EDTA is the acronym for ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid. This sequestrant can form a very stable chelate with calcium and magnesium. In fact, it is used to avoid the formation and deposit of limescale from water (anti re-depositing effect). For this reason, it is mainly used (approximately 80% of worldwide consumption) as an ingredient in detergents. For example, in detergents for dishwashers, detergents for washing laundry by hand or in a washing machine, in detergents to clean floors, in all detergents where mains water is to be used or dilution of the product since the mains water supply contains calcium and magnesium salts.
The reasons why Fra-Ber has chosen to replace this component are the following:

• It is not easily biodegradable.
• It causes bioaccumulation and consequent intoxication of the marine fauna and food chain.
• It is harmful if swallowed.

NTA is the acronym for nitrilotriacetic acid. This chelate is used in detergents since it has binding properties with calcium and magnesium ions present in water. This function has the same function as that of “builders”. Certain chelates that are relatively strong are also able to break the Surface Calcium Dirt by promoting the detachment phase of the cleaning process.
The reasons why Fra-Ber has chosen to replace this component are the following:

• It is potentially biodegradable, over 70%. However, regulation 648/2004 requires minimum 80%.
• A pure product is strongly suspected of causing cancer.

The phosphorous present in nature under the form of phosphate (phosphoric acid salt) is used since it effectively enhances the efficiency of surfactants, especially in the presence of calcareous water.
The reasons why Fra-Ber has chosen to replace this component are the following:

• It is not biodegradable.
• It causes eutrophication, meaning an uncontrolled development of algae, thus resulting in a decrease in oxygen and lethal effects on marine fauna.
• The authorities often request a limit of phosphorous.

Commercially known as caustic soda, it is a strong mineral base. It is widely used for cleaning, since it is a reagent, and in synthesis in dyes, detergents and soaps.
The reasons why Fra-Ber has chosen to replace this component are the following:

• It has significant corrosive properties. Simple contact with the skin causes severe burns.
• It can cause serious damage to paintwork and delicate parts of the car.