Description
Chemical Identity
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Chemical Name: Tetrasodium Ethylenediaminetetraacetate
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Abbreviation: EDTA-4Na
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Chemical Formula: C₁₀H₁₂N₂Na₄O₈
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Molecular Weight: 380.17 g/mol
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CAS Number: 64-02-8
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EC Number: 200-573-9
Specifications of EDTA Tetrasodium
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Purity | ≥ 99.0% |
| pH (1% solution) | 10.5 – 11.5 |
| Solubility in Water | Fully soluble |
| Chelation Value | 260 mg CaCO₃/g |
| Storage Conditions | Store in a dry, cool place in a sealed container |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions, non-volatile |
Applications of EDTA Tetrasodium
💧 Water Treatment
EDTA Tetrasodium is used in municipal and industrial water treatment systems to bind hard water ions (such as calcium and magnesium), thus softening the water and enhancing the performance of detergents and soaps.
🧼 Household and Industrial Cleaners
In detergents and surface cleaners, EDTA-4Na enhances the cleaning power by neutralizing metal ions that can reduce surfactant efficiency. It is commonly found in laundry detergents, bathroom cleaners, and dishwashing liquids.
🌱 Agriculture and Fertilizers
As a micronutrient carrier, EDTA Tetrasodium forms stable complexes with metal ions (like Fe, Zn, Mn), helping plants absorb essential nutrients more efficiently in fertilizer formulations.
🧴 Cosmetics and Personal Care
In personal care products such as shampoos, lotions, and creams, EDTA-4Na acts as a preservative booster, improving the stability of formulations by chelating trace metals that could otherwise catalyze oxidation.
⚗️ Laboratory and Industrial Use
In chemical analysis and manufacturing processes, it serves as a buffering agent, metal scavenger, and intermediate in chemical synthesis, especially in photographic solutions, textile processing, and paper production.
Handling and Safety
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Hazards: May cause mild irritation to skin or eyes on direct contact.
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PPE Recommendations: Use gloves, protective eyewear, and work in a ventilated area.
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Storage Advice: Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry location. Avoid contact with acids to prevent decomposition.
Conclusion
EDTA Tetrasodium (EDTA-4Na) is an essential and versatile chelating agent trusted across a broad range of industries. Its strong binding affinity for metal ions ensures improved formulation stability, water softening, and product effectiveness. With high solubility, low toxicity, and excellent chelation capacity, EDTA Tetrasodium remains a go-to solution in everything from cleaners and cosmetics to fertilizers and water treatment systems.
