Wettable powder is a type of pesticide formulation made from an inert carrier and specific additives, which are thoroughly mixed and ground to achieve a desired particle size. Although many people may not be familiar with wettable powders, they are widely used in agriculture due to their effectiveness and safety. According to the **Pesticide Network**, wettable powders resemble regular powder in appearance but contain ingredients like wetting agents and dispersants that allow them to mix well with water, forming a stable suspension suitable for spraying.
Compared to emulsifiable concentrates, wettable powders are more cost-effective and can be packaged in paper or plastic bags, making storage and transportation easier and safer. One of the major advantages is that they do not contain solvents or emulsifiers, which makes them environmentally friendly and less likely to cause phytotoxicity to crops. This makes them ideal for use on fruit crops before bagging, as they avoid the risk of organic solvent damage to the fruit surface.
Common examples of wettable powders include 10% imidacloprid, 25% chlorpyrifos, and 70% thiophanate-methyl. These formulations are insoluble in water but can be easily suspended when mixed with it. They are typically high in active ingredient content, though some dust may be generated during processing. The original materials used in wettable powders are often poorly soluble in common organic solvents, which helps maintain stability.
The suspensibility of a wettable powder should be above 70%, indicating good quality. When dissolved in water, the pH of the product may vary depending on the formulation, but most are slightly acidic or neutral. Wettable powders usually have low moisture content—less than 3%—which contributes to better stability and shelf life.
A common issue reported by agricultural workers is poor suspension rate. If a wettable powder mixes well with water and remains suspended without settling, it is considered high quality. Poor-quality products may lead to clogging in sprayers and could potentially harm crops. To improve the suspension rate, additives such as dispersants, wetting agents, and stabilizers like sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate are often included.
Understanding the properties of wettable powders is essential for their proper and safe application. By doing so, farmers can maximize the effectiveness of pesticides while minimizing risks to both crops and the environment. As part of the **pesticide** industry, wettable powders continue to play a vital role in modern agricultural practices.
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