The present invention recites a composition comprising a first compound and a second compound. The first compound has the chemical formula ( 1a), wherein m, n and o are independently from each other equal to 2 or 3; wherein p is equal to 1 or 2; R being a chemical group with the chemical formula (1a'), wherein q is equal to 1, 2 or 3; wherein R.sub.1, R.sub.2 and R.sub.3 are independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and an organic group. The second compound has the chemical formula (1c). Metal ions can be present in the solution or in an external medium being contacted with the solution. The present invention can be used for cleaning a semiconductor substrate. ##STR00001##