Household Products

1) Select two household products such as laundry soap, hand soap, dishwashing detergent, TSP etc. that
contain a significant amount of phosphate.
2) Discuss the chemical formulations (contents) and show chemical structures of the major compounds
found in these products. In what chemical form is the phosphate that is found in these products?
3) Write a brief history of how and when these products were made. Which companies produce these
products?
4) How do they work? Be specific – are they acids, bases, surfactants, water softeners etc?
5) Discuss the environmental problems with phosphate containing products.
6) Why are phosphates used in these products?
7) Discuss wastewater treatment plants, farms and fertilizers, and the problem with
phosphate run-off into natural waters.
8) Do you use phosphate containing household products? If so, will you continue to use these
products or will you try and find an alternative?