Abstract |
The field and laboratory investigations described in this report were designed to evaluate, the potential impact of nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA) on lakes and on eutrophication in general. The experiments were specifically designed to determine the effect of NTA and its ultimate potential breakdown products, carbon and nitrogen, on algal growth and primary productivity as well as its effect on lake sediment-water interactions. Since NTA is considered a prime replacement for sodium tripolyphosphate in synthetic detergent formulations, the effect of phosphorus was included in the studies. Lakes and lake waters were selected for study on the basis of trophic levels, ranging from ultra-oligotrophic to highly eutrophic; differences in water quality and chemistry; and location in different geographic areas. |