barrier between the surface and the water phase.
Where is the technology used?
This technology family is used in selected open and closed cooling and heating circuits, heat exchangers, industrial water-steam systems and certain shutdown situations. Not every formulation is suitable for every system: MexProtect™ is intended for selected industrial water circuits and is assessed for each installation.
What can happen during conversion?
Film-forming amines can gradually mobilise loosely bound corrosion products from surfaces. Metal transport and filter loading may therefore change temporarily. A controlled start-up, suitable filtration and additional monitoring are important.
How is performance demonstrated?
Combine product control with performance indicators such as corrosion coupons or LPR, iron and copper concentrations, visual inspection and hydrophobicity. Also track process KPIs such as pressure drop, filter loading and heat transfer.
A corrosion inhibitor is not a biocide
MexProtect™ is marketed as a film-forming corrosion inhibitor, without a biocidal claim. For biofilm and biological fouling, MexTech supplies a separate film-forming amine biocide. The exact biocidal use always follows the current country-specific authorisation and product label.
Selection remains system-specific
Water chemistry, material combinations, surface-area-to-volume ratio, temperature, existing deposits, current chemicals and discharge conditions determine whether and how film-forming amines can be used responsibly.