Widely used as a biodegradable chelating agent in household and industrial cleaning products. Effective in water softening by binding metal ions like calcium and magnesium, improving the performance of detergents and cleaning formulations. Commonly found in laundry detergents, dishwashing liquids, and industrial cleaners where it helps prevent scale formation and maintains product stability. Also used in pulp and paper processing to control metal-catalyzed degradation. Suitable in environmentally sensitive applications due to its low toxicity and high biodegradability compared to traditional chelators like EDTA.