Used as a chelating agent in detergents and cleaning products to bind metal ions like calcium and magnesium, improving cleaning efficiency in hard water. Helps prevent discoloration and fabric graying by sequestering metal ions that can catalyze oxidation. Applied in industrial water treatment to control metal ion activity and reduce scale formation. Used in pulp and paper production to stabilize bleaching processes by deactivating transition metals. Also found in some cosmetic and personal care formulations to enhance product stability by preventing metal-induced degradation. Replaces polyphosphates in environmentally sensitive applications due to better biodegradability under aerobic conditions.