Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (GLDA): The Ultimate Eco-Friendly Chelating Agent
In the modern chemical industry, the shift toward "Green Chemistry" is no longer just a trend—it is a necessity. Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, commonly known as GLDA or GLDA-Na4, has emerged as a premier biodegradable alternative to traditional chelating agents like EDTA and NTA.
Derived from natural L-glutamic acid, GLDA offers a unique combination of high performance and environmental safety. This guide explores its physical and chemical properties, key applications, and why Yuanlian Chemical is your trusted partner for high-purity GLDA solutions.
1. What is Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (GLDA)?
Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate (CAS No. 51981-21-6) is a powerful, plant-based chelating agent. Its primary function is to bind with metal ions (such as Calcium, Magnesium, and Iron) to prevent them from interfering with the stability and efficacy of various formulations.

Core Chemical Information
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Chemical Name: Tetrasodium N,N-Bis(carboxymethyl)-L-glutamate
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Molecular Formula:
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Molecular Weight: 351.13 g/mol
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Origin: Synthesized from L-glutamic acid (a natural amino acid).
2. Key Physical and Chemical Characteristics
GLDA stands out due to its exceptional stability and solubility profile compared to other green chelators like MGDA or citric acid.
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High Solubility: It maintains excellent solubility across a broad pH range (from pH 2 to pH 14), making it suitable for both highly acidic and strongly alkaline cleaners.
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Thermal Stability: It can withstand temperatures up to 170°C for extended periods without decomposing, which is critical for industrial processes.
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Preservative Boosting: GLDA acts as a synergistic booster for biocides and preservatives, allowing manufacturers to reduce the concentration of traditional preservatives.
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Superior Biodegradability: It is readily biodegradable according to OECD 301B standards, leaving no persistent chemical footprint in the ecosystem.
Technical Specification Table
3. Major Application Fields
A. Cleaning & Detergents
GLDA is a cornerstone of "green" detergents. It prevents the deactivation of surfactants by hard water ions (), significantly improving stain removal in:
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Automatic Dishwashing (ADW)
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Liquid Laundry Detergents
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Industrial & Institutional (I&I) Cleaners
B. Cosmetics & Personal Care
As a non-irritating, skin-friendly chelator, it is ideal for:
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Shampoos & Body Washes: Prevents cloudiness and improves foaming in hard water.
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Skin Care: Protects natural oils and fragrances from metal-catalyzed oxidation.
C. Industrial Water Treatment
In boilers and cooling systems, GLDA acts as an effective scale inhibitor, preventing mineral buildup and corrosion without the environmental toxicity of phosphates.
D. Textile & Paper Industry
GLDA is used as a stabilizer in peroxide bleaching processes, preventing the rapid decomposition of hydrogen peroxide caused by trace transition metals like Iron or Copper.
4. Why Choose Yuanlian Chemical for GLDA?
When sourcing Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, quality and consistency are paramount. Yuanlian Chemical is a leading manufacturer specializing in high-performance green chelating agents.
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High Purity: Our GLDA-Na4 is produced using advanced synthesis technology, ensuring low NTA content and high active concentration.
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Sustainability: We prioritize renewable raw materials, aligning with global ESG standards.
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Expert Support: Our technical team provides tailored formulation advice to help you transition from EDTA to eco-friendly GLDA seamlessly.
Experience the Yuanlian Advantage
Whether you are looking for a reliable supply for mass production or a high-purity grade for sensitive cosmetic formulations, Yuanlian Chemical delivers excellence in every drop.
Are you ready to upgrade your formulation to a greener standard? [Contact Yuanlian Chemical today] for technical data sheets, samples, or a competitive quote on Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate.
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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