HEDP also known as editronic acid shows multifunctional properties that includes scale inhibition and corrosion inhibition. It can chelate metal ions like Fe, Cu and Zn and shows good chemical stability under high pH value. Furthermore, it is difficult to hydrolyze and decompose under ordinary light and heat conditions.

HEDP is used in several end use applications that include detergents, water treatment, oilfield, textile, paper and personal care. Furthermore, it can be used for formulating reverse osmosis antiscalants, thermal desalination antiscalants, formulation for treating sterilizers etc. It can be used directly also for such application, singly or in combination with a suitable dispersant.