The hydrolysis of Zectran in buffered and natural waters.

The analyses and rates of hydrolysis of Zectran, 4-dimethylamino-3,5-xylyl methylcarbamate are reported in aqueous media. These rates were measured in phosphate buffered, distilled water and in natural waters where tempteratures of 10 degrees, 20 degrees, and 28 degrees C. and pH values of 5.94, 7.00, and 8.42 were used. Intial concentrations of Zectran exceeded 60 mg/l (0.27 mMol 1(-1), whereas in the natural waters initial concentrations were 30 mg/l (0.135 mMol 1(-1). This study shows that the persistance of Zechtran in natural waters is, in large part, dependent upon the pH value and the temperature.