Green chelating agents

Replacements for phosphates

Cleaning products suppliers and manufacturers continue to face the challenge of developing formulations that are safer for people and the environment. A key challenge is finding replacements for phosphates. Green chelating agents, also known as chelants or sequestering agents, offer effective, sustainable alternatives.

Hard water contains high levels of metal ions such as calcium and magnesium, which have a powerful influence on chemical processes and the performance of many products. Removing metal ions is therefore a key part of many industrial and domestic processes that use water. For example, if these ions are not removed from your dishwasher, insoluble deposits build up inside the machine and on surfaces leading to dirtier dishes.

For many years, metal ions were removed by adding phosphates to detergents. However, the phosphorus in phosphates acts as a nutrient in the environment, and the deposition of large quantities of phosphate in lakes and waterways induces excessive growth of plants and algae (known as eutrophication). This excessive growth depletes oxygen and endangers other aquatic life. As a result, phosphates have been phased out around the world.

High-performing, biodegradable phosphate alternatives