Problem and its Background A. Introduction Chelating agent is a compound that combines with metal ions to form stable ring structures. It is used to reduce the concentration of free metal ion in solution by complexing it. From the Greek term “chela” that means “the great claw” of the lobster or other crustaceans, chelate, root word for “chelating”, suggests the way in which an organic compound “clamps” onto the cationic element, which it chelates.
In order for a compound to be called a true chelating agent, it must have certain chemical characteristics. This chelating compound must consist of at least two sites capable of donating electrons (coordinate covalent bond) to the metal it chelates.
For true chelation to occur the donating atom/s must also be in a position within the chelating molecule so that a formation of a ring with the metal ion can occur. The term sequestered deals more with the action of chelation or complexing, not the actual chemical arrangement or definition. The term “complexed” originates from combinations of minerals and organic compounds that do not meet the guidelines of a true chelate.
Chelators are used in producing nutritional supplements, fertilizers, chemical analysis, as water softeners, commercial products such as shampoos and food preservatives, medicine, heavy metal detox, and industrial applications.
Citric Acid is one of the organic acids commonly used as a chelating agent. It is considered an excellent chelating agent that binds metals. It is used to remove lime scale from boilers and evaporators. It can be used to soften water, which makes it useful in soaps and laundry detergents. By chelating the metals in hard water, it lets these cleaners produce foam and work better without need for water softening devices. Citric acid is the active ingredient in some bathroom and kitchen cleaning solutions. A solution with a 6% concentration of citric acid will remove hard water stains from glass without
References: * Fukuda S. Chelating agents used for plutonium and uranium removal in radiation emergency medicine. 2005. * Mustafa Yigitoglu. PRODUCTION OF CITRIC ACID BY FUNGI. 2006 * Joyce Koshy * Local Isolate and MTCC 1784. PRODUCTION OF CITRIC ACID FROM CITRUS FRUIT WASTES. 2003 Websites: Birth date: | May 16, 1997 | Birthplace: | San Pablo City, Laguna |