GLDA-Na4: Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is Glutamic Acid Diacetic Acid Tetrasodium Salt (GLDA-Na4)?

Answer: GLDA-Na4 is a high-performance, biodegradable chelating agent derived from natural L-glutamic acid. In modern chemical formulations, it serves as a sustainable alternative to traditional phosphonates and EDTA. Its primary function is to sequester hard water ions (such as $C{a}^{2+}$ and $M{g}^{2+}$) and heavy metals, thereby preventing precipitation and enhancing the efficacy of surfactants and disinfectants.

Q2: Is GLDA-Na4 a direct replacement for EDTA and NTA?

Answer: Yes, GLDA-Na4 is the preferred sustainable alternative to EDTA and NTA in the European market. Unlike EDTA, which persists in the environment, GLDA is readily biodegradable according to OECD 301B standards. It offers comparable sequestering power across a wide pH range, making it ideal for eco-labeled products (such as EU Ecolabel or Nordic Swan) without compromising on cleaning performance.

Q3: How does the pH value affect the stability of GLDA-Na4?

Answer: GLDA-Na4 exhibits exceptional stability across a broad pH spectrum ($pH2$ to $pH13$). Specifically:

• In Alkaline Conditions: It maintains high solubility and sequestering capacity, making it perfect for industrial CIP (Cleaning-In-Place) and heavy-duty detergents.

• In Acidic Conditions: Unlike many other chelants, GLDA remains effective even at lower pH levels, which is crucial for specialized descaling agents and personal care formulations.

Q4: What are the key environmental and safety certifications for GLDA?

Answer: For European compliance, our GLDA-Na4 aligns with:

• REACH Registration: Fully compliant for import and use within the EEA.

• Readily Biodegradable: Meets OECD 301B criteria (>60% degradation within 28 days).

• Non-Toxic Profile: It is not classified as a sensitizer and is free from CMR (Carcinogenic, Mutagenic, or Reprotoxic) properties, unlike NTA.

Q5: In which applications is GLDA-Na4 most effective?

Answer: GLDA-Na4 is highly versatile and widely used in:

1. Home Care: Automatic dishwashing (ADW) tablets and liquid detergents.

2. Industrial Cleaning: High-pressure cleaners, vehicle wash, and surface disinfection.

3. Personal Care: Preservative booster in shampoos and soaps to enhance shelf life.

4. Agriculture: Micronutrient carrier for high-efficiency fertilizers.