Chelates

Use of Chelates:-

> Chelated micronutrients are fertilizers where the micronutrient ion (for example Fe or iron) is surrounded by a larger molecule called a chelator. 

> Chelator can be natural or synthetic chemicals. These compounds combined with a micronutrient forms a chelated micronutrient.

> Ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) is the most common chelating agent found in synthetic fertilizers. 

> Like other synthetic chelates, EDTA is an alien compound to the plant and is therefore not absorbed by the plant.

> Chelated trace elements help you achieve your production goals by providing the optimum nutrient availability. 

> The chelating process, with the assistance of chemical EDTA, forms a protective ring around the nutrient, which protects it from being tied up in the soil or by other nutrients.

> The chelating agents keep the metals soluble in the soil and are taken up by the plants with the metals. The two components may be separated in the roots but both can be transported to leaves.

> Examples:-

i. Arsenic Chelators:- Dimercaprol.

ii. Copper Chelators (for Wilson Disease):- Dimercaprol. Penicillamine. Trientine.

iii. Iron Chelators:- Deferasirox. Deferiprone. Deferoxamine.

iv. Lead Chelators:- Dimercaprol. EDTA.

v. Mercury Chelators:- Dimercaprol.