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Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA)

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

Metal ion contamination and interference are major challenges in many industrial processes, causing scaling, cloudiness, or product degradation.

Packaging

25 kg bags, 50 kg bags

Supply Region

Kenya, East Africa

Supplier

Zenco Systems Ltd

What is Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA)?

Metal ion contamination and interference are major challenges in many industrial processes, causing scaling, cloudiness, or product degradation. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) addresses these challenges by acting as a robust chelating agent that tightly binds metal ions, preventing their undesirable effects. This function is critical across multiple sectors including water treatment, cosmetics formulation, food preservation, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and detergent production.

EDTA's commercial importance in East Africa cannot be overstated, as industries throughout Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries depend on it to maintain consistent product performance and operational efficiency. Zenco Systems Ltd supplies high-grade EDTA meeting industry standards, ensuring reliable access for customers across these regions. Its ability to improve water quality and protect formulations from metal-induced spoilage positions EDTA as an essential chemical in agricultural chemicals and other industrial applications.

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA): Detailed Product Overview

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) is a polyamino carboxylic acid with the chemical formula C10H16N2O8. Its structure contains four carboxyl and two amine groups capable of binding metal ions through coordinate covalent bonds. This multidentate chelation forms stable complexes with transition metals such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and heavy metals, sequestering them from solutions and preventing their participation in unwanted chemical reactions.

The product typically appears as a white crystalline powder, highly soluble in water. When dissolved, EDTA acts by forming chelate rings around metal ions, effectively reducing their reactivity. This property underpins its use as a metal ion scavenger, improving product stability and preventing precipitation or discoloration in formulations.

In water treatment, EDTA softens water by capturing hardness ions, enabling increased cleaning efficiency and preventing scale buildup. In cosmetics, it stabilizes formulations by inhibiting metal-catalyzed oxidation, extending shelf life. Food and pharmaceutical industries utilize EDTA for metal ion control to maintain product integrity and safety. The purity level of the supplied EDTA typically exceeds 99%, but exact specifications should be confirmed with the certificate of analysis provided by Zenco Systems Ltd.

EDTA’s performance is influenced by pH and concentration; it functions optimally at neutral to alkaline pH ranges, and dosing depends on the specific application and metal ion load. Its robust chelation capability, combined with good water solubility, makes EDTA indispensable for controlling metal ion presence in industrial chemical processes within East Africa’s demanding operational environments.

Applications and Uses of Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA)

Water treatment

EDTA is widely used in water treatment to chelate and remove hardness ions like calcium and magnesium. In municipal and industrial water systems, it prevents scale formation on pipes and equipment, improving lifespan and efficiency. Typical dosing depends on water hardness levels but generally ranges from 1 to 10 mg/L. The chelation allows detergents and cleaning agents to perform more effectively in treated water.

Cosmetics formulation

In cosmetics, EDTA acts as a stabilizer by binding trace metals that catalyze oxidation and spoilage. It helps maintain color, scent, and texture stability in products such as creams, shampoos, and lotions. Usage levels typically range from 0.05 to 0.2% by weight. EDTA’s metal ion control supports product safety and shelf life without interfering with active ingredients.

Food preservation

EDTA helps preserve food products by sequestering metal ions that can induce oxidative rancidity and discoloration. It is used in canned foods, beverages, and processed meats to maintain appearance and flavor. Dosing must comply with food safety regulations and ranges typically from 50 to 200 mg/kg of food product.

Pharmaceutical manufacturing

In pharmaceuticals, EDTA stabilizes formulations by chelating metal contaminants that could degrade active ingredients or reduce efficacy. It is used in injectable solutions, eye drops, and vaccines to ensure product integrity. The concentration depends on the specific formulation requirements but is generally kept low to avoid interference with biological activity.

Detergent raw materials

EDTA enhances detergent performance by softening water and preventing metal ion interference with surfactants. This enables better foaming, cleaning power, and fabric protection. It is formulated into powdered and liquid detergents, often at 1–2% by weight, contributing to cost-effective cleaning processes.

Mining chemical processing

In mining, EDTA is used to extract and separate metal ions from ores and process waters. Its selective chelation helps in flotation processes and wastewater treatment by binding heavy metals, thus protecting equipment and reducing environmental impact. Usage rates are specific to the ore and process but are critical in maintaining operational efficiency.

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 multidentate binding forms stable complexes with a wide range of metal ions, preventing unwanted chemical reactions and precipitation. This effectiveness protects equipment and formulations, reducing downtime and quality loss.

Improved product stability

By controlling metal ion presence, EDTA helps avoid oxidation and spoilage in sensitive products like cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals. This prolongs shelf life and ensures consistent performance throughout the supply chain.

Enhanced water softening

EDTA’s ability to chelate calcium and magnesium ions lowers water hardness, increasing detergent and cleaner efficiency. This reduces chemical usage and labor costs while preventing scale buildup in water infrastructure.

Versatility across industries

EDTA’s reliable chelation properties apply to diverse sectors, from mining to agriculture and consumer goods manufacturing. This versatility means a single supply solution supports multiple operational needs within East African industrial markets.

Consistent supply through Zenco Systems Ltd

Choosing Zenco Systems Ltd ensures dependable EDTA availability in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries, backed by quality control and responsive logistics to minimize production interruptions.

Packaging Information

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) is supplied primarily in 25 kg and 50 kg kraft paper bags, suitable for warehousing and ease of handling in industrial settings. For large-scale consumers, Zenco Systems Ltd can arrange bulk packaging solutions with appropriate transport compliant with chemical safety standards for distribution across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and East Africa at large. Packaging is designed to protect the powder from moisture ingress, ensuring quality retention during transit and storage.

Standard formats: 25 kg bags, 50 kg bags

Storage and Handling

Store EDTA in a cool, dry environment away from moisture and incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers. Use airtight containers or sealed bags to prevent contamination and caking. Avoid exposure to high humidity which can degrade product quality. Shelf life under ideal storage conditions typically exceeds one year. Handle the powder with dust masks and gloves to prevent inhalation and skin contact, as airborne dust may cause irritation. Follow local regulations for chemical handling and disposal.

Safety Information

EDTA is classified as an irritant to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract if inhaled as dust. Personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and dust masks should be worn during handling. In case of contact, rinse affected areas with plenty of water. EDTA is not inherently toxic but should not be ingested or released in large quantities into the environment. Refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by Zenco Systems Ltd for detailed hazard and emergency response information. Dispose of product and packaging in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Technical Specifications

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaC10H16N2O8
Packaging25 kg bags, 50 kg bags
AppearanceWhite crystalline powder
CAS Number60-00-4
Chemical NameEthylenediaminetetraacetic Acid
Storage ConditionsCool, dry place away from moisture and oxidizers

Applications

  • Water treatment
  • Cosmetics formulation
  • Food preservation
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Detergent raw materials
  • Mining chemical processing

Technical Data Sheet (TDS)

GradeConfirm with supplier
PurityConfirm with supplier
FormulaC10H16N2O8
Packaging25 kg bags, 50 kg bags
AppearanceWhite crystalline powder
CAS Number60-00-4
Chemical NameEthylenediaminetetraacetic Acid
Storage ConditionsCool, dry place away from moisture and oxidizers

Product Features

  • - High purity white crystalline powder
  • - Chemical formula C10H16N2O8
  • - Strong chelating agent for metal ions
  • - Highly water soluble
  • - Stable complex formation with metals
  • - Effective across wide pH range

Industries Served

  • - Water treatment plants
  • - Cosmetics manufacturers
  • - Food processing
  • - Pharmaceutical production
  • - Detergent formulation
  • - Mining and mineral processing

Product Overview

Frequently Asked Questions About Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA)

What is Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) used for?

EDTA is primarily used as a chelating agent to bind metal ions in various industrial processes such as water treatment, cosmetics, food preservation, pharmaceuticals, detergents, and mining chemical processing.

How should I dose EDTA in water treatment?

Dosing depends on water hardness and treatment goals, typically ranging from 1 to 10 mg/L. Precise dosage must be tailored to each system's metal ion concentration and performance requirements.

Is EDTA food grade for preservation uses?

EDTA can be used in food preservation but must comply with food-grade standards and dosage limits set by regulatory authorities. Confirm with Zenco Systems Ltd about certification and compliance.

Can you supply EDTA outside Kenya, such as Uganda and Tanzania?

Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd supplies Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA) across East Africa, including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and surrounding countries, supported by reliable logistics.

What packaging options are available for EDTA?

EDTA is supplied in 25 kg and 50 kg bags, with bulk packaging solutions available upon request, suitable for industrial users across East Africa.

How should EDTA be stored to maintain quality?

Store EDTA in tightly sealed containers in a cool, dry place away from moisture and oxidizing agents to prevent degradation and caking.

What personal protective equipment is recommended when handling EDTA?

Use gloves, dust masks, and safety goggles to avoid skin contact and inhalation of dust during handling.

What purity levels can I expect when ordering from Zenco Systems Ltd?

Typical EDTA purity exceeds 99%, but exact values should be confirmed with the certificate of analysis provided at order time.

Does EDTA interfere with active ingredients in pharmaceuticals?

EDTA is used carefully in pharmaceuticals to stabilize formulations; its concentration is controlled to avoid interference with active ingredients while managing metal contaminants.

What are the disposal requirements for EDTA waste?

Dispose of EDTA waste according to local environmental regulations, avoiding direct release into waterways due to potential ecological effects.

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