Eco-Friendly Ways to Prevent Scale Build-Up in Factories Using Rosemary Extract

Jenn Hoskins
22nd August, 2024

Eco-Friendly Ways to Prevent Scale Build-Up in Factories Using Rosemary Extract

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco, found that rosemary leaf extract can effectively prevent calcium carbonate buildup in industrial systems
  • The extract works at a low concentration of 54 mg/L, making it more efficient than many traditional chemical inhibitors
  • The study showed that rosemary compounds change the shape and structure of calcium carbonate crystals, preventing their growth
The current study conducted by researchers at Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco, explored the use of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) leaf extract as a green alternative to conventional anti-scaling agents in industrial settings[1]. Scaling, particularly the buildup of calcium carbonate (CaCO3), is a significant issue in various industries, leading to technical problems and economic losses[2]. Traditional chemical inhibitors often pose environmental and health risks, making plant-based solutions an attractive alternative. To begin, the researchers performed a comprehensive phytochemical characterization of the rosemary extract using quantitative assays and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with Diode-Array Detection (HPLC-DAD). This analysis identified several phenolic compounds, including rosmarinic acid, vanillic acid, cinnamic acid, rutin, kaempferol, trans chalcone, and quercetin. These compounds are known for their bioactive properties, including antioxidant and antimicrobial activities[3][4]. The anti-scaling potential of the rosemary extract was then evaluated using conductivity and Linear Chrono-Electrochemical Evaluation (LCEE) tests at 25°C and a total hardness (TH) of 40°f. The results showed that the extract effectively inhibited CaCO3 scale formation at a concentration of 54 mg/L. This concentration is significantly lower than many conventional chemical inhibitors, highlighting the efficiency of the plant-based solution. To further understand the impact of the rosemary extract on scale morphology and crystalline phases, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analyses were conducted. SEM micrographs revealed a noticeable change in the morphology of CaCO3 scales upon the addition of the extract, indicating that the rosemary compounds interfered with the crystal growth process. XRD diffractograms showed a shift in the crystalline phases of the precipitated CaCO3, suggesting that the extract altered the typical formation of scale crystals. The study also employed Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations and Monte Carlo simulations to investigate the interactions between the inhibitor molecules and the CaCO3 (104) and (110) surfaces. These computational methods provided insights into the molecular mechanisms by which the rosemary extract inhibits scale formation. The results revealed that the phenolic compounds in the extract formed stable complexes with calcium ions, effectively preventing the growth of CaCO3 crystals. These findings build on earlier research that has demonstrated the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of rosemary extracts[3][4]. The study by Ibn Zohr University expands the potential applications of rosemary by highlighting its effectiveness as a green anti-scaling agent. This research provides a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical inhibitors, aligning with the growing demand for green technologies in industrial processes. In conclusion, the study underscores the potential of Rosmarinus officinalis L. leaf extract as an effective and sustainable solution for preventing CaCO3 scaling in industrial systems. The combination of phytochemical analysis, experimental inhibition tests, and computational simulations provides a robust framework for understanding and optimizing the use of plant-based inhibitors. This research not only offers a practical application for rosemary extracts but also contributes to the broader field of green chemistry and sustainable industrial practices.

SustainabilityBiochemPlant Science

References

Main Study

1) Green and sustainable strategies to control scaling in industrial plants: investigation of the efficacy of Rosmarinus officinalis L. Extract against CaCO3 scale using experimental and theoretical approaches.

Published 21st August, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1080/09593330.2024.2391074

Related Studies

2) Study of scaling problem in the region of tata (Morocco): Analysis of the elemental composition, crystalline phases, and morphologies of scale deposition in water installations.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apradiso.2022.110388

3) Relationship between the antioxidant capacity and effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) polyphenols on membrane phospholipid order.

https://doi.org/10.1021/jf9026487

4) Antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of rosemary and sage (Rosmarinus officinalis L. and Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae) essential oils.

Journal: Journal of agricultural and food chemistry, Issue: Vol 55, Issue 19, Sep 2007


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