Tetrasodium EDTA
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Tetrasodium EDTA is the tetrasodium salt of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, a powerful chelating agent widely used in industrial, personal care, and pharmaceutical applications. It effectively binds metal ions such as calcium and magnesium, preventing their interference in formulations. Its ability to enhance stability, improve efficacy, and prevent microbial growth makes it a multifunctional ingredient in a variety of chemical products.
Primary Uses
Personal Care & Cosmetics
Stabilizer: Prevents metallic ions from destabilizing products like shampoos, conditioners, lotions, and creams.
Preservative Enhancer: Improves effectiveness of preservatives by binding metal ions that can fuel microbial growth.
Cleansing Agent: Enhances performance of surfactants and helps remove metal residue from skin and hair.
Cleaning Products
Chelating Agent: Used in household and industrial cleaners to soften water and improve cleaning efficacy.
Scale Inhibitor: Prevents buildup of mineral deposits on surfaces in detergents and dishwashing liquids.
Pharmaceuticals
Formulation Stabilizer: Ensures stability of active ingredients by sequestering metal ions.
Parenteral and Ophthalmic Solutions: Maintains product integrity and prevents precipitation.
Secondary Uses
Water Treatment
Metal Sequestration: Removes heavy metals and hardness ions in water softening and wastewater treatment processes.
Textile & Paper Industry
Bleaching Stabilizer: Prevents catalytic degradation of peroxide-based bleaching agents by binding metal contaminants.
Agriculture
Micronutrient Carrier: Forms stable complexes with metal micronutrients in fertilizers and soil conditioners.
Photography & Film
Solution Stabilizer: Used in photographic processing to maintain chemical balance and image quality.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Tetrasodium ethylenediaminetetraacetate
Common/Trade Name: Tetrasodium EDTA
CAS Number: 64-02-8
HS Code: 2921.51.90
Synonyms: EDTA tetrasodium salt, Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid tetrasodium salt
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: White to off-white crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: Odorless; colorless to white
Melting Point: Decomposes before melting
Solubility: Freely soluble in water
pH (1% Solution): ~10–11
Density: Approx. 0.86 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Eye irritant (Category 2); may cause mild skin irritation
Toxicity: Low toxicity in normal use; avoid prolonged contact or inhalation
Exposure Limits: No specific OSHA PEL; follow general good hygiene practices
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from strong acids and oxidizing agents
Container Type: Bags or fiber drums with liners
Shelf Life: Typically 24 months in unopened packaging under proper conditions
Handling Precautions: Minimize dust generation; use appropriate PPE when handling bulk quantities
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with REACH, GHS, and other international chemical safety standards
Listed in the U.S. TSCA Inventory and the EU Inventory of Cosmetic Ingredients
Approved for limited use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals by regulatory bodies including FDA and EMA
Not classified as hazardous waste under most national regulations
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Not readily biodegradable; persistent in aquatic environments
Ecotoxicity: May cause harm to aquatic life at high concentrations due to metal ion mobilization
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
PPE Required: Safety goggles, gloves, and dust mask recommended
Handling Guidelines: Use with proper ventilation; avoid ingestion and direct contact
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed and labeled properly
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if symptoms persist
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help if irritation continues
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention if needed
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Non-flammable but may emit toxic fumes if involved in fire
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, dry chemical, foam, or COâ‚‚
Hazardous Combustion Products: Carbon oxides, nitrogen oxides, and sodium oxides