GLDA
L-Glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid, tetrasodium salt · also known as Tetrasodium glutamate diacetate
GLDA (tetrasodium glutamate diacetate, CAS 51981-21-6) is a readily biodegradable chelating agent manufactured from renewable, plant-derived L-glutamic acid. It is supplied as a clear, pale-yellow to amber aqueous solution with a 38 – 47 % active content, and binds calcium, magnesium and trace-metal ions across the full pH 2 – 13 range. GLDA delivers the metal-ion control formulators historically obtained from EDTA and NTA, but mineralises more than 60 % within 28 days (OECD 301D) and is not classified as hazardous to the aquatic environment — making it the straightforward choice for detergents, industrial cleaners and any formulation where EDTA is restricted. Standard packaging is 250 kg drums and 1250 kg IBCs.
- Readily biodegradable — above 60 % in 28 days (OECD 301D)
- Effective chelation across the full pH 2 – 13 range
- Made from renewable, plant-derived L-glutamic acid
- Not classified as hazardous to the aquatic environment
Key properties
Typical values for standard commercial grades.
- Appearance
- Clear, pale-yellow to amber liquid
- Active content
- 38 – 47 % as GLDA-Na₄
- pH (1 % solution)
- 11 – 12
- Density (25 °C)
- 1.25 – 1.35 g/cm³
- Solubility
- Completely miscible with water
- Biodegradability
- > 60 % / 28 days (OECD 301D)
- Molecular weight
- 351.13 g/mol
- CAS number
- 51981-21-6
The full technical data sheet includes chelation values for Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺ and Fe³⁺, temperature stability data and the biodegradation test report.
Where GLDA is used
- Household and industrial detergents — builder and booster
- Hard-surface and industrial cleaning, replacing EDTA or NTA
- Membrane and CIP cleaning, including food and beverage
- Water treatment where EDTA use is restricted
- Textile pretreatment and metal surface treatment
- Agrochemical and personal-care formulations
Need a quotation or the full technical data?
Tell us the grade, quantity and destination port — we reply within one business day with pricing, TDS and MSDS.