In all volatile treatment, which of the following is not typically included?

• A. Hydrazine
• B. Ammonia
• C. Ethanolamine
• D. Non-volatile solvents

Answer: (D)

Volatile treatment relies on substances that vaporize with steam so they can travel through the entire system, including condensate lines, to protect metal surfaces. Hydrazine is used as a volatile oxygen scavenger, helping to keep the steel surfaces from oxidizing as it moves with the steam. Ammonia is also volatile and raises the pH, supporting a protective alkaline environment in both boiler water and condensate. Ethanolamine is a volatile amine that serves as a corrosion inhibitor and pH buffer, assisting in film formation on exposed metal areas. Non-volatile solvents, however, do not vaporize with steam; they stay in the water and can cause carryover, deposits, or other issues, and they won’t provide protection throughout the system. That’s why non-volatile solvents aren’t typically included in volatile treatment.