Oil dispersion

An OD is a non-aqueous suspension concentrate. It combines a very good biological efficacy with an environmentally friendly formulation. The active ingredient is dispersed in oils or methylated crop oils.

The main features are :

• no aromatic solvent
• non-aqueous formulation
• non-flammable and low volatility
• higher efficiency
• no labelling issue

Why ODs have a bright future

ODs have several advantages over standard formulations.

OD as a replacement for EC

Nowadays, ECs are under a strong regulatory pressure to replace toxic and flammable solvents with less toxic and non-flammable solutions. ODs meet these needs: the oil content gives a favourable eco-toxicological profile, guaranteeing a very high biological efficacy:

• Non-toxic and non-flammable formulations.
• Very high biological efficacy.

OD as a replacement for SC

Suspension concentrates are very safe formulations, but aqueous media are generally not ideal for boosting the pesticide’s biological efficacy. Growers, as standard practice, add tank-mix adjuvants to ensure higher performance. OD, with its oil content, guarantees the best biological results. For water-sensitive active ingredients, OD represents the sole technical solution to liquid formulation.

• Very safe formulations along with high biological performance.
• Ideal for active ingredients not stable in water.

OD as an alternative to WDG

Water-dispersible granules are very safe but quite expensive. Optimal biological efficacy requires adjuvants. OD, with its oil content and better particle size distribution, combines high efficacy with better cost.

• Better efficacy at a lower cost.

Formulation challenges with ODs

OD formulation presents several challenges in production. To obtain a good and stable formulation over time, optimal formulation additives are required in addition to optimum processes. Particular attention must be given to the rheological agent. Its dispersion and activation are key to the stability of the formulation over time.

Some important requirements for additives:

• perfectly dispersible in oil
• no phase separation
• easy milling
• no agglomeration
• excellent oil emulsification
• stable dilution
• good coverage and penetration

For good stability over time, the crucial factor is the rheological agent.

This should meet the following properties:

•  provide the right yield value
• provide the right viscosity
• be homogeneously dispersed and activated in the formulation

Production process must ensure:

• total activation of the rheological agent
• even distribution throughout the whole formulation