Tetrasodium EDTA

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Tetrasodium EDTA

Tetrasodium EDTA

Tetrasodium EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acidtetrasodium salt) is a white, water-soluble powder commonly used as a chelating agent, meaning it binds to metal ions. It helps to soften water, preserve formulations, enhance the efficacy of cosmetics and personal care products, and improve product stability by neutralizing metal ions that can degrade products or cause unwanted reactions.

CAS Number: 64-02-8
pH Range (1% solution): 10–11
Solubility: Soluble in water

Applications of Tetrasodium EDTA

Tetrasodium EDTA is used in a wide range of industries, including:

Cosmetics & Personal Care

Shampoos, face washes, creams, and lotions as a preservative booster and stabilizer.

Cleaning Products

Used in detergents and soaps to reduce water hardness and improve cleaning efficiency.

Pharmaceuticals

Used to stabilize formulations and as a chelating agent in medical applications.

Food Industry (under controlled, limited use)

Sometimes used as a preservative or stabilizer (check local regulations for allowed concentrations).

Textile & Paper Industry

Improves dyeing consistency and prevents scaling by chelating metal ions.

Water Treatment

Helps remove and bind heavy metal ions from water.

Top 10 FAQs about Tetrasodium EDTA

Q: What is the main function of Tetrasodium EDTA?
A: It chelates (binds) metal ions to prevent them from destabilizing or reacting in formulations.
Q: Is Tetrasodium EDTA safe for use in cosmetics?
A: Yes, it is considered safe when used within prescribed limits (typically less than 1%).
Q: How does it enhance preservatives?
A: By binding metal ions that can feed microbes, it boosts the effectiveness of antimicrobial preservatives.
Q: Is Tetrasodium EDTA natural or synthetic?
A: It is a synthetic compound.
Q: Can it be used in food products?
A: In some regions, yes—but only in very small amounts and for specific applications. Always follow local regulations.
Q: What is the difference between Tetrasodium EDTA and Disodium EDTA?
A: Tetrasodium EDTA is more alkaline (higher pH), while Disodium EDTA is milder and preferred for formulations near skin pH.
Q: Is it biodegradable?
A: No, EDTA is not readily biodegradable and can persist in the environment.
Q: Can it be used in all types of water?
A: Yes, especially in hard water conditions where it prevents scale formation and improves solubility.
Q: How should Tetrasodium EDTA be stored?
A: In a cool, dry place away from moisture and strong oxidizing agents.
Q: Is it compatible with other cosmetic ingredients?
A: Generally, yes—it is highly compatible with most cosmetic and personal care ingredients.

Features & Uses

Feature	Benefit / Use
Chelating Agent	Binds metal ions to prevent instability in products.
Water Softener	Removes calcium and magnesium ions from hard water to improve cleaning power.
Preservative Booster	Enhances efficacy of antimicrobial preservatives.
Stabilizer	Maintains product integrity in cosmetics, cleaners, and pharmaceuticals.
pH Adjuster	Offers alkaline pH, helpful in adjusting formulations to required levels.
Enhances Foaming	Used in personal care to stabilize and increase foam in shampoos/soaps.
Versatile Compatibility	Works well with surfactants, emulsifiers, and most organic/inorganic compounds.
Reduces Scaling	Prevents buildup in pipes and systems in industrial and water treatment plants.
Improves Dyeing in Textiles	Removes metal ion interference during dyeing processes.
Color Protection	Prevents discoloration in formulations by controlling metal-induced oxidation.

Key Points

Highly Effective Chelator: Especially for calcium, magnesium, iron, and copper ions.
Common in Formulations: Found in over 60% of rinse-off and leave-on personal care products.
Boosts Shelf Life: Prevents metal-catalyzed oxidation.
Alkaline Nature: Must be adjusted or neutralized in formulations targeting skin-level pH.
Not Biodegradable: Environmental impact should be considered during disposal.
Low Usage Rate: Effective in small concentrations (typically 0.05%–0.2%).