HEDP - Water Hardness Stabilizer and Chelating Agent

HEDP (short for 1-Hydroxyethylidene-1,1-diphosphonic acid) has been used as an additive in the industrial production of detergent for a long time.

The main reason is that HEDP can function as a chelating agent, scale inhibitor and dispersant and possesses excellent hydrolytic and thermal stability.

The phosphonate is therefore an essential ingredient in many detergents. In addition to its ability to stabilize water hardness and facilitate the dispersion of dirt particles, the chemical is able to remove stains and has antimicrobial and bleaching properties.

HEDP is thus able to perform numerous functions in detergents and has superseded the highly controversial EDTA, a chemical that has a bad reputation due to its environmental impact.

HEDP is also commonly used in industrial water treatment. It is able to prevent the formation of insoluble sulfate and carbonate deposits. This makes HEDP an ideal chemical for reducing encrustations on fabric, which is why manufacturers generally like to use it as a chelating agent in detergents.

Due to its exceptional dispersion properties, HEDP is also effective against contaminants. The chemical is an ideal limescale and corrosion inhibitor and becomes especially effective in a solution containing other inhibitors.

Because of these properties, HEDP is frequently added as a treatment chemical to cooling water systems, carbon water systems, industrial boilers and desalination plants.

HEDP has likewise many uses in the construction materials industry. Apart from its ability to liquefy certain materials, modify their rheology and delay the curing process, HEDP is also an additive that can remove corrosion from metal surfaces and prevent subsequent rust formation.

Moreover, the paper and textile industries use the compound as a chelating agent to bind heavy metals as well as for demineralization and as a stablizier in bleaching applications.

In the cosmetics industry, HEDP can be found in hair dyes and bleaches as a stabilizing agent. The compound also has a significant influence on the cleansing effects of soap, shampoo and body wash. On top of that, it is added to sunscreens to improve the dispersion of white pigments.

Due to its unique compatibility with other chemicals, HEDP is extremely versatile and plays a crucial role in both the industry and our everyday lives.