N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid, also known as HEIDA, is a compound with various industrial and scientific applications. It is commonly used as a chelating agent in the manufacturing of household cleaning products, pharmaceuticals, and personal care items such as shampoos and soaps. Additionally, HEIDA plays a crucial role in water treatment processes, where it helps remove heavy metals and other contaminants from wastewater. Its ability to bind to metal ions makes it an essential component in industries that rely on precise chemical processes. Therefore, the relevance of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid extends beyond the laboratory and into our everyday lives through the products we use and the water we consume.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid, also known as HEIDA, finds various commercial and industrial applications due to its chelating properties. This compound is commonly used as a complexing agent in metal plating processes, where it helps enhance the deposition of desired metal ions on the substrate. Additionally, HEIDA is utilized in the formulation of detergents and cleaning agents to sequester metal ions that can interfere with the cleaning action.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid plays a crucial role in the development of pharmaceutical products. Its chelating properties make it a valuable ingredient in certain formulations as a stabilizer for metal ions. HEIDA can also be employed in diagnostic imaging as a chelating agent in contrast agents used in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) procedures. Its ability to bind to metal ions helps improve the contrast and visibility of specific tissues or organs in medical imaging studies.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid appears as a white crystalline powder with no distinct odor detectable to human senses.
The molar mass of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is approximately 191.18 g/mol, with a density of about 1.36 g/cm3. This puts it in line with common food items such as sugar (molar mass around 342.30 g/mol, density around 1.59 g/cm3) in terms of molar mass and density.
The melting point of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is around 153-156°C, while the boiling point is approximately 388-390°C. These values are higher compared to common food items like table salt (melting point around 801°C, boiling point around 1,465°C).
N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is highly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. This sets it apart from common food items like flour, which is insoluble in water and has a high viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is typically produced by reacting iminodiacetic acid with ethylene oxide in the presence of a base catalyst. This process results in the formation of the desired product, N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid, which can be isolated and purified through various separation techniques.
Once N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid has been produced, it can be procured from chemical suppliers who specialize in the manufacturing and distribution of specialty chemicals. The compound is typically available in either liquid or solid form, depending on the specific requirements of the end user. Transportation of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is carried out using standard chemical handling and shipping protocols to ensure its safe arrival at the designated destination.
For large-scale production and procurement of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid, bulk quantities can be ordered directly from manufacturers or distributors that specialize in chemical supplies. These suppliers often offer competitive pricing and flexible shipping options to accommodate the needs of their customers. Overall, the production and procurement of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid involve precise chemical reactions and careful handling to ensure the quality and purity of the final product.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid include its potential to cause skin and eye irritation. It is important to handle this chemical with care, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles. In case of contact with the skin or eyes, it is recommended to rinse thoroughly with water and seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Hazard statements for N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid include “Causes serious eye irritation” and “May cause skin irritation.” These statements indicate the potential risks associated with handling this chemical. It is important to take necessary precautions to avoid direct contact with the skin and eyes to minimize the risk of irritation or injury.
Precautionary statements for N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.” This statement emphasizes the importance of using appropriate personal protective equipment when handling this chemical. It is crucial to follow all safety guidelines and protocols to ensure safe handling and minimize the risk of exposure.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is its utilization as a chelating agent for metal ions in various industrial applications. Studies may focus on understanding its complexation behavior and efficiency in removing heavy metals from wastewater.
Another avenue of research could involve the development of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid-based drug delivery systems. By incorporating this compound into nanoparticles or other carrier systems, researchers could explore its potential for targeted delivery of pharmaceuticals, particularly for treatments requiring metal ion coordination.
Additionally, investigations into the antioxidant properties of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid may be warranted. Studies could assess its ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against oxidative stress, potentially leading to the development of new antioxidant therapies or cosmetic formulations.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid based upon molecular structure is ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). EDTA is a versatile chelating agent that forms stable complexes with metal ions. It contains two amino groups and four carboxyl groups bound to a central ethylenediamine core, making it structurally related to N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid. EDTA is commonly used in various industries for metal ion sequestration and water treatment applications.
Another compound with a similar structure to N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid is diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA). DTPA is a hexadentate chelating agent that features five carboxyl groups and one amine group arranged around a central diethylenetriamine core. This compound is utilized for metal ion chelation in various industrial processes and analytical applications. The structural similarity to N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)iminodiacetic acid lies in the presence of multiple carboxyl and amine groups on a central organic scaffold, allowing for the formation of stable complexes with metal ions.
