AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

Functional Chemicals

AkzoNobel Product Stewardship Team







Product Stewardship
Summary


Chelates: DTPA








AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

2

Table of Contents
Introduction: .......................................................................................................................................... 3
Purpose and Scope .............................................................................................................................. 3
AkzoNobel Chelates-DTPA ................................................................................................................... 3
Category Description: ........................................................................................................................... 3
Uses applications, functions: ............................................................................................................ 4
Physical/chemical properties:............................................................................................................... 4
Physical Appearance ............................................................................................................................ 4
Special Considerations: ........................................................................................................................ 4
Fire/Explosion ...................................................................................................................................... 4
Incompatibilities .................................................................................................................................. 5
Decomposition .................................................................................................................................... 5
Health Effects: ....................................................................................................................................... 5
Routes of Exposure .............................................................................................................................. 5
Health hazards ..................................................................................................................................... 5
Toxicity ................................................................................................................................................ 5
Environmental Effects: .......................................................................................................................... 5
Exposure - exposure potenti al: ............................................................................................................. 6
Acute Exposure .................................................................................................................................... 6
Chronic Exposure ................................................................................................................................. 6
Regulatory Information: ........................................................................................................................ 6
Transport ............................................................................................................................................. 6
Worker Safety...................................................................................................................................... 6
Use and Disposal ................................................................................................................................. 6
Risk Management recommended measures: .................................................................................... 7
Engineering Controls ............................................................................................................................... 7
Personal Protective Equipment ................................................................................................................ 7
Safety Training ........................................................................................................................................ 7
References: ............................................................................................................................................ 7
Revision History: ................................................................................................................................... 8


AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

3

Introduction:
Purpose and Scope:
Akzo Nobel Functional Chemicals places high value on health, safety and the environment as an
essential part of its business policy. A key aspect of this is the cradle-to-cradle management of all
products to ensure minimum impact on health, safety and the environment, a process known as Product
Stewardship.

To help us achieve the goals of our Product Stewardship initiative, we have prepared informative
summaries of our products organized by chemical or functional category. We hope that you will find that
they provide a clear and concise description of the chemicals in our products, the potential hazards and
the potential for human or environmental exposure to the chemical in all phases of its life cycle. More
importantly, we hope you will review the management practices that we have implemented to minimize
human and environmental risk from these hazards and exposures.


AkzoNobel Chelates DTPA:

Dissolvineis the AkzoNobel brand name for products known as chelates, chemicals that control the
reactivity and properties of metal ions. Chelates seize a metal ion and control it, which can make it very
difficult for another substance to react with the metal ion. Chelates form strong, water-soluble complexes
that prevent undesirable precipitation, dissolve scale deposits and optimize oxidation processes. Our
Dissolvinechelate product range includes chelating agents that bind and control metal ions, as well as
metal chelates that introduce the right form of metal ions into a product or process.
DTPA (Diethylene Triamino Penta Acetic acid) is another chelating agent important in controlling metal
catalyzed reactions. DTPA is our strongest chelate and is recommended when a stronger chelating
agent is needed, such as during peroxide bleaching of pulp, industrial cleaning, and laundry applications.

DTPA is especially suitable for descaling oilfield applications. The formation of scale is a huge problem in
the oil industry. Scale, in certain applications is described as an unwanted solid layer of insoluble metal
salts that is formed on the surface of the solid/liquid interface. These scales consist of compounds such
as CaCO
3
, Ca-, Ba- or SrSO
4
, and sulfide scales. DTPA overcomes the time consuming drawbacks of
acid or caustic treatments, and can remove unwanted scale fast while minimizing risk to the plant,
equipment, and personnel.

DTPA also has applications in the cosmetic industry. DTPA helps prevent the heavy metal ions that
normally catalyze the degradation of ingredients used in personal care products.


Category Description:
Dissolvinechelating agents combine amine and carboxylic acid chemistry in one molecule. This
powerful chemical combination yields aminopolycarboxylates (APCs), which form more stable complexes
with metal ions compared to other types of chelating agents. They are stable over a wider range of
temperatures and pH values, have a stronger affinity for metals and are significantly more efficient.
AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

4

DTPA (Diethylene Triamino Penta Acetic acid) is a polyamino carboxylic acid consisting of a
diethylenetriamine backbone with five carboxylmethyl groups. As a chelating agent, DTPA wraps around
a metal ion by forming up to eight bonds.
Uses applicati ons, functions:
The biggest use of DTPA is in laundry applications. DTPA is used to stabilize alternative bleaches in
laundry detergent applications.
DTPA is used in the pulp and paper industry. Metal ions catalyze the decomposition of bleaching agents
(e.g. peroxide, ozone and hydrosulfite) and can lead to brightness reversion of pulp and paper. DTPA
chelating agents are used to remove and deactivate these metal ions.
DTPA chelating agents are widely used in various oilfield applications like stimulation, completion,
cementing and enhanced oil recovery to re-dissolve scales such as SrSo
4
, BaSO
4
, and CaCO
3
. In further
applications, they can prevent iron precipitation during acidizing and fracturing processes. BaSO
4
scale is
extremely insoluble and cant be easily removed even by strong acids due to its thermodynamic stability.
In the oilfield, BaSO
4
forms a layer inside the oil wells and will eventually block the pipe. Timely removal
of the scale is therefore crucial. DTPA removes these scales effectively and timely without halting
production for long periods of time. DTPA chelates are also the preferred method of removing scale
when SrSO
4
and BaSO
4
are combined.
DTPA plays an important role in the cosmetic industry and is used as stabilizers in cosmetics. This is
achieved by chelating the metals. In the chelated form metals cant form all the unwanted precipitates,
nor catalyze degradation reactions of cosmetic ingredients like fragrances, lotions, and oils. DTPA
chelating agents deactivate the undesirable metal ions, maintaining quality and improving shelf life.

Physical /chemical properti es:
Physical Appearance:
DTPAs have similar and different physical and chemical properties. Their physical appearance varies
from a clear pale and light yellow liquid with a slight ammonia odor, to an odorless free-flowing white and
off-white powder at 25C, to an odorless yellow-green powder, to a red-brown liquid with a slight
ammonia and odorless scent. Please refer to specific chemical MSDS for in-depth physical/chemical
properties for DTPA.


Special Considerations:
Fire/Explosion:
DTPA is not defined as flammable or combustible. However, potential for dust explosion may exist.
Depending on conditions, dusts may be sensitive to static discharge. Avoid possibility of dry powder with
friction causing static electricity in the presence of flammables.



AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

5

Incompatibilities:
This product is incompatible with strong oxidizers. Aqueous solution in contact with aluminum evolves
hydrogen. Avoid contact with aluminum, zinc, copper, copper alloys and nickel. Do not expose product
to elevated temperatures (above 392F/200C and 212F/100C for some products) for extended periods
of time. For some DTPA products, product layer on hot surface might cause glowing or autoignition.
Please refer to product specific MSDS for in-detail information pertaining to certain products.



Decomposition:
Under fire conditions the product may support combustion and decomposes to give off carbon oxide
fumes (CO, CO
2
), nitrogen oxides, metal oxide fumes and water vapor.


Health effects:
Routes of Exposure:
Skin contact, eye contact, and inhalation are the primary routes of exposure.


Health hazards:
Eye contact may cause slight irritation. Brief skin contact is not expected to cause irritation, but
prolonged contact may. Exposure to an excessive concentration of dust, vapor, mist, or aerosol through
inhalation, may cause respiratory tract discomfort and/or mild irritation and may irritate the mucous
membrane. Exposure to dust at excessive concentrations may cause symptoms of bronchitis. DTPA has
low order of acute toxicity if ingested for some products and may cause gastrointestinal, mouth, and
throat irritation with nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea with other products. Please consult product specific
MSDS for more details on DTPA.

Toxicity:
Some DTPA products contain impurities of (Trisodium NTA) which has been shown to cause kidney
damage, cancer, and affect a developing fetus based on animal studies. Zinc deficiency may be
aggravated by systemic exposure to DTPA and its salts. The IARC, NTP, ACGIH, and OSHA do not
classify this material as a carcinogen or suspect carcinogen.


Envi ronmental effects:

This product is not expected to be harmful to aquatic life. DTPA is not expected to enter the atmosphere
significantly due to its high water solubility and therefore, bioaccumulation is not expected. DTPA is not
readily biodegradable.




AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

6

Exposure exposure potential:

Acute Exposures:
Safe handling of DTPA and its solutions is a high priority at all times. While DTPA products are stored,
handled, and transported under strictly controlled guidelines, an accidental exposure to DTPA may occur.


Proper engineering controls and personal protective equipment will minimize the potential for human
exposure. See the section Risk management recommended measures below.


Chronic Exposures:
According to supporting data, chronic ingestion of NTA (an impurity) in rats and mice has led to kidney
and bladder damage and may lead to cancer. Repeated inhalation of Trisodium NTA caused salivation,
nose, and eye irritation in rats. Repeated or prolonged contact may cause skin irritation. Most DTPA
substances are considered hazardous by the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard with the exception
of a few that are not.


Regulatory information:

Transport:
DTPA is not regulated as a hazardous material as defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation for
land shipments. For air and water shipments, DTPA is classified as a corrosive liquid (basic) and is
identified as UN3267 and UN1760 for other corrosive liquids. Corrosive labels are required for air and
water transport for these products.


Worker Safety:
Occupational Exposure Limits have been established by various national and international organizations
for the safe handling of some DTPAs in the workplace. Proper engineering controls, personal protective
equipment and workplace exposure monitoring must be followed to adhere to these standards.


Use and Disposal:
The characteristic of corrosivity per RCRA would be exhibited by unused product if it becomes a waste
material. For some DTPA products, in its unused condition, the product is not considered to be a RCRA-
defined hazardous waste by characteristics or listing. Containers should be cleaned of residual product
before disposal or return. The use and disposal of DTPA are subject to various national and international
laws and regulations. In the U.S., they are subject to TSCA regulation and in the EU are subject to the
recently adopted REACH regulations.



AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

7

Risk management recommended measures:

Engineering Controls:
Special ventilation is usually not required under normal use conditions. However, ensure that existing
ventilation is sufficient to prevent the circulation and/or accumulation of vapor/dust in the air and to
prevent formation of explosive air-dust mixture. Use local mechanical exhaust ventilation at sources of air
contamination such as open process equipment. Please consult the MSDS, PDS, technical bulletins and
your AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals representative for specific control measures to be taken.

Personal Protective Equipment:
Recommendations include a NIOSH-approved organic vapor respirator with dust, mist, and fume filters to
reduce potential for inhalation exposure. If higher levels of exposure necessitate a higher level of
protection, use a NIOSH-approved, positive-pressure, pressure-demand, air-supplied respirator.
Replace respirator cartridges or canisters frequently. In addition, protective clothing, boots, and 100%
Viton or Nitile gloves are recommended. Chemical goggles and/or face shield should also be worn. A
pair of indirect vented dust-tight goggles should be worn when dealing with potential dust exposure. Eye
wash stations should readily available in case of an accidental exposure. Please consult the MSDS, PDS,
technical bulletins, and your AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals representative for specific protective
equipment measures to be taken.


Safety Training:
AkzoNobel believes Health & Safety are crucial to the quality of operations and often, improving
maintenance is the key. We determine the actions needed to control risky situations. This method
ensures an integrated approach that saves costs and minimizes incidents in the long term. Our
proven success in the safe handling of DTPA is due to our long-term commitment to safety. We always
place safety as our top priority.

Sharing our experiences in safety is one of the most important resources we offer. Through our safety
programs we provide expert advice on the handling of these materials including: classroom review of
safety and handling of DTPA, consultation of DTPA facility and design, demonstrations on the safe use,
handling and control of DTPA, and on-site assistance and advice regarding procedures.

Our Safety Research Laboratory in Deventer, the Netherlands, is heavily involved in R&D, ensuring the
development of safe products and processes. Safety studies are carried out in order to ensure a high
level of safety in manufacturing, handling and transport of dangerous substances.

Please contact us if you are interested in such services. Safety and technical support is mainly provided
from our laboratory in Deventer, NL.

References:

AkzoNobel Chelate Chemicals Product Material Safety Data Sheets various

AkzoNobel Chelate Chemicals Product Data Sheets various
AkzoNobel Functional Chemicals Product Stewardship Summary Chelates: DTPA

8


AkzoNobel Chelate Chemicals Technical Brochure and Leaflets various


Revisi on History:
Revision 0 19 August 2011