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

• Inhibition

• Water treatment

Related compounds

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

• Etidronic acid, , also a chelating agent

• Glyphosate, , a herbicide

References