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Most acids will remove limescale which is basically calcium carbonate. Even though sulfamic acid is classed as a weak acid and does not produce many protons, it does produce some. The generic equation for this reaction is:

CaCO3 + 2H+ -----> Ca2+ (soluble and can be washed away) + H2O + CO2

Sulfamic acid prefers calcium carbonate ("lime" or "scale" over metal). There are "inhibited" sulfamic acids that actually are even better at "choosing" the scale over the metal surfaces.

Basically, the acid attacks the scale and re-dissolves it adding a H molecule to the carbonate, making bicarbonate. This, then weakens the crystalline structure and forces the Calcium (+2) to reach for stabilizing electrons from the water. Some dissolves, most falls off into solution.

When removing calcium carbonate, sulfamic acid should not be in the system for more than 8 hours, or passivation of metal (referring to galvanized steel) will deteriorate and require repassivation with phosphate treatments.

However, in cases of severe scaling, this may be the only way.

Typically, it takes two (2) pounds of sulfamic acid per every one (1) pound of scale. So buying tubs of sulfamic acid at 100 pounds each isn't uncommon. AFCO and many other suppliers have these ready to go.

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10y ago

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How does sulfamic acid remove lime scale?

Well becasue the sulfamic acid is formed in a giant, roaring volcano in hawai, the sulfamic acid slowly over 10 million years disintigrates the lime scale 1 atom at a time you can tell this by using the simple formula of s=1x10^6-2y(35.6*0.11112)/0.3455471=sulfamic acid. Beacuse the limescale atoms have strong bonds with the nucleus, it is very very hard for the sulfamic acid to break them, so the sulfamic acid gets his acid gang and they break the limescales legs. Overall the best way to remove limescale is to hit your kettle with a sledgehammer, unless you can hire a hitman to blow up your kettle. THE GAME.


What is sulfamic acid?

Sulfamic acid is a compound with the chemical formula H3NSO3. It is a white crystalline solid and is used in various industrial applications such as descaling metals, cleaning of boiler systems, and in the formulation of household cleaners. It is also known for its ability to remove rust and limescale.


What is the anion in sulfamic acid?

Sulfuric Acid


What is the formula for sulfamic acid?

The formula for sulfamic acid is H3NSO3.


How does ethonic acid remove limescale?

Acetic acid (ethanoic acid) in vinegar breaks down the minerals in limescale through a process called chelation. It dissolves the calcium carbonate bonds, making it easier to scrub away the limescale buildup. The acidity of the vinegar helps to loosen and remove the limescale from surfaces.


Can you use sulfamic acid to clean dentures?

Sulfamic acid is used to clean dentures.


Is natural limescale remover an acid or alkaline?

Natural limescale removers are typically acidic in nature. Substances like vinegar, lemon juice, and citric acid are commonly used to remove limescale due to their acidic properties, which help to break down the mineral deposits.


What are the advantages and disadvantages of acetic acid citric acid and sulfamic acid to descale And can you give sources please?

The advantages of sulfamic acid is it won't ruin anything you are descaling as opposed to acetic acid, which evaporates what you are descaling. On the other hand citric acid is weaker than the other two.


Does limescale remover have acid in it?

Yes, limescale removers often contain acids such as citric acid, acetic acid (found in vinegar), or hydrochloric acid to dissolve and remove the mineral deposits. These acids help break down the limescale so it can be easily wiped away.


What are the advantages and disadvantages of sulfamic acid as a descaler?

Advantages: ·Is safe to use as does not produce chlorine gas which can be toxic ·It has a low volatility ·It has a low toxicity · It forms water soluble salts of calcium and ferric iron Disadvantages: It is quite expensive compared to hydrochloric acid


What is the ka value for sulfamic acid?

According to CRC reference data, the pKa of sulfamic acid is 1.05, giving a Ka of 11.2. This is a strong acid.


What are the elements in sulfamic acid?

There are a few different elements in the compound of sulfamic acid. They include hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen.