THPS for Oilfield and Industrial Water Treatment
THPS (tetrakis(hydroxymethyl)phosphonium sulfate, CAS 55566-30-8) is a non-oxidising, broad-spectrum biocide used in oilfield water injection and industrial water systems. This page looks at where it is used and why a non-oxidising biocide matters.
Why non-oxidising matters
Oxidising biocides (chlorine, peroxide) are effective but can corrode metal, damage membranes and react with other treatment chemicals. THPS works by a chemical (non-oxidising) route, so it suits systems where oxidisers are impractical.
| Requirement | THPS advantage |
|---|---|
| No corrosion from the biocide | Non-oxidising |
| Compatibility with process chemicals | Does not react like an oxidiser |
| Water-soluble dosing | Fully miscible with water |
| Broad spectrum | Bacteria (incl. SRB), fungi and algae |
Oilfield water injection
| Target | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB) | Cause reservoir souring (H2S) and corrosion |
| Biofilms / MIC | Drive microbially influenced corrosion of pipework |
| Injection-water quality | Protects the reservoir and the surface facilities |
THPS is dosed into injection water and is often used in a programme that alternates biocides to prevent resistance.
Industrial water and paper
| System | Role of THPS |
|---|---|
| Cooling water | Microbial control in recirculating systems |
| Process water | Broad-spectrum antimicrobial treatment |
| Pulp and paper | Slime control in the wet end |
Biocide programmes
THPS is usually part of a biocide programme: alternated or blended with glutaraldehyde, quaternary ammonium or oxidising biocides, with dosing set by microbial monitoring. This keeps control effective and reduces resistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is THPS used in oilfield water?
Because it is a stable, water-soluble, non-oxidising biocide that controls sulphate-reducing bacteria and biofilms without corroding equipment.
Is THPS an oxidiser?
No – it is non-oxidising, which is why it is preferred where oxidisers are unsuitable.
Can THPS be blended with other biocides?
Yes – it is commonly alternated or blended with glutaraldehyde, quaternary ammonium or oxidising biocides.
How is it dosed?
On the active content and the measured microbial load, confirmed by microbial testing.
What is the active content?
75.0% min as [(HOCH2)4P]2SO4.
Related reading
- THPS (CAS 55566-30-8): properties, production and applications
- THPS vs glutaraldehyde and other water-treatment biocides
- Water treatment chemicals: coagulants, flocculants and disinfection
- THPS (CAS 55566-30-8) – product page
PolyBlueChem supplies THPS (CAS 55566-30-8) for oilfield and industrial water treatment, with per-batch COA and SDS. Contact us with your application and tonnage.