Overview
Nitrilotriacetic acid ( CAS 139-13-9 ), commonly abbreviated as NTA, is a chelating agent that binds and sequesters metal ions in aqueous systems. Triglycollamic acid and aminotriacetic acid are recognized alternative names encountered in technical sourcing.
It functions as a cost-effective alternative to EDTA across industrial processes where metal ion control is critical. In water treatment, NTA prevents scale formation and controls heavy metal precipitation in industrial cooling and process water systems.
Textile and paper manufacturers use it to deactivate trace metals that would otherwise interfere with bleaching, dyeing, and pulp processing. This improves consistency and reduces chemical waste during large-scale manufacturing operations.
In leather processing, it supports metal removal during preparatory stages, contributing to cleaner effluent profiles. Personal care formulators incorporate NTA as a sequestrant to stabilize formulations against metal-induced degradation.
This stabilization prevents discoloration and maintains the shelf life of various consumer products. Nitrilotriacetic acid is supplied as a white crystalline powder for easy handling and storage in industrial environments.
It is also available as the trisodium salt, which offers improved water solubility for liquid formulations and dosing systems. Technical grade is the standard commercial specification for most industrial and chemical applications.
Purity levels are typically confirmed by titration or HPLC methods to meet industrial application requirements. This ensures consistent performance and reliability for manufacturers across the global chemical supply chain.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 242 °C (decomp) |
| Boiling Point | 326.86°C (rough estimate) |
| Density | >1 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Flash Point | 100 °C |
| Appearance | Nitrilotriacetic acid is a crystalline compound. |
| Color | White |
| Form | Powder |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble. <0.01 g/100 mL at 23 ºC |
| Vapor Pressure | 0-0Pa at 20-25℃ |
| Refractive Index | 1.4860 (estimate) |
| pH | 1.7-2.7 (23°C, 10g/L) |
| Log P | -3.81 at 25℃ |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 GHS08 GHS09 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H319 Causes serious eye irritation H320 Causes eye irritation H340 May cause genetic defects H351 Suspected of causing cancer H373 May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H402 Harmful to aquatic life H411 Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 29224995 |
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 139-13-9
- EC Number
- 205-355-7
- Mol. Weight
- 191.14
- HS Code
- 29224995
- Category
- Organic Acids