What is the Difference Between Disodium EDTA and Tetrasodium EDTA?

The main difference between disodium EDTA and tetrasodium EDTA lies in their chemical structure and pH. Both compounds are sodium salts of EDTA and are used in various industries, including personal care and cosmetics. Here are the key differences between the two:

Number of sodium cations: Disodium EDTA has two sodium cations per molecule, while tetrasodium EDTA has four sodium cations per molecule.
pH: Disodium EDTA has a pH lower than 7, with a range of 4-6, while tetrasodium EDTA has a pH greater than 7, with a range of 10-11.

Both compounds are chelating agents, meaning they can bind with metal ions such as calcium and magnesium, forming a stable EDTA-metal complex. They are used in personal care products and cosmetics to improve stability, prevent discoloration, and enhance the effectiveness of other ingredients. However, due to their different pH ranges, disodium EDTA is better suited for creams, lotions, and hair conditioners, while tetrasodium EDTA is recommended for alkaline products such as foaming soap.

On this page

What is the Difference Between Disodium EDTA and Tetrasodium EDTA?

Comparative Table: Disodium EDTA vs Tetrasodium EDTA

Disodium EDTA and Tetrasodium EDTA are both chelating agents used in various industries, including food, personal care, and pharmaceuticals. They are sodium salts of EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid) and are byproducts of the EDTA synthesis process. The main differences between the two are:

Property	Disodium EDTA	Tetrasodium EDTA
pH	4-6	10-11
Sodium Ions	2	4
Molar Mass	336.2 g/mol	380.1 g/mol

Disodium EDTA has a pH ranging from 4 to 6, while Tetrasodium EDTA has a pH ranging from 10 to 11. Disodium EDTA contains two sodium cations per molecule, whereas Tetrasodium EDTA contains four sodium cations per molecule. The molecular mass of Disodium EDTA is 336.2 g/mol, while the molecular mass of Tetrasodium EDTA is 380.1 g/mol.

Both compounds are used as water softeners and preservatives, and they can be found in personal care products and cosmetics. The choice between Disodium EDTA and Tetrasodium EDTA depends on factors such as the pH of the formulation, solubility, and the specific application.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.