Iminodiacetic acid
Iminodiacetic acid (IDA) is a versatile chemical compound widely used in industrial and pharmaceutical applications. This white crystalline powder serves as an important intermediate in the production of chelating agents, herbicides, and complexing agents for metal ions.
Product Specifications
- Chemical Formula: C4H7NO4
- Molecular Weight: 133.10 g/mol
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Purity: ≥98%
- Melting Point: 247-249°C
- Solubility: Soluble in water and alkaline solutions
- CAS Number: 142-73-4
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Density | 1.49 g/cm3 |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes before boiling |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Vapor Pressure | 0.000001 mmHg at 25°C |
| pH (1% solution) | 2.5-3.5 |
| Bulk Density | 0.6-0.8 g/cm3 |
Packaging & Storage
- Standard Packaging: 25 kg fiber drums with polyethylene lining
- Custom Packaging: Available upon request (1kg, 5kg, 10kg options)
- Storage Conditions: Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
- Shelf Life: 24 months when properly stored
- Handling Precautions: Use appropriate PPE including gloves and eye protection
Frequently Asked Questions About Iminodiacetic Acid
What are the primary applications of Iminodiacetic acid?
Iminodiacetic acid is primarily used as a chelating agent in various industries. Its major applications include water treatment (for metal ion removal), pharmaceuticals (as an intermediate in drug synthesis), agriculture (in herbicide formulations), and chemical synthesis (as a building block for more complex molecules). The compound's ability to form stable complexes with metal ions makes it particularly valuable in these applications.
How should Iminodiacetic acid be handled safely?
When handling Iminodiacetic acid, always wear appropriate personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid creating dust and ensure adequate ventilation. In case of skin contact, wash immediately with plenty of water. For eye contact, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Store the material in a cool, dry place away from incompatible substances such as strong oxidizers.
What is the difference between Iminodiacetic acid and its sodium salt?
Iminodiacetic acid (IDA) is the free acid form with two carboxylic acid groups, while its sodium salt (disodium iminodiacetate) has these acid groups neutralized as carboxylate anions. The sodium salt form is typically more water-soluble and has different pH characteristics, making it preferable for certain applications where higher solubility is required. However, the choice between the acid and salt form depends on the specific requirements of the application, particularly regarding pH sensitivity and solubility needs.
Technical Specifications Table
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Assay (GC) | ≥98% | ASTM E300 |
| Water Content | ≤0.5% | Karl Fischer |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% | ASTM D482 |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤10 ppm | USP <231> |
| Iron (Fe) Content | ≤5 ppm | ICP-OES |
| Chloride Content | ≤50 ppm | Ion Chromatography |
| Sulfate Content | ≤100 ppm | Ion Chromatography |
Applications of Iminodiacetic Acid
- Water Treatment: Chelating agent for metal ion removal in industrial water systems
- Pharmaceuticals: Intermediate for the synthesis of various drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients
- Agriculture: Key component in glyphosate herbicide formulations
- Chemical Synthesis: Building block for more complex organic molecules
- Electroplating: Complexing agent in metal plating solutions
- Analytical Chemistry: Used in chelation chromatography for metal separation