ATMP

ATMP or aminotris(methylenephosphonic acid) is a phosphonic acid with chemical formula N(CH₂PO₃H₂)₃. It is a colorless solid. Its conjugate bases, such as [N(CH₂PO₃H)₃]^3-, have chelating properties.

ATMP can be synthesized from the Mannich-type reaction of ammonia, formaldehyde, and phosphorous acid, in a manner similar to the Kabachnik–Fields reaction.

Properties

ATMP has good antiscale performance. It is related structurally to nitrilotriacetic acid.

Applications

• Detergents and cleaning agents
• Fouling
• Water treatment

Related compounds

• (1-Aminoethylidene)bisphosphonic acid, , also a chelating agent
• Etidronic acid, , also a chelating agent
• Glyphosate, , a herbicide

References