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Analysis of EDTA in Water

Ethylenediamminetetraacetric acid (EDTA) is a chelating agent that captures metal ions. When EDTA is added to water, the water becomes softened, but does not remove metal ions from the water. The metal ions simply bind to EDTA tightly.

  1. Description

    • A chelating agent is a chemical that causes bonds with metal ions. EDTA typically forms four to six bonds.

    Uses

    • EDTA is added to detergents and soaps. This allows soaps to work better by binding the calcium and magnesium ions to the EDTA. EDTA is also used in foods to prolong food spoilage. It removes the metal ions from enzymes found in many foods such as chick peas, dried bananas and canned shrimp.

    Details

    • Water hardness generally refers to the amount of calcium and magnesium content in water. When water hardness tests are conducted, a standard EDTA solution is often used. This test determines the content of calcium and magnesium in the water sample. When the test is conducted, the water is typically heated causing the metal ions to dissolve in the water.

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