Suspension Concentrates (SC) | Dispersing Agents & Adjuvants
In SC formulations the active ingredient content can generally be between 10-70 wt %. The pesticide is present as water-insoluble solid particles. The particle size is also dependent on the fabrication method (i.e., type of mill, milling time). Together with anionic/non-ionic wetting and dispersing agents a suspension is formed.
Soluble Concentrates (SL) | Built in Solution
In SL formulations active ingredient contents between 10 – 50 % can generally be realized.
The pesticide is dissolved in water or a water-soluble organic solvent. To enhance the efficiency and efficacy of the spray mixture, penetration enhancers and wetting agents are often included. Also, water-insoluble co-formulants might be added, for example, anti-foam agents.
Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC) | Emulsifiers & Adjuvants
In EC formulations active ingredient contents between 0.1 – 40 % can generally be realized, sometimes even up to 70%. The pesticide is dissolved in a water-insoluble organic solvent. Together with emulsifying agents, the solution will form an emulsion when mixed with water.
Oil Dispersion (OD) | Emulsifiers & Adjuvants
For an OD formulation, the pesticide is suspended in a water-insoluble organic solvent. Together with emulsifying agents, the solution will form a dispersion when mixed with water.
Wettable Powders (WP) and Water Dispersible/Wettable Granules (WDG/WG) | Dispersing Agents
In wettable powder formulations (WP) the solid active is ground into fine particles. When mixed with water to create the spray mix, the WP must be wetted easily and suspend readily. This is achieved by adding appropriate adjuvants during the WP preparation process.
In water dispersible granule formulations (WDG) the solid active is ground into fine particles and dried or extruded into granules. The dry formulation should be not too brittle in order to avoid the formation of dust. When mixed with water to create the spray mix, the WDG must spontaneously disperse without excessive foam formation. These requirements are achieved by adding appropriate adjuvants during the WDG preparation process.
Agrochemical wetting agents (EO/PO Surfactants) | Emulsifiers & Wetting Agents
Alcohol alkoxylates are commonly used as emulsifiers and wetting agents in agrochemical formulations. They are biodegradable and eco-friendly replacements for alkylphenol ethoxylates, when it comes to stabilizing a formulation or enhancing the blooming of the spray mixture.