This chemical is primarily used as a chelating agent in various industrial and laboratory applications. It effectively binds with metal ions, making it valuable in processes like water treatment, where it helps to control metal ion concentrations and prevent scaling. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is utilized in the formulation of certain drugs to enhance stability and bioavailability by sequestering metal impurities. Additionally, it finds use in analytical chemistry as a complexing agent for metal ion detection and separation. Its ability to form stable complexes with metals also makes it suitable for use in cleaning products and detergents, where it aids in removing metal stains and improving product performance.