Formulation Types
Understanding pesticide formulations (EC, WP, SC, CS, granules, aerosols) and selecting appropriate type for application situation and equipment.
Detailed Overview
Formulation is how active ingredient is prepared for application. Main types: (1) EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate): oil-based liquid that mixes with water forming milky emulsion. Pros: good penetration, easy mixing. Cons: odor, staining, phytotoxic to plants. (2) WP (Wettable Powder): dry powder mixed with water forming suspension. Pros: low odor, less phytotoxic. Cons: settles quickly requiring agitation, clogs nozzles, visible residue. (3) SC/Suspension Concentrate: liquid suspension of solid particles. Pros: no mixing, stays suspended better than WP. Cons: must shake before use. (4) CS (Capsule Suspension/Microencapsulated): active ingredient in microscopic capsules. Pros: extended residual, low odor, capsules transfer to insects. Cons: expensive. (5) Aerosol: pressurized ready-to-use. Pros: convenient, reaches cracks. Cons: expensive per ounce, flammable. (6) Granular: dry granules for spreading. Pros: no mixing, outdoor use. Cons: limited penetration. (7) Gel bait: ready-to-use in syringe. Equipment compatibility: power sprayers require liquid formulations; granular spreaders need granules; hand equipment works with most. Tank mixing: check labels for compatibility. Selection factors: application site (food facility = low odor SC), equipment available, target pest, customer sensitivity, cost.
When to Use
Select formulation based on application site, equipment, target pest, and customer preferences. Check label for approved formulations. Consider odor and visibility in occupied spaces.
Required Skill Level
Should only be performed by licensed pest management professionals
Benefits
- Each formulation optimized for specific uses
- Proper selection improves efficacy
- Equipment compatibility ensured
- Customer acceptance improved with right choice
- Cost-effectiveness balanced with performance
Limitations
- Must understand multiple formulation types
- Some formulations incompatible with certain equipment
- Costs vary significantly between types
- Storage and handling differ by formulation
- Wrong formulation reduces effectiveness
Related Concepts
Other product types that may be useful
Reduced-Risk Pesticides
Low-toxicity pesticide products that pose minimal risk to humans, pets, and the environment while remaining effective against target pests.
Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs)
Pesticides that disrupt insect development and reproduction by mimicking or blocking growth hormones - providing long-term population suppression.
Non-Repellent vs Repellent Chemistry
Understanding the difference between insecticides pests cannot detect (non-repellent) versus those they avoid (repellent) - critical for colony elimination.