Simple creation of controlled release formulations of insecticides by a polymeric spray tank additive

The seven main mechanisms whereby sprayed insecticides are rendered biologically inactive are identified. The beneficial diminution of these destructive effects by dissolution of the pesticide in a polymeric matrix is discussed. The problems of the controlled release delivery system so created and insecticide availability therefrom are analyzed in terms of the decreasing concentration of pesticide therein with the passage of time. The theory of a proposed method to circumvent the controlling laws of diffusion by dissolving the polymer in the insecticide, rather than vice versa, is explained and the idea of the addition of a bioinactive co-leaving component is introduced. The practicality of this new concept is demonstrated by the creation of a simple spray tank additive which forms a constant rate, polymeric, controlled release delivery system on the substrate sprayed. The functionality of the spray tank additive is exemplified by combination with three insecticides, methyl parathion, disulfoton and the toxin from Bacillus thuringiensis, and comparative biological testing. (author). 12 refs, 3 tabs