Chelating agents are a class of chemical substances with special molecular structures that can form stable complexes with metal ions. The functions of chelating agents mainly include the following aspects:
Chelation: Functional groups (usually carboxylic acids, amino groups, etc.) in chelating agents can form coordination bonds with metal ions, forming stable complexes. This complexation allows metal ions to be encapsulated in the molecules of the chelating agent, forming a complex with high solubility. The result of chelation is a decrease in the activity and availability of metal ions.
Scale inhibition: Chelating agents form complexes with metal ions in water, preventing their deposition and crystallization to form solid scale. For example, after metal ions such as calcium and magnesium chelate with chelating agents, the formed complex has a high solubility and is not easy to deposit on pipeline walls, equipment surfaces, etc., thereby reducing the occurrence of scaling.
Stability of metal ions: Chelating agents can stabilize metal ions and prevent them from undergoing oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, and other reactions. This is important for certain applications that require stable metal ions under specific conditions, such as catalysts, electroplating processes, etc.
Adsrption and removal of metal ions: Functional groups in chelating agents can have affinity interactions with metal ions in water, promoting the adsorption or precipitation of metal ions from aqueous solutions. This can be used to treat metal ions in wastewater, achieving the purpose of removal and recovery.
It should be noted that the correct selection of chelating agent TETHMP types and usage methods is very important, as improper use may lead to a decrease in the stability of the complex or the formation of adverse reaction products. In addition, the use of chelating agents also needs to comply with relevant regulations and environmental requirements to ensure their safety and environmental friendliness.