SYNTHETIC ACID COMPOSITIONS AND USES THEREOF

Abstract

A synthetic acid composition for replacement of hydrochloric acid in industrial activities requiring large amounts of hydrochloric acid, said composition comprising: urea and hydrogen chloride in a molar ratio of not less than 0.1:1; a metal iodide or iodate; an alcohol or derivative thereof. Optionally, formic acid or a derivative thereof; propylene glycol or a derivative thereof, ethylene glycol glycerol or a mixture thereof; cinnamaldehyde or a derivative thereof; and a phosphonic acid derivative can be added to the composition.

Claims

1. A synthetic acid composition for use in industrial activities, said composition comprising: urea and hydrogen chloride in a molar ratio of not less than 0.1:1; a metal iodide or iodate; an alcohol or derivative thereof; and optionally, a phosphonic acid derivative.

2. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, further comprising formic acid or derivative thereof.

3. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, further comprising a compound selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol or derivative thereof, ethylene glycol, glycerol or a mixture thereof.

4. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, further comprising cinnamaldehyde or a derivative thereof.

5. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the urea and hydrogen chloride are in a molar ratio of not less than 0.5:1.

6. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 5, wherein the urea and hydrogen chloride are in a molar ratio of not less than 1.0:1.

7. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 38, wherein the phosphonic acid derivative is aminoalkylphosphonic salt.

8. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 7, wherein the aminoalkylphosphonic salt is amino tris methylene phosphonic acid.

9. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the metal iodide or iodate is cuprous iodide.

10. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the metal iodide or iodate is potassium iodide.

11. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the metal iodide or iodate is sodium iodide.

12. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the metal iodide or iodate is lithium iodide.

13. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the alcohol or derivative thereof is an alkynyl alcohol or derivative thereof.

14. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 13, wherein the alkynyl alcohol or derivative thereof is propargyl alcohol or a derivative thereof.

15. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 7, wherein the aminoalkylphosphonic salt is present in a concentration ranging from 0.25 to 1.0% w/w.

16. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 15, wherein the aminoalkylphosphonic salt is present in a concentration of 0.5% w/w.

17. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 13, wherein the alkynyl alcohol or derivative thereof is present in a concentration ranging from 0.10 to 2.0% w/w.

18. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 17, wherein the alkynyl alcohol or derivative thereof is present in a concentration of 0.25% w/w.

19. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 1, wherein the metal iodide is present in a concentration ranging from 100 to 500 ppm.

20. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 2, wherein the formic acid or a derivative thereof is selected from the group consisting of: formic acid, acetic acid, ethylformate and butyl formate.

21. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 20, wherein the formic acid or derivative thereof is present in an amount ranging from 0.05-2.0% by weight of the composition.

22. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 21, wherein the formic acid or derivative thereof is present in an amount of approximately 0.1% by weight of the composition.

23. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 2, wherein the formic acid or derivative thereof is formic acid.

24. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 3, wherein the compound selected from the group consisting of: propylene glycol or derivative thereof, ethylene glycol, glycerol or a mixture thereof, is present in a range of 0.05-1.0% by weight of the composition.

25. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 24, wherein the compound selected from selected from the group consisting of: propylene glycol or derivative thereof, ethylene glycol, glycerol or a mixture thereof is present in an amount of approximately 0.05% by weight of the composition.

26. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 4, wherein the cinnamaldehyde or derivative thereof is present in a range of 0.01-1.0% by weight of the composition.

27. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 26, wherein the cinnamaldehyde or derivative thereof is present in an amount of approximately 0.03% by weight.

28. A method for treating scale, comprising contacting the scale with the synthetic acid composition according to claim 1.

29. A method for water treatment, comprising adding the synthetic acid composition according to claim 1 to water to be treated to adjust pH of the water.

30-31. (canceled)

32. A method for treating concrete, comprising contacting concrete with the synthetic acid composition according to claim 1 to etch the concrete or to clean the concrete from equipment or a building.

33. (canceled)

34. A method for using the synthetic acid composition according to claim 1 in the food and dairy industry, comprising processing selected from the group consisting of: contacting the synthetic acid composition with a fluid in manufacturing protein, contacting the synthetic acid composition with a fluid in manufacturing starch, demineralizing whey with the synthetic acid composition, contacting the synthetic acid composition with a fluid in manufacturing casein, and contacting ion exchange resins with the synthetic acid composition during regeneration of the ion exchange resins.

35-37. (canceled)

38. The synthetic acid composition of claim 1, comprising the phosphonic acid derivative.

39. The synthetic acid composition according to claim 38, further comprising: formic acid or derivative thereof; a compound selected from the group consisting of propylene glycol or derivative thereof, ethylene glycol, glycerol or a mixture thereof; cinnamaldehyde or a derivative thereof present in a range of 0.01-1.0% by weight of the composition; and wherein: the urea and hydrogen chloride are in a molar ratio of not less than 0.5:1; the phosphonic acid derivative is an aminoalkylphosphonic salt present in a concentration ranging from 0.25 to 1.0% w/w; the alcohol or derivative thereof is an alkynyl alcohol or derivative thereof present in a concentration ranging from 0.10 to 2.0% w/w; and the metal iodide is present in a concentration ranging from 100 to 500 ppm.

40. A method for adjusting pH of a fluid system, comprising adding the synthetic acid composition of claim 1 to the fluid system.

41. The method according to claim 29, wherein the water to be treated is alkaline effluent from water treatment and the addition of the synthetic acid composition neutralizes the alkaline effluent.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0064] The description that follows, and the embodiments described therein, is provided by way of illustration of an example, or examples, of particular embodiments of the principles of the present invention. These examples are provided for the purposes of explanation, and not limitation, of those principles and of the invention.

[0065] Urea-HCl is the main component in terms of volume and weight percent of the composition of the present invention, and consists basically of a carbonyl group connecting with nitrogen and hydrogen. When added to hydrochloric acid, there is a reaction that results in urea hydrochloride, which basically traps the chloride ion within the molecular structure. This reaction greatly reduces the hazardous effects of the hydrochloric acid on its own, such as the fuming effects, the hygroscopic effects, and the highly corrosive nature (the Cl ion will not readily bond with the Fe ion). The excess nitrogen can also act as a corrosion inhibitor at higher temperatures. Urea & Hydrogen chloride in a molar ratio of not less than 0.1:1; preferably in a molar ratio not less than 0.5:1, and more preferably in a molar ratio not less than 1.0:1. However, this ratio can be increased depending on the application.

[0066] It is preferable to add the urea at a molar ratio greater than 1 to the moles of HCl acid (or any acid). This is done in order to bind any available ions, thereby creating a safer, more inhibited product. Preferably, the composition according to the present invention comprises 1.05 moles of urea per 1.0 moles of HCl. The urea (hydrochloride) also allows for a reduced rate of reaction when in the presence of carbonate-based materials. This again due to the stronger molecular bonds associated over what hydrochloric acid traditionally displays. Further, since the composition according to the present invention is mainly comprised of urea (which is naturally biodegradable), the product testing has shown that the urea hydrochloride will maintain the same biodegradability function, something that hydrochloric acid will not on its own.

[0067] Alcohols and derivatives thereof, such as alkyne alcohols and derivatives and preferably propargyl alcohol and derivatives thereof can be used as corrosion inhibitors. Propargyl alcohol itself is traditionally used as a corrosion inhibitor which works extremely well at low concentrations. It is however a very toxic/flammable chemical to handle as a concentrate, so care must be taken when exposed to the concentrate. In the composition according to the present invention, it is preferred to use 2-Propyn-1-ol, complexed with methyloxirane, as this is a much safer derivative to handle.

[0068] Metal iodides or iodates such as potassium iodide, sodium iodide, cuprous iodide and lithium iodide can potentially be used as corrosion inhibitor intensifier. In fact, potassium iodide is a metal iodide traditionally used as corrosion inhibitor intensifier, however it is expensive, but works extremely well. It is non-regulated and friendly to handle as well.

[0069] Phosphonic acids and derivatives such as amino tris methylene phosphonic acid (ATMP) have some value as scale inhibitors. In fact, ATMP is a chemical traditionally used as an oilfield scale inhibitor, it has been found, when used in combination with urea/HCl, to increase the corrosion inhibition or protection. It has a good environmental profile, is readily available and reasonably priced.

[0070] Amino tris (methylenephosphonic acid) (ATMP) and its sodium salts are typically used in water treatment operations as scale inhibitors. They also find use as detergents and in cleaning applications, in paper, textile and photographic industries and in off-shore oil applications. Pure ATMP presents itself as a solid but it is generally obtained through process steps leading to a solution ranging from being colourless to having a pale yellow colour. ATMP acid and some of its sodium salts may cause corrosion to metals and may cause serious eye irritation to a varying degree dependent upon the pH/degree of neutralization.

[0071] ATMP must be handled with care when in its pure form or not in combination with certain other products. Typically, ATMP present in products intended for industrial use must be maintained in appropriate conditions in order to limit the exposure at a safe level to ensure human health and environment.

[0072] Amino tris (methylenephosphonic acid) and its sodium salts belong to the ATMP category in that all category members are various ionized forms of the acid. This category includes potassium and ammonium salts of that acid. The properties of the members of a category are usually consistent. Moreover, certain properties for a salt, in ecotoxicity studies, for example, can be directly appreciated by analogy to the properties of the parent acid. Amino tris (methylenephosphonic acid) may specifically be used as an intermediate for producing the phosphonates salts. The salt is used in situ (usually the case) or stored separately for further neutralization. One of the common uses of phosphonates is as scale inhibitors in the treatment of cooling and boiler water systems. In particular, for ATMP and its sodium salts are used in to prevent the formation of calcium carbonate scale.

[0073] The use of formic acid as corrosion inhibitor has been known for decades. However, the high concentrations in which its use has been reported along with the compounds it has been intermixed with have not made it a desirable compound in many applications. Prior art compositions containing formic acid require the presence of quinoline containing compounds or derivatives thereof, which render their, use, in an increasingly environmentally conscious world, quite restricted.

[0074] In the present invention, formic acid or a derivative thereof such as formic acid, acetic acid, ethylformate and butyl formate can be added in an amount ranging from 0.05-2.0%, preferably in an amount of approximately 0.1%. Formic acid is the preferred compound.

[0075] In preferred embodiments of the present invention, 2-Propyn-1-ol, complexed with methyloxirane can be present in a range of 0.05-1.0%, preferably it is present in an amount of approximately 0.25%. Potassium Iodide can be present in a range of 0.01-0.5%, preferably it is present in an amount of approximately 0.022%. Formic Acid can be present in a range of 0.05-2.0%, preferably it is present in an amount of approximately 0.1%. Propylene Glycol can be present in a range of 0.05-1.0%, preferably it is present in an amount of approximately 0.05%. Cinnamaldehyde can be present in a range of 0.01-1.0%, preferably it is present in an amount of approximately 0.03%.

[0076] As a substitute for traditional propargyl alcohol, a preferred embodiment of the present invention uses 2-Propyn-1-ol, complexed with methyloxirane. As a substitute for potassium iodide one could use sodium iodide, copper iodide and lithium iodide. However, potassium iodide is the most preferred. As a substitute for formic acid one could use acetic acid. However, formic acid is most preferred. As a substitute for propylene glycol one could use ethylene glycol, glycerol or a mixture thereof. Propylene glycol being the most preferred. As a substitute for cinnamaldehyde one could use cinnamaldehyde derivatives and aromatic aldehydes selected from the group consisting of: dicinnamaldehyde p-hydroxycinnamaldehyde; p-methylcinnamaldehyde; p-ethylcinnamaldehyde; p-methoxycinnamaldehyde; p-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde; p-diethylaminocinnamaldehyde; p-nitrocinnamaldehyde; o-nitrocinnamaldehyde; 4-(3-propenal)cinnamaldehyde; p-sodium sulfocinnamaldehyde p-trimethylammoniumcinnamaldehyde sulfate; p-trimethylammoniumcinnamaldehyde o-methylsulfate; p-thiocyanocinnamaldehyde; p-(S-acetyl)thiocinnamaldehyde p-(SN,N-dimethylcarbamoylthio)cinnamaldehyde; p-chlorocinnamaldehyde; -methylcinnamaldehyde; -methylcinnamaldehyde; -chlorocinnamaldehyde -bromocinnamaldehyde; -butylcinnamaldehyde; -amylcinnamaldehyde; -hexylcinnamaldehyde; -bromo-p-cyanocinnamaldehyde; -ethyl-p-methylcinnamaldehyde and p-methyl--pentylcinnamaldehyde. The most preferred is cinnamaldehyde.

Example 1Process to Prepare a Composition According to a Preferred Embodiment of the Invention

[0077] Start with a 50% by weight solution of pure urea liquor. Add a 36% by weight solution of hydrogen chloride while circulating until all reactions have completely ceased. The ATMP is then added followed by propargyl alcohol, and potassium iodide. Circulation is maintained until all products have been solubilized. Additional products are added now as required (if required). Table 2 lists the components of the composition of Example 1, including their weight percentage as compared to the total weight of the composition and the CAS numbers of each component.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Composition of a preferred embodiment of the present invention Chemical % Wt Composition CAS# Water 60.315 7732-18-5 Urea Hydrochloride 39.0% 506-89-8 Amino tris methylene 0.576% 6419-19-8 phosphonic acid Propargyl Alcohol 0.087% 107-19-7 Potassium Iodide 0.022% 7681-11-0

[0078] The resulting composition of Example 1 is a clear, odourless liquid having shelf-life of greater than 1 year. It has a freezing point temperature of approximately minus 30 C. and a boiling point temperature of approximately 100 C. It has a specific gravity of 1.150.02. It is completely soluble in water and its pH is less than 1.

[0079] The composition is biodegradable and is classified as a non irritant according to the classifications for skin tests. The composition is non-fuming and has no volatile organic compounds nor does it have any BTEX levels above the drinking water quality levels. BTEX refers to the chemicals benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene. Toxicity testing was calculated using surrogate information and the LD.sub.50 was determined to be greater than 2000 mg/kg.

[0080] With respect to the corrosion impact of the composition on typical industrial grade steel, it was established that it was clearly well below the acceptable corrosion limits set by industry for certain applications, including, but not limited to scale treatments, pH control, ion regeneration and concrete truck cleaning.

Example 2

[0081] Table 3 lists the components of the composition of Example 2 including their weight percentage as compared to the total weight of the composition and the CAS numbers of each component.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Composition according to an embodiment of the present invention Chemical % Wt Composition CAS# Water 58.92% 7732-18-5 Urea Hydrochloride 40.6% 506-89-8 2-Propyn-1-ol, complexed 0.2% 38172-91-7 with methyloxirane Potassium Iodide 0.05% 7681-11-0 Formic Acid 0.15% 64-18-6 Propylene Glycol 0.05% 57-55-6 Cinnamaldehyde 0.03% 14371-10-9

Aquatic Toxicity Testing

[0082] The biological test method that was employed was the Reference Method for Determining acute lethality using rainbow trout (1990Environment Canada, EPS I/RM/9with the May 1996 and May 2007 amendments).

[0083] The Trout 96 hour Acute Test (WTR-ME-041) was performed at 5 different concentrations of compositions (62.5, 125, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm) one replicate per treatment, ten fish per replicate.

[0084] The test results indicate that at concentrations of the composition of Example 2 of up to and including 500 ppm there was a 100% survival rate in the fish sample studied. This is an indicator that the composition of Example 2 demonstrates an acceptable environmental safety profile.

Dermal Testing

[0085] The objective of this study was to evaluate the dermal irritancy and corrosiveness of the composition of Example 2, following a single application to the skin of New Zealand White rabbits. The undiluted test substance was placed on the shaved back of each of the three rabbits used in the study. The treated site was then covered by a gauze patch and secured with porous tape. The entire midsection of each rabbit was wrapped in lint-free cloth secured by an elastic adhesive bandage. The untreated skin site of each rabbit served as a control for comparison purposes. All wrapping materials were removed from each rabbit 4 hours following application of the test substance. The application site was then rinsed with water and wiped with gauze to remove any residual test substance. The skin of each rabbit was examined at 30-60 minutes and 24, 48 and 72 hours following removal of the wrappings. Descriptions of skin reactions were recorded for each animal. Dermal irritation scores were calculated for each time point, and a Primary Dermal Irritation Score was calculated according to the Draize descriptive ratings for skin irritancy.

[0086] Tables 4 and 5 report the results of the dermal testing. The scores for edema and erythema/eschar formation were 0 at all scoring intervals for all three rabbits. According to the Draize descriptive ratings for skin irritancy, the Primary Dermal Irritation Score (based on the 24- and 72-hour scoring intervals) for the test substance under the conditions employed in this study was 0.00. Thus, the composition of Example 2 was determined to be a non-irritant to the skin of New Zealand White rabbits. However, this conclusion was drawn without characterization of the test substance.

TABLE-US-00004 TABLE 4 Description of Individual Skin Reactions upon exposure to composition of Example 2 Scoring Interval (Time Following Removal of Wrappings) Animal 30-60 24 48 72 Number Minutes Hours Hours Hours (sex) Skin Reactions Scores 819 (F) Edema.sup.b 0 0 0 0 Erythema/eschar.sup.c 0 0 0 0 820 (F) Edema 0 0 0 0 Erythema/eschar 0 0 0 0 821 (F) Edema 0 0 0 0 Erythema/eschar 0 0 0 0 .sup.a see protocol Table 1 (Appendix A) for a detailed description of the Draize scoring scale (Draize, J. H., Appraisal of the Safety of Chemicals in Foods, Drugs, and Cosmetics, Assoc. Food & Drug Officials of the U.S., Austin, TX, 1959) .sup.bedema: 0 = none, 1 = very slight, 2 = slight, 3 = moderate, 4 (maximum possible) = severe .sup.cerythema/eschar: 0 = none, 1 = very slight, 2 = well-defined, 3 = moderate to severe, 4 (maximum possible) = severe erythema to slight eschar formation

TABLE-US-00005 TABLE 5 Primary Dermal Irritation Score of Individual Skin Reactions upon exposure to composition of Example 2 Scoring Interval (Time Following Removal of Wrappings) 30-60 30-60 30-60 30-60 Minutes Minutes Minutes Minutes Skin Reactions Scores Summary.sup.b Edema Score 0 3/3 3/3 3/3 3/3 1 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 2 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 3 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 4 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 Positive Score Mean 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Erythema and/or Eschar Formation Score 0 3/3 3/3 3/3 3/3 1 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 2 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 3 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 4 0/3 0/3 0/3 0/3 Positive Score Mean 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Irritation Score 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 Subtotal.sup.c PRIMARY DERMAL 0.00 (24-hour subtotal) + 0.00 (72-hour IRRITATION SCORE subtotal) = 0.00 (total score) (DRAIZE): 0.00 (total score)/2 = 0.00 (Primary Dermal Irritation Score) .sup.a see protocol Table 1 (Appendix A) for a detailed description of the Draize scoring scale (Draize, J. H., Appraisal of the Safety of Chemicals in Foods. Drugs, and Cosmetics, Assoc. Food & Drug Officials of the U.S., Austin, TX, 1959) .sup.bNumber of animals with score/number of animals dosed .sup.cIrritation score subtotal = mean erythema score + mean edema score

Corrosion Testing

[0087] Corrosion testing using the composition of Example 2 was carried out under various conditions of temperature and on different steels to show the breadth of the applications for which compositions according to the present invention can be used. Table 6 sets out the test results of corrosion test that were carried out on N-80 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 2 at a 50% concentration. Table 7 reports the test results of corrosion tests that were carried out on J-55 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 2 at a 50% concentration. Table 8 reports the test results of corrosion tests that were carried out on various metal samples using the composition of Example 2 at a 100% concentration. These test results show that the composition of Example 2 meets the regulatory standards for the transportation industry on mild steel, and provide a strong level of protection with respect to aluminum.

TABLE-US-00006 TABLE 6 Corrosion tests carried out on N-80 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 2 at a 50% concentration Final Loss Surface Run Temp Initial Wt. wt. wt. Area Time C. (g) (g) (g) (cm2) (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft2 70 C. 40.898 40.863 0.035 27.11 6 94.41353 2.398 0.003 70 C. 40.898 40.816 0.082 27.11 24 55.29936 1.405 0.006 90 C. 40.896 40.838 0.058 27.11 6 156.4567 3.974 0.004 90 C. 40.896 40.740 0.156 27.11 24 105.2037 2.672 0.011

TABLE-US-00007 TABLE 7 Corrosion tests carried out on J-55 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 2 at a 50% concentration Final Loss Surface Run Temp Initial Wt. wt. wt. Area Time C. (g) (g) (g) (cm2) (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft2 30 C. 37.705 37.700 0.005 28.922 6 12.64263 0.321 0.000 30 C. 37.705 37.692 0.013 28.922 24 8.217709 0.209 0.001 30 C. 37.705 37.676 0.029 28.922 72 6.110604 0.155 0.002 50 C. 37.513 37.502 0.011 28.922 6 27.81378 0.706 0.001 50 C. 37.513 37.485 0.028 28.922 24 17.69968 0.450 0.002 70 C. 37.435 37.396 0.039 28.922 6 98.61251 2.505 0.003 70 C. 37.435 37.350 0.085 28.922 24 53.73117 1.365 0.006 90 C. 37.514 37.430 0.084 28.922 6 212.3962 5.395 0.006 90 C. 37.514 37.255 0.259 28.922 24 163.7221 4.159 0.018

TABLE-US-00008 TABLE 8 Corrosion tests carried out on various metal samples using the composition of Example 2 at a 100% concentration Initial Final Loss Surface Run Temp Wt. wt. wt. Area Density Time Coupon C. (g) (g) (g) (cm2) g/cc (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft2 1018 55 C. 13.994 13.955 0.039 28.503 7.82 72 8.381163 0.213 0.003 steel 7075 25 C. 6.196 6.185 0.011 29.471 2.81 6 76.35013 1.939 0.001 aluminum 7075 25 C. 6.196 6.080 0.116 29.471 2.81 24 201.2867 5.113 0.008 aluminum 7075 25 C. 6.196 1.344 4.852 29.471 2.81 48 4209.668 106.926 0.344 aluminum

Example 3

[0088] Table 9 lists the components of the composition of Example 3 including their weight percentage as compared to the total weight of the composition and the CAS numbers of each component.

TABLE-US-00009 TABLE 9 Composition of a preferred embodiment of the present invention Chemical % Wt Composition CAS# Water 59.028% 7732-18-5 Urea Hydrochloride 40.6% 506-89-8 2-Propyn-1-ol, complexed 0.25% 38172-91-7 with methyloxirane Potassium Iodide 0.022% 7681-11-0 Formic Acid 0.1% 64-18-6

Corrosion Testing

[0089] The compositions of Example 2 and 3 according to the present invention were exposed to corrosion testing. The results of the corrosion tests are reported in Table 10.

[0090] Samples of J55 grade steel were exposed to various synthetic acid solutions for periods of time ranging up to 24 hours at 90 C. temperatures. All of the tested compositions contained HCl and urea in a 1:1.05 ratio.

TABLE-US-00010 TABLE 10 Corrosion testing comparison between HCl-Urea and the compositions of Example 2 and 3 at a 100% concentration Loss Surface Run Initial Final wt. area Density time Inhibitor (%) wt. (g) wt. (g) (g) (cm2) (g/cc) (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft.sup.2 HCl-Urea 37.616 34.524 3.092 28.922 7.86 6 7818.20 198.582 0.222 HCl-Urea 37.616 31.066 6.550 28.922 7.86 24 4140.46 105.168 0.470 Example #2 37.524 37.313 0.211 28.922 7.86 6 533.519 13.551 0.015 Example #2 37.524 35.540 1.984 28.922 7.86 24 1254.149 31.855 0.142 Example #3 37.714 37.520 0.194 28.922 7.86 6 490.534 12.460 0.014 Example #3 37.714 37.329 0.385 28.922 7.86 24 243.371 6.182 0.027

[0091] This type of corrosion testing helps to determine the impact of the use of such synthetic replacement acid composition according to the present invention compared to the industry standard (HCl blends or any other mineral or organic acid blends). The results obtained for the composition containing only HCl and urea were used as a baseline to compare the other compositions. Additionally, the compositions according to the present invention will allow the end user to utilize an alternative to conventional acids that has the down-hole performance advantages, transportation and storage advantages as well as the health, safety and environmental advantages. Enhancement in short/long term corrosion control is one of the key advantages of preferred embodiments of the present invention. The reduction in skin corrosiveness, the elimination of corrosive fumes, the controlled spending nature, and the high salt tolerance are other advantages of preferred compositions according to the present: invention.

Aquatic Toxicity Testing

[0092] The biological test method that was employed was the Reference Method for Determining acute lethality using rainbow trout (1990Environment Canada, EPS I/RM/9with the May 1996 and May 2007 amendments).

[0093] The Trout 96 hour Acute Test (WTR-ME-041) was performed at 5 different concentrations of compositions (62.5, 125, 250, 500 and 1000 ppm) one replicate per treatment, ten fish per replicate.

[0094] The test results indicate that at concentrations of the composition of Example 3 of up to and including 500 ppm there was a 100% survival rate in the fish sample studied. This is an indicator that the composition of Example 3 demonstrates a highly acceptable environmental safety profile.

[0095] Additional testing was carried out to assess the inhibition of marine algal growth, acute toxicity and biodegradability establish the safely for the environment.

Corrosion Testing

[0096] Corrosion testing using the composition of Example 3 was carried out under various conditions of temperature and on different steels to show the breadth of the applications for which compositions according to the present invention can be used. Table 11 sets out the test results of corrosion test that were carried out on N-80 steel (density of 7.86 glee) using the composition of Example 3 at a 50% concentration. Table 12 reports the test results of corrosion tests that were carried out on J-55 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 3 at a 50% concentration. Table 13 reports the test results of corrosion tests that were carried out on various metal samples using the composition of Example 3 at a 100% concentration. These test results show that the composition of Example 3 meets the regulatory standards for the transportation industry on mild steel, and provide a strong level of protection with respect to aluminum.

TABLE-US-00011 TABLE 11 Corrosion tests carried out on N-80 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 3 at a 50% concentration Surface Run Temp Initial Wt. Final wt. Loss wt. Area Density Time C. (g) (g) (g) (cm2) g/cc (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft2 70 C. 40.757 40.708 0.049 27.11 7.86 6 132.1789 3.357 0.003 70 C. 40.757 40.609 0.148 27.11 7.86 24 99.80859 2.535 0.010 90 C. 40.712 40.617 0.095 27.11 7.86 6 256.2653 6.509 0.007 90 C. 40.712 40.475 0.237 27.11 7.86 24 159.8286 4.060 0.017

TABLE-US-00012 TABLE 12 Corrosion tests carried out on J-55 steel (density of 7.86 g/cc) using the composition of Example 3 at a 50% concentration Initial Final Loss Surface Run Temp Wt. wt. wt. Area Density Time C. (g) (g) (g) (cm2) g/cc (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft2 50 C. 38.366 38.342 0.024 28.922 7.86 6 60.68462 1.541 0.002 50 C. 38.366 38.323 0.043 28.922 7.86 24 27.18165 0.690 0.003 70 C. 38.728 38.596 0.132 28.922 7.86 6 333.7654 8.478 0.009 70 C. 38.728 38.448 0.280 28.922 7.86 24 176.9968 4.496 0.020 90 C. 37.543 37.463 0.080 28.922 7.86 6 202.2821 5.138 0.006 90 C. 37.543 37.106 0.437 28.922 7.86 24 276.2415 7.017 0.031

TABLE-US-00013 TABLE 13 Corrosion tests carried out on various metal samples using the composition of Example 3 at a 100% concentration Initial Final Loss Surface Run Temp Wt. wt. wt. Area Density Time Coupon C. (g) (g) (g) (cm2) g/cc (hours) Mils/yr mm/year lb/ft2 1018 55 C. 13.994 13.955 0.039 28.503 7.82 72 8.381163 0.213 0.003 steel 7075 25 C. 6.196 6.080 0.116 29.471 2.81 24 201.2867 5.113 0.008 aluminum 7075 25 C. 6.196 1.344 4.852 29.471 2.81 48 4209.668 106.926 0.344 aluminum

Elastomer Testing

[0097] When common sealing elements used in various industries come in contact with acid compositions they tend to degrade or at least show sign of damage. A number of sealing elements common in industrial activities were exposed to a composition according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention to evaluate the impact of the latter on their integrity. More specifically, the hardening and drying and the loss of mechanical integrity of sealing elements can have substantial consequences on the efficiency of certain processes as breakdowns require the replacement of defective sealing elements. Testing was carried out to assess the impact of the exposure of composition of Example 3 to various elastomers. Long term (72 hour exposure) elastomer testing on the concentrated product of Example 3 at 70 C. and 28,000 kPa showed little to no degradation of various elastomers, including Nitrile 70, Viton 75, Aflas 80, and EPDM 70 style sealing elements.

[0098] The uses (or applications) of the compositions according to the present invention upon dilution thereof ranging from approximately 1 to 75% dilution, include, but are not limited to: water treatment; boiler/pipe de-scaling; soil treatment; pH control; ion regeneration; pipeline scale treatments; pH control; retail cleaner; cement etching; concrete truck cleaning; soil pH control and various pulp and paper industrial applications. It is understood that other uses or applications within the various industries discussed previously can be accomplished using the compositions according to the present invention.

Use of a Composition According to the Present Invention for Etching Floor Surfaces

[0099] Prior to coatings being applied to concrete floors, the surface must be clean, free of contaminants and abraded to obtain maximum adhesion. The standard technique involves applying an acid solution diluted in water and applied directly to the concrete. Since concrete is alkaline, a reaction takes places, and a vigorous formation and release of irritating and/or toxic gas occurs when the acid solution comes into contact with the cement. The residue is then rinsed with fresh water. When done properly the concrete surface will have a texture similar to sandpaper. Using conventional mineral acids puts employees and equipment at risk due to the corrosive nature of the acids, as well as an aggressive fuming characteristic.

[0100] Testing was conducted on floor surfaces and results were noted.

[0101] During the etching process the composition according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention was in a diluted version (at 33% synthetic acid composition according to the present invention to 67% water). As the composition used is a non-fuming product it did not release dangerous fumes nor did it cause corrosion to any equipment in the vicinity. The process was straightforward and it consisted in simply pre-mixing the product with the appropriate quantity of water and apply via spray pump (agitation provided increased permeability). Once applied, the product is left to react for a few minutes, then is rinsed off and the surface is left to dry.

[0102] This composition replaces the harsh muriatic and phosphoric acids prevalent in the industry which are toxic, require substantial personal protective equipment and which require great care to eliminate runoff during the cleanup process. Some municipalities have banned hydrochloric acid from being discharged into the environment and sewer systems.

[0103] Some of the advantages that were noted include the reduction of repairs and maintenance with regards to application equipment (sprayers etc.) increased safety for the employees. Moreover, the after-treatment clean up time is reduced due to less rinsing effort required compared to mineral acids. As well, the user spent less time handling the product since a highly corrosive products requires a great deal more safeguards, than it does when using a composition according to the present invention, used in the present instance.

[0104] This composition is non-fuming, non-corrosive, non-toxic and biodegradable.

Use of a Composition According to the Present Invention as a Hull Cleaner

[0105] As boats are exposed to fresh and salt water, minerals build up on the hull and engine drives, as well as in internal engine parts such as in heat exchangers. The standard technique to deal with the scale involves applying a hydrochloric acid solution diluted in water and applied directly to the boats hull. Using conventional mineral acids puts the environment, employees and equipment at risk due to the corrosive nature of the acids, as well as an aggressive fuming characteristic. Prior to application boats need to be removed from the water as most marinas throughout the world will not allow toxic products to be applied while still in the water.

[0106] The hull cleaning composition according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is one of the most aggressive cleaner of its type, yet remains safe for boat surfaces and the environment.

[0107] This composition removed as much calcium buildup as hydrochloric acid, but did not harm the hull when applied properly. The composition was so strong and effective that it removed barnacles and other calcium life forms. The composition was applied without being. The hull cleaning composition potentially can be applied in the water on a lift as it is biodegradable and non-toxic (depending on local regulations).

[0108] Some of the main features of the composition include the fact that it is biodegradable, environmentally safe, non-toxic, non-fuming and non-hazardous.

[0109] Also noteworthy of mention is that use of this composition according to the present invention can lead to a reduction of logistics (removing large craft from the water) and maintenance with regards to the equipment used in the application (sprayers etc.), as well as safe storage of bulk product for industrial users (non-hazardous). Additionally, increased safety for the employees/customers is another major advantage of this composition according to the present invention. Also, after-treatment clean up time is reduced due to less clean-up effort required (spent product capture), compared to mineral acids.

Use of Composition According to the Present Invention as a Concrete Truck Cleaner

[0110] As concrete trucks are exposed to their product, minerals build up on the body, drying and become very difficult to remove. The standard technique to deal with the dried concrete involves applying a hydrochloric acid solution (or similar strong acid) diluted in water and applied directly to the trucks body parts. Using conventional mineral acids puts the environment, employees and equipment at risk due to the corrosive nature of the acids, as well as an aggressive fuming characteristic.

[0111] Corrosion is a major problem for this industry as well as the high human exposure factor (as trucks are typically washed by hand). As well, chemical residue runoff is difficult to treat and contain.

[0112] The concrete cleaning composition according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is one of the most aggressive cleaners of its type (as effective as a strong HCl blend <15%), yet remains safe for the trucks surfaces, the employees and the environment.

[0113] This composition removed as much concrete buildup as diluted hydrochloric acid, but did not harm the truck body/parts when applied properly. The concrete cleaning composition can be applied anywhere as it is biodegradable, non-fuming and non-toxic.

[0114] Some of the main features of the composition include the fact that it is biodegradable, environmentally safe, non-toxic, non-fuming and non-hazardous.

While the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for purposes of clarity and understanding, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the relevant arts, once they have been made familiar with this disclosure that various changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the true scope of the invention in the appended claims. The invention is therefore to be understood not to be limited to the exact components set forth above.