Methyl Ethyl Ketoxime (MEKO, a reducing amine, MW of 87) has been used in industrial and
utility stream generating systems for over a quarter of a century. There are a number of
protective film morphologies. These films from AVT(R), AVT(O), OT and as well as one built
from MEKO fragmentation will be discussed. MEKO end use patents associated with corrosion
and fouling control in both high temperature aqueous1,2,3 and process fluid systems4,5 will also be
noted.

During the early years of MEKO application, internal surfaces were reddish in color
compared to the typical black magnetite films produced from the use of hydrazine or
carbohydrazide. Iron and copper concentrations in the condensate and feedwater are significantly
lower when MEKO is in use compared to hydrazine or carbohydrazide. These iron
concentrations experienced are similar to those derived on Oxygenated Treatment programs
while not operating with condensate polishing equipment and in the presence of cation
conductivity higher than Oxygenated Treatment programs specify.

The data associated with the film morphology compared to AVT(R), AVT(O), and OT as well as fragmentation will be provided. Lower metallics from corrosion, lower iron throw or spalling on start – ups; hence faster clean – ups and start –ups compared to hydrazine or carbohydrazide are experienced in
MEKO applications. These attributes are equivalent to OT or AVT(O) programs which are
touted as the best practice for FAC defense. Field data also reveal excellent performance during
cyclic operations and during extended dry lay-ups. MEKO also provides enhanced dispersancy
of particulate iron within the thermal or boiling water circuit.