Iminodiacetic acid (IDA), scientifically known as 2,2′-azanediyl diacetic acid and identified by its CAS number 142-73-4, is a crucial organic compound with distinct chemical properties that dictate its widespread industrial applications. As a dicarboxylic acid amine, its structure features a secondary amino group and two carboxyl groups, which confer its bifunctional nature and enable it to participate in a variety of chemical reactions.

The compound typically presents as a white crystalline powder. This physical form is a direct consequence of its molecular structure and intermolecular forces. Its high purity, often specified as 99% minimum assay, is critical for its use as an intermediate, particularly in the synthesis of glyphosate, where precise chemical reactions are required. The molecular formula of IDA is C4H7NO4, and its molecular weight is approximately 133.10 g/mol. These fundamental chemical parameters are essential for stoichiometric calculations in industrial synthesis.

One of the most significant chemical properties of iminodiacetic acid is its ability to act as a chelating agent. The nitrogen atom and the two carboxylate groups can coordinate with metal ions, forming stable chelate rings. This chelating ability is the basis for its use in the production of chelating resins, which are vital for removing metal ions from various solutions. This property is leveraged in environmental remediation, industrial purification processes, and analytical chemistry.

Industrially, the manufacturing of iminodiacetic acid typically involves multi-step synthesis processes. While specific proprietary methods vary among manufacturers, common routes often stem from readily available precursors. A key pathway involves the reaction of ammonia with chloroacetic acid under controlled conditions. The efficiency and yield of these synthetic routes are critical factors for large-scale producers, with capacities often reaching tens of thousands of metric tons per year, such as the stated 20,000 MT/year capacity often found with established suppliers.

For businesses looking to purchase iminodiacetic acid, understanding these chemical properties and manufacturing considerations is paramount. Sourcing from a manufacturer with robust quality control systems ensures that the delivered product meets the required purity and consistency for downstream applications. This is particularly true for its use as an intermediate in agrochemicals like glyphosate, where any deviation in purity could lead to production issues or affect the final product's efficacy.

The chemical structure also allows IDA to be used as a building block for other specialty chemicals, including surfactants and components for the rubber and electroplating industries. Its reactivity and ability to form stable complexes make it a valuable intermediate for creating compounds with tailored functionalities.

In conclusion, iminodiacetic acid is a chemically versatile compound whose properties are central to its numerous industrial applications. From its fundamental role in herbicide synthesis to its advanced use in chelating agents and specialty materials, IDA's chemical characteristics make it an indispensable part of the modern chemical industry. Ensuring access to high-quality IDA from experienced manufacturers is key to leveraging its full potential.