Abstract
Organophosphorus complexones represent a new class of multidentate reagents. The paper gives a broad survey of methods for the preparation of aminoalkylphosphonic acids, which include the organophosphorus complexones, and their complexing and biological properties are described. The specific characteristics of these complexones are revealed with respect both to certain elements – beryllium, the rare-earth metals, heavy elements, etc. – and with respect to extending the pH range of complex formation. The mode of reaction of organophosphorus complexones is discussed. The bibliography contains two hundred references.