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  • 2026-01-05

MGDA-Na3 (Trisodium Methylglycine Diacetate) Guide

In the modern chemical industry, the shift toward sustainability is no longer optional—it is a regulatory and ethical mandate. As traditional chelants like EDTA and NTA face increasing scrutiny due to their poor biodegradability, Trisodium Methylglycine Diacetate (MGDA-Na3) has emerged as the industry standard for eco-friendly chelation.1

In this comprehensive guide, we explore why MGDA-Na3 is the preferred choice for formulators worldwide and how Yuanlian Chemical  is leading the supply of this high-purity green solution.

What is MGDA-Na3 (CAS 164462-16-2)?

MGDA-Na3, also known as Trisodium Dicarboxymethyl Alaninate, is a small-molecule, amino-carboxylate chelating agent derived from the natural amino acid Alanine.

MGDA-Na3 produced by Yuanlian Chemical

Unlike legacy agents, MGDA-Na3 offers a unique combination of high sequestration power and an exceptional environmental profile. It is specifically designed to control water hardness ions (, ) and heavy metal ions (, ) even under challenging conditions.

Key Physico-Chemical Characteristics

Understanding the technical profile of MGDA-Na3 is essential for successful formulation:

  • Superior Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable (>60% in 28 days per OECD 301B), making it compliant with global "Green Labelling" standards.

  • High pH Stability: Maintains excellent chelation stability across a broad pH range (pH 2–13.5), outperforming many other organic acids.

  • Thermal Stability: Remains stable at temperatures exceeding 200°C, suitable for high-temperature industrial cleaning and oilfield applications.

  • High Solubility: Highly soluble in water, allowing for concentrated liquid formulations without precipitation.

Technical Comparison: MGDA vs. Traditional Chelants

Feature MGDA-Na3 (Yuanlian) EDTA-Na4 NTA-Na3
Biodegradability Readily Biodegradable Poor Moderate
Toxicity Profile Non-toxic / Safe Potential Hazard Carcinogenic Risk
Chelation Value High ( mg/g) Moderate High
Sustainability Bio-based potential Petrochemical Petrochemical

Key Application Fields

Because of its rapid action and safety, MGDA-Na3 is utilized across diverse industries:

1. Automatic Dishwashing (ADW) & Laundry

MGDA is the "secret ingredient" in phosphorus-free detergents. It effectively removes stubborn stains like tea, starch, and protein while preventing "spotting" on glassware caused by hard water.

2. Industrial & Institutional (I&I) Cleaning

In industrial descaling, MGDA-Na3 can dissolve insoluble calcium phosphate and soap scum. Its stability in alkaline environments makes it perfect for CIP (Cleaning-in-Place) systems.

3. Personal Care and Cosmetics

As a stabilizer, it prevents the rancidity and discoloration of soaps and shampoos by sequestering trace metal ions that catalyze oxidation.

4. Oilfield Chemicals & Water Treatment

In the oil and gas sector, MGDA-Na3 serves as a scale inhibitor and specialized descaler for carbonate scales, even in high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) environments.

Why Partner with Yuanlian Chemical?

At Yuanlian Chemical, we don't just supply raw materials; we provide technical solutions. Our MGDA-Na3 is synthesized using high-purity L-Alanine, ensuring:

  • Ultra-Low NTA Content: Meeting the strictest safety regulations in Europe and North America.

  • Consistency: Every batch is tested against rigorous ISO 9001 standards.

  • Formulation Support: Our R&D team helps you optimize the transition from EDTA to MGDA, ensuring performance remains top-tier while costs are controlled.

Expert Insight: "The small molecular size of MGDA allows for faster kinetics compared to GLDA, making it significantly more effective in short-cycle processes like modern dishwashing and rapid industrial rinsing." — Chief Technical Officer, Yuanlian Chemical.

Conclusion

Trisodium Methylglycine Diacetate (MGDA-Na3) represents the future of chelation—powerful, stable, and sustainable. By choosing Yuanlian Chemical, you are ensuring your products meet the highest performance standards while staying ahead of environmental regulations.

Looking for a TDS or a free sample? [Contact Yuanlian Chemical's export team today to discuss your specific requirements.]

Yuanlian Chemical specializes in the production of polyaspartic acid (PASP),tetrasodium iminodisuccinate(IDS), GLDA, MGDA etc. with stable quality and excellent quantity!

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