Analysis of EDTA and DTPA

Abstract

In this paper, analytical techniques for the determination of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) are reviewed. These compounds, especially EDTA, are used as metal chelating agents in several industries. As they are likely to be poorly degraded in waste water treatment plants, significant amounts of EDTA and DTPA are released into natural waters. The overview consists of comparing chromatographic, electrochemical, spectrophotometric, titrimetric and atomic absorption methods and their applicability to the determination of EDTA and DTPA in different matrices.