Zenco Systems LtdChemical Division
+254114591982info@zencochemicals.comChat on WhatsAppGet a Quote

EDTA

EDTA is a chelating agent widely used to bind metal ions in various industrial and water treatment applications.

Industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and water treatment depend heavily on reliable chelating agents like EDTA.

Packaging

25kg bags, 50kg bags

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is EDTA?

Industries such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and water treatment depend heavily on reliable chelating agents like EDTA. This compound plays a vital role in managing metal ion concentrations, ensuring product consistency and safeguarding process efficiency. EDTA, or Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, is a white crystalline powder known chemically as C10H16N2O8 with CAS number 60-00-4. Its primary function is to bind metal ions, preventing them from interfering in chemical reactions or causing unwanted scaling and contamination.

In East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, EDTA is integral to multiple industrial processes. From improving water quality in treatment plants to enhancing fertilizer formulations in agriculture, EDTA’s versatility makes it a staple in these sectors. For businesses requiring dependable supply combined with competitive pricing and technical support, Zenco Systems Ltd offers expert sourcing of EDTA tailored for the East African market.

EDTA: Detailed Product Overview

EDTA is a synthetic amino polycarboxylic acid that acts as a chelating agent by forming stable, water-soluble complexes with metal ions. The molecule contains four carboxylate groups and two amine groups which coordinate with metals like calcium, magnesium, iron, and heavy metals, effectively sequestering them. This chelation inhibits metals from participating in unwanted chemical reactions, such as catalyzing oxidation or forming insoluble precipitates.

Its performance as a chelating agent is measured by its strong affinity for divalent and trivalent metals, enabling efficient complexation even at low concentrations. This quality makes it useful in managing metal ion contamination in various industrial processes. EDTA’s solubility in water facilitates its widespread use in aqueous applications, where it binds dissolved metals and prevents scaling or corrosion.

In industrial contexts, the degree of purity and grade of EDTA supplied influence its suitability for different applications, whether pharmaceutical-grade or technical grade for agriculture or manufacturing. While typical EDTA supplied by Zenco Systems Ltd is a white crystalline powder of confirmed chemical identity, buyers should verify purity and grade with the supplier to ensure compatibility with sensitive processes.

Overall, EDTA’s ability to stabilize metal ions, improve product quality, and reduce maintenance costs underpins its commercial importance. Zenco Systems Ltd supports customers in East Africa with consistent batches meeting these functional expectations and logistics geared for regional industries.

Applications and Uses of EDTA

Water treatment

In water treatment plants, EDTA is employed to chelate calcium and magnesium ions responsible for hardness and scaling in water systems. It helps prevent precipitation of metal salts, protecting filtration equipment and improving water clarity. Dosing depends on water chemistry but typically ranges between parts per million levels in industrial processes. Chelation enhances the effectiveness of disinfectants and prolongs equipment lifespan.

Detergent manufacture

EDTA softens water by binding hard metal ions, allowing detergents to perform more efficiently. This reduces soap scum buildup and enhances stain removal. It’s commonly included in powder and liquid detergents to stabilize ingredients and prevent metal-catalyzed degradation. In detergent formulations, EDTA concentrations are optimized for effective metal sequestration without affecting biodegradability.

Food processing

In food applications, EDTA acts as a preservative stabilizing color, flavor, and texture by controlling metal-catalyzed oxidation. Used in products like canned vegetables and beverages, it maintains product quality during storage. Food-grade EDTA must meet strict purity standards, which Zenco Systems Ltd can confirm upon request for customers in Kenya and surrounding regions.

Pharmaceutical formulations

Pharmaceutical industries incorporate EDTA to improve drug stability by chelating trace metals that could degrade active ingredients. It also enhances the effectiveness of preservative agents in liquid formulations. Usage concentration and grade specifications are tightly controlled and verified to comply with regulatory standards.

Agriculture

EDTA is applied as a micronutrient chelate in fertilizers to improve the bioavailability of metals such as iron, zinc, and manganese to plants. This ensures efficient nutrient uptake and prevents metal fixation in the soil. The precise dosing depends on soil tests and crop requirements, often delivered in foliar sprays or soil amendments.

Manufacturing

In various manufacturing processes, EDTA is used to control metal impurities, prevent scale build-up, and protect catalysts. Industries like textiles, leather, and paper processing depend on EDTA to maintain water quality and product consistency. Supplier consultation is recommended to match product grade with specific industrial requirements.

Looking for alternatives for a specific process? Browse the full Agricultural Chemicals range or ask our technical team which grade fits your application.

Benefits and Advantages

Effective metal ion sequestration

EDTA’s molecular structure allows it to tightly bind a wide range of metal ions, which inhibits metal-catalyzed reactions that can degrade products or cause scale formation. This property enhances process reliability, reduces downtime, and improves the lifespan of equipment exposed to mineral-rich water or raw materials.

Versatility across industries

Its ability to function in diverse media—from water treatment systems to food and pharmaceutical products—makes EDTA a versatile choice. This cross-industry utility means customers sourcing from Zenco Systems Ltd can rely on a single chemical to meet multiple operational needs, streamlining procurement and inventory management.

Regional supply reliability

Zenco Systems Ltd’s supply chain expertise in East Africa ensures consistent availability of EDTA for Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania markets. This reduces lead times and mitigates risks associated with importing chemicals, supporting continuous production schedules and agile project timelines.

Packaging Information

EDTA is supplied in multi-layered bags of either 25 kg or 50 kg to preserve product integrity during transport and storage. These packaging sizes suit both small scale industrial users and larger manufacturers across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Bulk orders can be accommodated with customized packaging or logistics solutions upon request, supporting diverse customer needs and ensuring optimal handling.

Standard formats: 25kg bags, 50kg bags

Storage and Handling

Store EDTA in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials such as strong oxidizers. Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption, as EDTA is hygroscopic and can clump if exposed to humidity. Use corrosion-resistant containers for storage. Shelf life varies by batch but typically extends for several years under proper conditions. When handling, avoid generating dust; use gloves and goggles and follow standard chemical safety protocols.

Safety Information

EDTA is considered low in toxicity but may cause irritation to skin, eyes, and respiratory tract if dust is inhaled or contact is prolonged. Industrial users should wear protective gloves, eye protection, and dust masks as preventive measures. In case of exposure, flush affected areas with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists. Dispose of EDTA waste according to local environmental regulations. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Zenco Systems Ltd for detailed hazard and first aid information.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaC10H16N2O8
Packaging25kg bags, 50kg bags
AppearanceWhite crystalline powder
CAS Number60-00-4
Chemical NameEthylenediaminetetraacetic acid
Storage ConditionsCool, dry, moisture-free environment

Applications

  • Water treatment
  • Detergent manufacture
  • Food processing
  • Pharmaceutical formulations
  • Agriculture
  • Manufacturing

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaC10H16N2O8
Packaging25kg bags, 50kg bags
AppearanceWhite crystalline powder
CAS Number60-00-4
Chemical NameEthylenediaminetetraacetic acid
Storage ConditionsCool, dry, moisture-free environment

Product Features

  • - Effective chelation of divalent and trivalent metal ions
  • - White crystalline powder appearance
  • - Highly soluble in water
  • - Stable complexes formation
  • - Hygroscopic, requires moisture-proof packaging

Industries Served

  • - Agriculture
  • - Water treatment
  • - Pharmaceuticals
  • - Food processing
  • - Detergent manufacturing
  • - Manufacturing

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About EDTA

What is EDTA used for in agriculture?

EDTA is used as a chelating agent to deliver and stabilize micronutrients like iron, zinc, and manganese in fertilizers, improving their uptake by plants and preventing nutrient lock-up in soil.

What purity grades of EDTA do you supply?

Zenco Systems Ltd supplies multiple grades of EDTA including technical and food/pharmaceutical grade. Confirm exact purity and grade when placing an order.

How should EDTA be stored?

Store EDTA in a cool, dry place away from moisture and incompatible substances. Use airtight, moisture-proof containers to prevent caking and degradation.

Can you supply EDTA outside Kenya?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies EDTA reliably across East Africa, including Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries, with tailored logistics support for cross-border deliveries.

Is EDTA safe to handle industrially?

While EDTA is low toxicity, it can irritate skin and eyes. Standard PPE such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks should be used during handling to avoid inhalation or prolonged contact.

What packaging sizes are available?

EDTA is available in 25kg and 50kg bags suitable for industrial use. Bulk packaging and specialized containers can be arranged for large volume orders.

Does EDTA have an expiry date?

Under proper storage conditions, EDTA remains stable for several years. Confirm shelf life with your specific batch certificate of analysis.

Can EDTA be used in food processing?

Yes, food-grade EDTA is used to stabilize colors and flavors by preventing metal-catalyzed oxidation. Ensure to specify food-grade quality when ordering.

How does EDTA improve detergent efficiency?

EDTA chelates hard water metal ions, reducing their interference with detergents and enhancing cleaning performance by preventing soap scum and residue formation.

Related Products

More chemicals in Agricultural Chemicals

View category

Contact Hub

Select how you would like to reach Zenco desk:

WhatsApp

Quick response for pricing, quotations, and follow-up

RECOMMENDED

Call Us

+254114591982

DIRECT

Email

info@zencochemicals.com

AI Assistant

Product guidance, quotation prep, and category discovery