Chelating agents are compounds that bind metal ions, forming stable complexes. This property is crucial in various applications, including water treatment, agriculture, and medicine, where control over metal ions is needed. Traditional chelating agents like EDTA and DTPA are persistent in the environment, posing ecological risks. Biodegradable chelating agents, on the other hand, are designed to break down into non-toxic byproducts, making them a more sustainable option.
