Some misconceptions about scale inhibition mechanisms: A review

The substoichiometric scale inhibitors are recently broadly applied in desalination plants, boilers, open-circuit water cooling systems, geothermal well systems, oilfield facilities, pulp and paper factories and waste water treatment applications. Numerous attempts are being made worldwide to develop new antiscalants in order to enhance their efficiency and environmental acceptability under assumption, that the mechanisms of action are based on the effects of chelation, dispersion and scale crystals distortion. However, a critical reevaluation of the current understanding of these mechanisms is required, as recent advancements in antiscalant direct visualization, chemical speciation, and in-depth analysis of experimental contradictions suggest a more nuanced perspective. The present review aims to challenge and clarify common misconceptions surrounding the scale inhibition mechanisms, providing a systematic discussion of key findings and proposing innovative alternative approaches for future research in the field. Our goal is to foster a more informed and united research agenda that addresses the complexities and limitations of existing antiscalant technologies, with the ultimate objective of developing more sustainable and effective solutions to the pressing issue of scale formation. • Debunks myths: calcium masking, crystal habit relevance, and zeta-potential impact • Reveals contradictions on assumed vs actual locations of scale inhibitor molecules • Antiscalant visualization and full speciation are vital to grasp activity. • Natural nano/micro-impurities drive inhibition; shift to antiscalant-impurity studies • Shows need to study and control nanoimpurities in labs and field water treatment