摘要 |
Chelants represented by formula (Ib) are determined to be biodegradable wh en Distance A is from 3.8 .times. 10 -10 to 4.6 .times. 10 -10m, Distance B is from 5.1 .times. 10 -10 to 5.9 .times. 10 -10m, and Distance C is from 4.3 to 6.7 .times. 10 -10m. Compounds meeting these criteria are referred to as compounds of Formula 2. In addition to methods o f analysis and computer systems therefor, the invention includes a method of chelating a metal ion to form a chelate and biodegrading the chelate comprising step (a) contacting the metal ion with at least one compound of Formula 2 to form a chelate and (b) contacting the resultant chelate or chelant with microbes of the type specified in ASTM 2667-89, ISO 5815 or effective enzymes thereof under conditions and for a time sufficient for biodegradation wherein either (i) the chelate formed in step (a) is formed i n a process of removing deposits, scale, or nut; cleaning or washing, controlling metal initiated or catalyzed oxidation or deterioration including spoilage, discoloration, or rancidification; textile treatment; paper making; stabilization of polymers or phosphates; or petroleum drilling, production or recovery; or (ii) the chelate formed in step (a) is before step (b) used as a redox catalyst, in a process of photographic bleaching, bleach-fixing o r developing; in electroless deposition or plating; in removing acid or oxide gases including H2S, NO x, SO x, CO and CO2; or in providing agricultural nutrients.
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