Description
Oil-based formulations (EC)
First, let’s examine oil-based formulations.
Emulsifiable concentrates (EC) are concentrated oil
solutions combined with an emulsifier. The emulsifier is a
detergent-like material that makes the oil mix in a water
solution for spraying. When ECs are mixed with water,
the emulsifier causes the oil to disperse evenly through
the water. The solution will turn to a milky-white color.
However, ECs will eventually settle out of suspension or
separate and should be applied immediately after mixing or
be constantly agitated. EC formulations are typically more
expensive to produce and the solvents may increase dermal
toxicity to the applicator in it’s liquid form; personal
protection should be worn as with all pesticides. ECs provide
a longer residual than soluble concentrates (see below) due to
reduced photo degradation (breaking down of pesticides by light).
Oil-based formulations also include products that can be
used in fogging machines for mosquito and fly abatement
programs.
Water-based formulations (SC)
Water soluble concentrates, also called solutions (S) or
suspension concentrates (SC), are mixed with a water
based matrix and are readily mixed with water to form a
liquid spray. SC formulations should not settle
out of suspension. These formulations can look like ECs in
the undiluted form but do not form a milky solution when
mixed with water
Ultimately, what determines the formulation used is the
characteristics of the active ingredient or the preference of
the applicator.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.