Patent ID: 8821646
Filing Date: 2014-09-02
Classification: A01G,B08B,C11D

Abstract:
1. A method of cleaning a block of an irrigation system fouled by calcium carbonate deposits, comprising the steps of: (step 1) introducing a cleaning formulation consisting of water and a water-soluble organic acid having a pK(1)a of less than 4.0 to irrigation water to lower the pH of said irrigation water to 2.5 to 3.5 whereby acidified irrigation water is formed; (step 2) distributing said acidified irrigation water substantially throughout said block of said irrigation system; (step 3) then stopping the flow of said acidified irrigation water; (step 4) then completely dissolving said calcium carbonate deposits by allowing said acidified irrigation water to stand in said block of said irrigation system for a time period of from 3 to 24 hours; and (step 5) then flushing said block of said irrigation system.