Insecticide Formulations Quiz

Insecticide Formulations

• Oil-in-Emulsion (EW) products are prepared by dissolving the active ingredient (AI) in oil, which is then emulsified into water.

  • EWs require emulsifiers, surface-active agents, and additional formulants to enhance emulsion stability and biological activity.
  • The high concentration of AI (up to 90%) leads to low material usage.

• Ultra-low-volume (ULV) liquids are designed for application without dilution.

  • They are easy to transport and use.
  • Besides the AI and a solvent system, ULVs usually contain surface-active agents and other materials to enhance biological activity.

• Suspoemulsion (SE) consists of solid particles or polymer capsules suspended in an emulsion system.

  • This formulation allows for multiple active ingredients to be included in microcapsules, crystalline solid particles, or the emulsion itself.

• Gelatinized Fluids (GW) differ from other liquid formulations by having a higher viscosity.

  • They often contain the active ingredient(s) in a micro-encapsulated or dissolved form.

Sources of Insecticides

• Pyrethroids: Insecticides derived from flowering plants belonging to the genus Chrysanthemum, Family Asteraceae.
  • Natural pyrethroids are extracted from two species, C.cinerafolium and C.coccineum, which contain high concentrations of the insecticidal metabolite pyrethrin.
  • Synthetic pyrethroids are based on the pyrethrum compounds and consist of six esters.

Insecticide Production

• Process: The development and production of pesticides typically involves a rigorous testing and evaluation phase that can take 5-10 years.
  • The production process requires approval from regulatory agencies (e.g., EPA, Philippines).
  • Active ingredients must undergo comprehensive ecological and toxicological studies
• Cost:
  • In Europe, the development of a new insecticide can require 11 years and approximately €200 million in investment.

Formulants

• Adjuvant: Non-toxic material added to a pesticide formulation to enhance its efficacy.
  • May be incorporated into the formulation or applied as a separate spray mixture.
• Synergist: A substance with little to no activity on its own but enhances the potency or activity of the active ingredient when added.
• Preservatives: Substances added to slow down the decomposition of the active ingredient and extend the shelf life of the product.
• Perfumes: Provide a pleasant odor to the pesticide, but they may not always be included.
• Coloring materials: Help differentiate between different pesticides and formulations, but they may not always be included.

Types of Insecticide Formulations

Group 1: Concentrates for Dilution with Water

• EC: Emulsifiable Concentrate
• SC: Suspension Concentrate
• CG: Encapsulated Granule
• SC: Soluble Concentrate
• WP: Wettable Powder
• WG: Water-Dispersible Granule
• DC: Dispersible Concentrate

Group 2: Concentrates for Dilution with Oil

• OL: Oil Miscible Liquid
• OF: Oil Flowable Concentrate
• OP: Oil Dispersible Powder

Group 3: Formulations Applied Undiluted

• GR: Granules
• DP: Dustable Powder
• UL: Ultra Low Volume (ULV)
• ED: Electro-Chargeable Liquid

Factors Determining Formulation of Insecticides

• Target pest: The type of pest being controlled is crucial for selecting the appropriate formulation.
• Application method: The method of application (e.g., spraying, dusting, granules) influences the choice of formulation.
• Environmental conditions: Factors like temperature, humidity, and wind can affect the effectiveness and fate of the pesticide in the environment.
• Crop or area treated: The type of crop or area being treated can influence the ideal formulation to avoid damage or residues.
• Toxicity to humans and animals: The safety profile of the pesticide and its potential impact on humans and non-target organisms must be considered.
• Carrier: The material that helps distribute the active ingredient throughout the environment, usually water, oil, or a solid carrier like clay.

Conventional Formulations: Aerosol and Fumigants

• Aerosols (A): Aerosol formulations contain one or more low-content active ingredients suspended in a solvent.
  • Types: Sealed containers and aerosol generators that release the active ingredient through pressurized systems, creating fine droplets.
• Fumigants: Fumigants are formulations that release poisonous gases when applied.
  • They are typically used to control pests in enclosed spaces like buildings or warehouses.