Applications of Emulsifiers and Agents in Agrochemical
1. Emulsifier EL Series
In emulsifiable concentrates (e.g., DDVP EC, malathion EC), it aids the active ingredient (highly hydrophobic) in forming a uniform emulsion with the solvent and water, preventing separation.
In microemulsions (e.g., imidacloprid ME), it synergizes with the solvent to enhance the dispersion of the active ingredient.
When applying insecticides/fungicides via foliar spray, ensure emulsion stability so the spray solution does not rapidly separate or precipitate upon contact with leaves.
2. Emulsifier HEL Series
In emulsifiable concentrates (e.g., propiconazole EW), provides long-term storage stability and prevents crystallization at elevated temperatures.
In suspension concentrates (e.g., carbendazim SC, imidacloprid SC), it aids in uniform dispersion of solid active ingredients and prevents settling.
In herbicides (e.g., glyphosate SC), it improves particle dispersibility and prevents spray nozzle clogging.
3. Emulsifier Span Series
In emulsifiable concentrates (such as avermectin EC, chlorpyrifos EC), HLB values are adjusted by blending with Tween to ensure emulsion stability.
In oil-based microemulsions (e.g., imidacloprid ME), it enhances emulsification capacity and accelerates pesticide dispersion in water.
In foliar herbicides (e.g., atrazine), it functions as a wetting agent to improve spray spreadability on leaves.
4. PEG
As a film-forming agent in seed coatings (e.g., imidacloprid seed coatings) to enhance coating uniformity and adhesion.
As a humectant in foliar fertilizers or micronutrient formulations to prolong nutrient absorption time on leaf surfaces.
As a solubilizing agent in water-soluble powders (SP) to improve solubility of partially insoluble components.
5. Additive AC-1800 series
In suspension concentrates (e.g., pyraclostrobin SC), prevents particle agglomeration and sedimentation, ensuring uniform dispersion even after prolonged storage.
In water-dispersible granules (e.g., chlorothalonil WDG), enhances rapid wetting and disintegration of granules.
Prevents formulation separation or settling during transportation and storage due to temperature fluctuations.
6. Additive AC-1200 series
In dry flowable formulations (DF, e.g., pyraclostrobin DF), it acts as a dispersant to help particles rapidly disintegrate into fine particles upon contact with water.
In water-dispersible granules (WDG), it improves wettability, enabling particles to swell and disperse quickly upon contact with water without clumping.
In herbicide formulations (e.g., glyphosate WDG), it enhances spray uniformity and reduces sprayer clogging.
7. Propylene Glycol Block Polyether
As an antifreeze agent in suspension concentrates (e.g., imidacloprid SC), it prevents freezing and crystallization at low temperatures.
As a solubilizer in water-dispersible emulsions (e.g., azoxystrobin EW), it stabilizes the emulsion structure.
In oil-based pesticide formulations, it prevents phase separation, enhances temperature tolerance, and improves storage stability.
8. Polyethylene Glycol Oleate
As an emulsifier in emulsifiable concentrates (e.g., thiophanate-methyl EC), it ensures a fine and stable emulsion after dilution.
As a wetting agent in foliar-applied fungicides/insecticides, it enables more uniform coverage of the crop foliage, enhancing residual efficacy.
In emulsifiable concentrates (EW), it improves compatibility between the oil and water phases, reducing separation.
