This chemical is primarily used as a chelating agent in various industrial and chemical processes. It effectively binds to metal ions, making it valuable in water treatment applications to prevent scaling and corrosion caused by metal ions like calcium and magnesium. In the field of detergents and cleaning products, it enhances the performance by softening water and improving the efficiency of surfactants. Additionally, it is utilized in the formulation of personal care products, such as shampoos and soaps, to stabilize the product and improve its texture. In industrial settings, it is employed in metal cleaning and plating processes to remove impurities and ensure a smooth finish. Its ability to sequester metals also makes it useful in agricultural chemicals, where it helps in the delivery of micronutrients to plants.