Phosphates, NTA and EDTA are components commonly used in detergents to sequester metal ions such as calcium, magnesium and iron.In particular, NTA, EDTA or polyphosphates such as sodium tripolyphosphate and their salts are used in detergents because of their ability to prevent calcium, magnesium and iron from precipitating and/or solublize preexisting inorganic saltsand/or soils.