Dow agricultural

formulations guide
 Contents
Developing suitable formulations for agrochemicals Description...................................................................... 45
and biocontrol ......................................................................... 7 Benefits........................................................................... 45
Formulation types for dilution in water............................ 11 Criteria for an SL formulation.......................................... 45
Special solid formulation types....................................... 11 Components used in an SL formulation......................... 45
Formulations for dilution in organic solvents.................. 12 How to develop an SL formulation.................................. 45
Formulations for direct application................................. 12
Rainfastness.................................................................... 12 WG Water dispersible granule...............................................49
Special formulation types................................................ 12 Description......................................................................49
Adjuvants for agrochemicals........................................... 12 Benefits...........................................................................49
Criteria for a WG formulation..........................................49
SC Suspension concentrate.................................................. 11 Components used in a WG formulation.......................... 49
Description...................................................................... 11 How to develop a WG formulation.................................. 49
Benefits........................................................................... 11
Criteria for an SC formulation......................................... 11 SP Water soluble powder...................................................... 55
Components used in an SC formulation......................... 11 Description...................................................................... 55
How to develop an SC formulation................................. 11 Benefits........................................................................... 55
Criteria for an SP formulation.......................................... 55
EC Emulsifiable concentrate.................................................. 17 Components used in an SP formulation......................... 55
Description...................................................................... 17 How to develop an SP formulation................................. 55
Benefits........................................................................... 17
Criteria for an EC formulation.......................................... 17 WP Wettable powder.............................................................59
Components used in an EC formulation......................... 17 Description......................................................................59
How to develop an EC formulation................................. 17 Benefits...........................................................................59
Criteria for an WP formulation.........................................59
CS Capsule suspension.........................................................23 Components used in an WP formulation........................ 59
Description......................................................................23 How to develop an WP formulation................................ 59
Benefits...........................................................................23
Criteria for a CS formulation.......................................... 23 OD Oil dispersion...................................................................63
Components used in a CS Formulation......................... 23 Description......................................................................63
How to develop an CS Formulation................................ 24 Benefits...........................................................................63
Criteria for an OD formulation.........................................63
ME Micro-emulsion................................................................ 27 Components of an OD formulation................................. 63
Description...................................................................... 27 How to develop an OD formulation................................. 63
Benefits........................................................................... 27
Criteria for an ME formulation......................................... 27 Formulation charts................................................................. 67
Components used in an ME formulation........................ 27 Building formulas that work............................................ 67
How to develop an ME Formulation................................28 Nonionic surfactants.......................................................68
Nonionic silicone polyether surfactants
EW Emulsion: Oil in water......................................................33 or “superwetters”............................................................ 72
Description......................................................................33 Ionic surfactants.............................................................. 72
Benefits...........................................................................33 Oxygenated solvents...................................................... 73
Criteria for an EW formulation.........................................33 Glycol ethers................................................................... 74
Components used in an EW formulation........................33 Amines............................................................................ 75
How to develop an EW formulation................................ 34 Chelants.......................................................................... 75
Propylene oxide and polyglycols....................................76
SE Suspo-emulsion...............................................................39 Isocyanates.....................................................................76
Description......................................................................39 Silicone antifoams........................................................... 77
Benefits...........................................................................39
Criteria for an SE formulation..........................................39 Definitions of pesticide formulation types..............................78
Components used in an SE formulation.........................39 Additional product one-pagers..............................................86
How to develop an SE formulation.................................40

SL Soluble concentrate.......................................................... 45

2
Developing
suitable
formulations for
agrochemicals
and biocontrol

3
 Developing suitable formulations for
agrochemicals and biocontrol
Meet the growing challenges of today’s agricultural With a diverse portfolio of products, including wetting
formulation requirements with Dow. agents, dispersants, foam control, adjuvants, emulsifiers,
neutralizers, solvents, chelating agents and amines, our
We offer:
technologies enable formulations that offer an improved
• In-depth product performance expertise environmental profile with continued investments on research
• A diverse portfolio of products and innovation.
• Customized solutions
Together, with our customers and collaboration partners – and
• Global supply capabilities
guided by our 2025 Sustainability Goals – we are focusing
Connecting with formulators is a priority for us to follow the our sustainability efforts on climate protection and resource
developments in the agrichemical industry to effectively efficiency initiatives while advancing a circular economy and
understand and meet its specific needs. Our broad offer of safer materials offering. We aim to enhance the efficiency
solutions ranges from chemical intermediates and neutralizing of your formulations with products which have a favorable
agents for the production of active ingredients (AIs), to environmental profile, low toxicity, biodegradability and a
solubilization and compatibility products for formulations to reduced footprint.
control release.
To receive additional information on Dow products,
Precision application and increased product shelf are innovations, technologies and other services, contact
parameters that we set out to help our customers address your Dow representative or visit www.dow.com.
sustainability challenges and help reduce our own operational
and supply chain footprint.

4
 SC
Suspension
concentrate

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017). 5
 SC Suspension concentrate

Description This type of formula typically contains:

According to CropLife International, a suspension concentrate
Al 200-600 g/l
(SC) is “a stable suspension of active ingredient(s) with water
as the fluid, intended for dilution with water before use.”(1) An Wetting agent 5-20 g/l
SC, also known as a “flowable,” is a dispersion of an active Dispersant 20-60 g/l
ingredient (AI) in a solid and insoluble form.
Antifreeze 50-80 g/l
It is commonly recommended that a minimum of 70 percent Antifoam 1-20 g/l
suspensibility of the AI must be attained by an SC formulation.
Suspensibility can be measured according to Collaborative Rheology modifier 1-10 g/l
International Pesticides Analytical Council (CIPAC) MT 184, Water qs-1 l
where the AI shall be in suspension in a specified water
composition after a specified time at a specified temperature. How to develop a SC formulation
The exception is for formulations with concentrations equal to
Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
or in excess of 800 g/l of sulfur, which typically requires at least
the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure
60 percent suspensibility. The formulation usually achieves a
that it is compatible with the type of formulation chosen.
minimum of 98 percent pass through a wet sieve screen of 75
Start with a recipe that yields about 300 ml of formulation,
μm, in addition to a specified foam level.
a quantity that is sufficient to conduct initial tests. After
Benefits determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration of
the other components is estimated in accordance with the
• Lower toxicity, lower volatile organic content (VOC)
characteristics of the final formula desired.
and lower flammability
• High concentration of AIs Formula: SC (suspension concentrate)
• Easy handling by farmers
• Good efficiency in the field

Criteria for an SC formulation

While the AIs used in SC formulations are solid, not all solids
may be used to formulate an SC. In order to develop a good
SC, the following requirements are typically considered
regarding the AI:
• Must be hydrolytically stable
• Have a melting point of over 70°C
• Have solubility below 50 ppm in water
• Have a stable crystal morphology
• Have high hardness

Components used in an SC formulation

During the formulation process, there is a need for the
presence of a wetting agent so that the particles of the AI are
incorporated in the water and also to help with the milling SC: A suspension of insoluble solid AI(s) with water as the liquid
process. Addition of a dispersant will maintain the particles media and inert formulation components.
apart from one another and help with the stability of the
finished product. During milling, foam can be generated. The
use of an anti-foaming agent or a low foaming surfactant is
recommended to minimize foam formation. To help with the
shelf life stability of the finished product, it is also necessary
to add a rheology modifier, an antifreeze agent and a biocide.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

6
Procedure Methods of analysis
In a container, add around 90 percent of the defined volume There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
of water and, while stirring mechanically, add the antifoam, the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
antifreeze, wetting and dispersant. During this stage, it is pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
important that all the components have demonstrated they are their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
compatible with each other, presenting a homogeneous mixture. as a baseline.
Particle size of the AI must be 20 times smaller than the Suggestions for types of stability tests:
size of the milling sphere in order to mill the formula. If the a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
initial particle size of the AI is too large, it should be reduced day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
through either a high-shearing dispersing step or pre-milling when development begins and if there are many options
step. The friction generated during the milling process to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
may raise the temperature of the formulation. Cooling is very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
necessary during this process in order to prevent AI melting materials available.
or degradation and alteration of surfactant behavior.
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
The ideal quantity of spheres and milling time depends on the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three-
the particle size distribution and hardness of the AI. Fill the month period with monthly assessments. This is a less
miller chamber with spheres at an initial volume of 80 percent flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating
and mill for 15 minutes in a batch miller or one cycle in a long-term formula stability.
continuous miller. Ideally, particle size should be determined
using a particle size analyzer every 15 minutes or after each c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
cycle of the continuous miller. Ideal milling is one that does in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
not exceed two milling cycles. (-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week.
To finalize, when the formula reaches the desired particle size
(normally less than 10 μm), it may be necessary to deaerate Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to
the formula under slow agitation and then add the rheology use a single method during development to ensure proper
modifier until achieving the desired thickness (between 2000- comparisons between formulations.
4000 cps). Top off with water. During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is
sealed in order to prevent any possible evaporation of the
solvent, leading to error during analysis.
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also
varies from company to company. Common analyses
include emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam.
However, it is also important to assess phase separation, pH
fluctuations, changes in appearance, the presence of crystals
in the formula and water emulsion, AI degradation and other
factors, in order to ensure the best performance throughout
the formulation’s intended shelf life.
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(CIPAC) test methods.

7
 Suggested formulations 30% Pymetrozine SC
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
Function Product Weight (%)
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition Al Pymetrozine* 30.0
to interaction with the other components of the formula. Linear Alkyl
Wetting agent 3.0
Sulfonate (LAS)*
Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every Dispersant
POWERBLOX™
7.5
region. Please contact the Customer Support in your region for D-205 Dispersant
any additional, relevant regulatory information. POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 2.5
D-305 Dispersant

35% Tebuconazole SC XIAMETER™ AFE-

Antifoam agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05
Emulsion
Function Product Weight (%)
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 5.0
Al Tebuconazole* 35.0
2% Xanthan Gum*
ECOSURF™ EH-6 Rheology modifier 3.0
Wetting agent 1.0 Aqueous solution
Surfactant
Biocide Biocide* 0.1
TERGITOL™ XD
Dispersant 4.0
Surfactant Vehicle Water to 100.00
XIAMETER™ AFE-
Defoaming agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05 16% Pymetrozine + 6% ethofenprox SC
Emulsion
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 5.0 Function Product Weight (%)

2% Xanthan Gum* Al Pymetrozine* 16.0

Rheology modifier 7.5
Aqueous solution Al Ethofenprox* 6.0
Biocide Biocide* 0.1 ECOSURF™ EH-6
Wetting agent 2.0
Vehicle Water to 100.00 Surfactant
POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 6.0
35% Imidacloprid SC D-205 Dispersant
POWERBLOX™
Function Product Weight (%) Dispersant 2.0
D-305 Dispersant
Al Imidacloprid* 35.0 XIAMETER™ AFE-
Antifoam agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05
ECOSURF™ EH-6
Wetting agent 1.0 Emulsion
Surfactant
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 5.0
POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 1.2
D-305 Dispersant 2% Xanthan Gum*
Rheology modifier 5.0
Aqueous solution
TERGITOL™ XD
Dispersant 4.0
Surfactant Biocide Biocide* 0.1
XIAMETER™ AFE- Vehicle Water to 100.00
Defoaming agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05
Emulsion (continued on next page)

Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 5.0

2% Xanthan Gum*
Rheology modifier 5.0
Aqueous solution
Biocide Biocide* 0.1
Vehicle Water to 100.00

*Product not marketed by Dow

8
Suggested formulations (continued) 20% Spirodiclofen SC
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
Function Product Weight (%)
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition AI Spirodiclofen* 20.0
to interaction with the other components of the formula. ECOSURF™ EH-6
Wetting agent 1.0
Surfactant
Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic
region. Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved Dispersant
POWERBLOX™
3.0
for every region. Please contact the Dow representative in your D-205 Dispersant
region for any additional, relevant regulatory information. POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 2.0
D-305 Dispersant

22.5% Thifulzamide SC Co-wetting/ TERGITOL™ XD

2.0
Co-dispersant Surfactant
Function Product Weight (%) 2% Xanthan Gum*
Rheology modifier 10.0
Aqueous solution
AI Thifluzamide* 22.5
Rheology modifier Clay* 1.0
ECOSURF™ EH-6
Wetting agent 3.0
Surfactant XIAMETER™ AFE-
Antifoam agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05
Co-wetting/ TERGITOL™ XD
0.5 Emulsion
Co-dispersant Surfactant
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 3.0
POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 1.0
D-305 Dispersant Biocide Biocide* 0.1
POWERBLOX™ Vehicle Water to 100.00
Dispersant 2.0
D-205 Dispersant
XIAMETER™ AFE-
Antifoam agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05
Emulsion
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 3.0
Magnesium
Rheology modifier 0.5
Aluminum Silicate*
2% Xanthan Gum*
Rheology modifier 10.0
Aqueous solution
Monoethanolamine
pH Regulator adjust pH to 8~8.5
(MEA)
Biocide Biocide* 0.1
Vehicle Water to 100.00

*Product not marketed by Dow

9
 EC
Emulsifiable
concentrate

10 (1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).
EC Emulsifiable concentrate

Description How to develop an EC formulation

According to CropLife International, an emulsifiable Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
concentrate (EC) is “a liquid, homogeneous formulation to the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure
be applied as an emulsion after dilution in water.”(1) An EC that it will be stable and soluble with the solvent chosen.
should be stable and free from visible suspended matter Start with a recipe that yields about 10 ml of formulation,
and sediment. which is sufficient to conduct initial tests.
It is commonly recommended that an emulsion stability of After determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration
maximum creaming of 1 percent v/v, and absence of clear of the other components is estimated in accordance with the
separation of the oil and/or aqueous phase in solution. desired characteristics of the final formulation.
Benefits Procedure
• Low cost In test tubes, add all the AIs and solvents that you intend to
• Straightforward technology use. At this stage, it is important that the AI is totally soluble,
• Large homogenization of active ingredient (AI) creating a homogeneous solution.
• Easy handling by farmers
• Enhanced efficacy in the field Ideally, use a ternary diagram (below) for assessment of the
surfactants to be tested, including: a high molecular weight
Criteria for an EC formulation dispersant, an anionic surfactant for electrostatic stabilization
and a wetting agent to help anchor the dispersant.
AIs for an EC formulation can be solid or liquid. In order to
develop a good EC, we recommend that the AI demonstrates Prepare three base formulations containing AIs and solvents
chemical stability and solubility in the solvent to be used, and in targeted concentrations. Each of the base formulations also
that it maintains this solubility even at low temperatures or contains one of the three surfactants (high molecular weight
following dilution in water. dispersant, anionic surfactant and nonionic wetting agent).

Components used in an EC formulation Base formulation example

During the formulation process, we recommend using a
Tube 1 Tube 2 Tube 3
solvent with a high flash point to reduce shipping and storage
hazards. Oxygenated solvents are widely used due to their AI 50% 50% 50%
biodegradable characteristics; but preliminary studies need Solvent 40% 40% 40%
to be conducted to identify the best solvent for the AI. Use
Surfactant A 10% 10% 10%
of properly selected wetting agents and dispersants is also
critical. These provide the steric stabilization and electrostatic Surfactant B 0% 10% 0%
repulsion necessary for a spontaneous emulsion formation Surfactant C 0% 0% 10%
and long-lasting emulsion stability.
This type of formula typically contains:

AI 200-600 g/l
Solvent 5-20 g/l
Wetting agent 20-60 g/l
Dispersant 50-80 g/l

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 3 (7th Edition, March 2017).

11
 Then, mix these formulas in different proportions per the Reference table
reference table. (For example, a mixture of 20 percent from
Tube 1, 20 percent from Tube 2 and 60 percent from Tube 3.) Components Components
Point Point
A volume of 100 ml of each of the three solutions is sufficient A B C A B C
for initial tests.
1 100 0 0 35 30 50 20

2 90 0 10 36 30 60 10
3 90 10 0 37 30 70 0
4 80 0 20 38 20 0 80
5 80 10 10 39 20 10 70
6 80 20 0 40 20 20 60

7 70 0 30 41 20 30 50

8 70 10 20 42 20 40 40

9 70 20 10 43 20 50 30

10 70 30 0 44 20 60 20
11 60 0 40 45 20 70 10
12 60 10 30 46 20 80 0
13 60 20 20 47 10 0 90
14 60 30 10 48 10 10 80
15 60 40 0 49 10 20 70
16 50 0 50 50 10 30 60
17 50 10 40 51 10 40 50
18 50 20 30 52 10 50 40
19 50 30 20 53 10 60 30
20 50 40 10 54 10 70 20
21 50 50 0 55 10 80 10
22 40 0 60 56 10 90 0
23 40 10 50 57 0 0 100
24 40 20 40 58 0 10 90
25 40 30 30 59 0 20 80
26 40 40 20 60 0 30 70
27 40 50 10 61 0 40 60
28 40 60 0 62 0 50 50
29 30 0 70 63 0 60 40
30 30 10 60 64 0 70 30
31 30 20 50 65 0 80 20
32 30 30 40 66 0 90 10
33 33 33 33 67 0 100 0
34 30 40 30

12
With the initial solutions ready and the first formulas defined, Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to
the appearance of each formula must be checked. If the use a single method during development to ensure proper
visual criteria are met, assess the stability of the emulsion comparisons between formulations.
in accordance with applicable standards. After assessing During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is
and verifying the best formula, prepare the formulas that are sealed in order to prevent any possible evaporation of the
closest to it. For example, if the best emulsion has been the solvent, leading to error during analysis.
40 formula, prepare and assess formulas 30, 31, 39, 41, 49
and 50, checking the area of the graph where the formulas are Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also
more stable. varies from company to company. Common analyses
include emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam.
Normally, in order to achieve an ideal formula, more than one However, it is also important to assess phase separation, pH
set of surfactants needs to be tested. Repeat the tests above, fluctuations, changes in appearance, the presence of crystals
varying the chemical structure and/or ethoxylation level of in the formula and water emulsion, AI degradation and other
the surfactants used. It is important to verify the purity of the factors, in order to ensure the best performance throughout
surfactants to prevent use of surfactants that are solubilized the formulation’s intended shelf life.
in a solvent incompatible with the formula.
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
Use of Dow technology, such as high throughput laboratories, Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
can help speed up the selection process. (CIPAC) test methods.
Methods of analysis Contact your local Dow representative for more
information about our diverse product portfolio,
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
application knowledge and customized formulation
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
solutions.
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
as a baseline.
Suggestions for types of stability tests:
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
when development begins and if there are many options
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
materials available.
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less
flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating
long-term formula stability.
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week.

13
 Suggested formulations 10% Bifenthrin EC
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
Function Product Weight (%)
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition AI Bifenthrin* 10.0
to interaction with the other components of the formula. TERGITOL™ 15-S-9
Wetting agent 2.0
Surfactant
Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic
region. Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved Nonionic emulsifier
TERGITOL™ XD
5.0
for every region. Please contact the Dow representative in your Surfactant
region for any additional, relevant regulatory information. Calcium
Dodecylbenzene
Anionic emulsifier 3.0
Sulphonate
(CaDDBS)*
Methylated Seed Oil
Vehicle to 100.00
(MSO)*

47% Chlorpyrifos EC

Function Product Weight (%)

AI Chlorpyrifos* 47.0
ECOSURF™ EH-9
Wetting agent 2.7
Surfactant
Anionic emulsifier CaDDBS* 5.0
TERGITOL™ XD
Nonionic emulsifier 1.3
Surfactant
TERGITOL™
Nonionic emulsifier 1.0
ECO-40 Surfactant
Vehicle Aromatic 100* to 100.0

72.9% 2,4D EC

Function Product Weight (%)

2,4D 2-ethylhexyl
AI 72.9
ester*
TERGITOL™
Nonionic emulsifier 5.0
ECO-36 Surfactant
Anionic emulsifier CaDDBS* 5.05
Vehicle Aromatic 200* to 100.0

*Product not marketed by Dow

14
 CS
Capsule
suspension

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017). 15
 CS Capsule suspension

Description Components used in an CS formulation

According to CropLife International, a capsule suspension The AIs for CS formulations are solids solubilized in nonpolar
(CS) is “a stable suspension of capsules in a fluid, normally solvents or emulsified liquids in an aqueous solution. In
intended for dilution with water before use.”(1) order to develop a good CS, we recommend following these
requirements regarding the AI:
It is commonly recommended that a minimum of 70 percent
suspensibility of the active ingredient (AI) must be attained by • Hydrolytically stable
a CS formulation. Suspensibility can be measured according • Low solubility in water
to Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council • Indicated for volatile AIs
(CIPAC) MT 184, where the AI shall be in suspension in • Indicated for AIs with high skin irritation
a specified water composition after a specified time at a • Indicated for AIs in which one desires a controlled release
specified temperature.
This type of formula typically contains:
Benefits
AI 10-500 g/l
• Controlled release of AI with greater residual
bioactive effect Water-immiscible
0-250 g/l
solvent
• Lower toxicity and control/reduction of AI
• Reduced phytotoxicity Emulsifier 5-100 g/l
Wall-forming
Criteria for an CS formulation 10-50 g/l
monomer 1
There are a number of ways to encapsulate AIs, which may Wall-forming
10-50 g/l
be liquids or solubilized solids. The most common of these monomer 2
are polyurea capsules, in which the AI needs to be emulsified Photodegradation
along with an amine in order to react with an isocyanate to 0-50 g/l
inhibitor
form the capsules.
Buffering agent 0-50 g/l
Formula: CS (capsule suspension) Thickener 0-10 g/l
Antifreeze 50-100 g/l
Biocide 0.5-1.5 g/l
Water to 100%

When selecting the amine and isocyanate, one should take

the reactivity of the components into account as well as
the mechanical properties desired for the capsule. Aliphatic
amines react more quickly than aromatic amines of lower
alkalinity, provided there is no significant steric hindrance.
In contrast to amines, aliphatic isocyanates are less reactive
than the aromatic ones. In other words, the higher the
reactivity of the amine and isocyanate components, the faster
the reaction takes place, resulting in a higher exotherm which
can be more difficult to control.

CS: A suspension of capsules contain the AI formed through a

microencapsulation process.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 3 (7th Edition, March 2017).

16
How to develop a CS formulation c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure
test conducted for one week.
that it is compatible with the type of formulation chosen.
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to
Start with a recipe that yields about 300 ml of formulation, a
use a single method during development to ensure proper
quantity that is sufficient to conduct initial tests.
comparisons between formulations.
After determining the concentration of the AI, the
During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is
concentration of the other components is estimated in
sealed in order to prevent any possible evaporation of the
accordance with the characteristics of the final formula
solvent, leading to error during analysis.
desired.
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
NOTE: Ensure the reactor used is equipped with proper
from company to company. Common analyses include
temperature control in order to prepare a CS formulation.
emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam.
Procedure However, it is also important to assess phase separation, pH
In a container, add around 90 percent of the defined volume fluctuations, changes in appearance, the presence of crystals
of water and, while stirring mechanically, add the antifoam, in the formula and water emulsion, AI degradation and other
antifreeze, wetting, dispersant and amine. While stirring, add factors, in order to ensure the best performance throughout
the liquid or solubilized AI to form a concentrated emulsion. the formulation’s intended shelf life.
During this stage, it is important that all the components are For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
compatible, in order to achieve a homogeneous mixture. CIPAC test methods.
Check the size of the particle as it determines the size of the
Contact your local Dow representative for more
capsules.
information about our diverse product portfolio,
Under vigorous agitation, add the isocyanate in order to begin application knowledge and customized formulation
forming the polyurea capsules. Keep stirring the formulation solutions.
for approximately two hours with the temperature controlled
at around 60°C to ensure the correct capsule curing time.
After this time, finalize the formulation composition by adding
the dispersant and other components, such as the rheology
modifier. Ideal viscosity is around 2000-4000 cps.

Methods of analysis
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
as a baseline.
Suggestions for types of stability tests:
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
when development begins and if there are many options
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
materials available.
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a
threemonth period with monthly assessments. This is
a less flexible method and offers greater reliability in
evaluating long-term formula stability.

17
 ME
Microemulsion

18 (1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).
ME Microemulsion

Description Benefits
According to CropLife International, a micro-emulsion is “a • Long-term stability
clear to opalescent, oil and water containing liquid, to be • Excellent biological efficacy of the AI
applied directly or after dilution in water, when it may form a
diluted micro-emulsion or a conventional emulsion.”(1) One or Criteria for an ME formulation
more active ingredients (AIs) may be present in the aqueous In order to develop a good ME, we recommend the following
phase, the nonaqueous phase or both phases. A variety of characteristics:
micro-emulsion formulations may be prepared in which the
• Low AI concentration
aqueous phase can be considered the dispersed phase, the
• High concentration of surfactants
continuous phase or, alternatively, where the two phases are
• Hydrolytically stable AI
considered to be bicontinuous. In all cases, micro-emulsions
• Stability when stored under a wide range of
will disperse into water to form either conventional emulsions
temperatures, an interval of -5 to 45°C is
or dilute micro-emulsions.
generally required
Micro-emulsions of oil in water (MEW) are heterogeneous • Spontaneous dispersion in water
liquid formulations, comprised of a translucent • Formulation with high flash point (> 57°C)
thermodynamically stable dispersion of fine globules (100 to
1000 Å in diameter) of an organic solution, containing AI(s), in Components used in an ME formulation
a continuous aqueous phase, for application following dilution During the formulation process, we recommend using a
in water, in the form of a micro-emulsion. solvent with a high flash point, as this offers relative safety
Micro-emulsions of water in oil (MEO) are heterogeneous during shipping and storage. Oxygenated solvents are widely
liquid formulations, comprised of a translucent used due to their biodegradability, but preliminary evaluations
thermodynamically stable dispersion of fine globules (100 to are recommended to identify the best solvent for the target AI.
1000 Å in diameter) of an organic solution, containing AI(s), in Use of the correct wetting agent ensures good spontaneous
a continuous organic phase, for application following dilution generation of the micro-emulsion, and the proper dispersant,
in water, in the form of a micro-emulsion. or combinations of dispersants, ensure steric stability and/
or electrical repulsion, resulting in longer emulsion stability.
Formula: ME (Micro-emulsion) Micro-emulsions based on vegetable or mineral oil may also
be produced.
This type of formula typically contains:

AI 30-400 g/l
Solvent 40-400 g/l
Wetting agent 100-300 g/l
Dispersant 100-300 g/l

ME: A clear or opalescent liquid with a dispersion of an insoluble

liquid containing the AI into another liquid phase.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 3 (7th Edition, March 2017).

19
 How to develop an ME formulation Start with a recipe that yields about 100 ml of formulation, a
quantity that is sufficient to conduct initial tests.
Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure After determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration
that it will be stable and soluble with the solvent chosen. of the other components is estimated in accordance with the
characteristics of the final formula desired.
Since the concentration of surfactants for the formation of
micro-emulsions is high, ideally begin development with lower
concentrations of surfactants, around a total of 10 percent,
in order to identify the best combinations to emulsify the
micro-emulsion. At high concentrations, many surfactants
will emulsify the AI and it is more difficult to identify the
differences between them.

Procedure
In a test tube, add all the AI and solvent that you intend to
use. At this stage, it is important that the AI is totally soluble,
creating a homogeneous solution.
Ideally, use a ternary diagram for assessment of the
surfactants to be tested, including: a high molecular weight
dispersant, an anionic surfactant for electrostatic stabilization
and a wetting agent to help anchor the dispersant.
In the container with the AI and solvent, add the total required
amount of surfactant of only one of the desired surfactants. Then,
do the same with the other surfactants per the example below:

Base formulation example

Tube 1 Tube 2 Tube 3

AI 50% 50% 50%
Solvent 40% 40% 40%
Surfactant A 10% 10% 10%
Surfactant B 0% 10% 0%
Surfactant C 0% 0% 10%

Next, mix these formulations in different proportions per the

reference table on the following page. (For example, a mixture
of 20 percent from Tube 1, 20 percent from Tube 2 and 60
percent from Tube 3.) A volume of 100 ml of each of the three
solutions is sufficient for initial tests.

20
Reference table With the initial solutions ready and the first formulas defined,
the appearance of each formula must be checked. If the
Components Components formulas pass visual inspection, assess the stability of the
Point Point
A B C A B C emulsion in accordance with applicable standards. After
assessing and verifying the best formula, prepare the formulas
1 100 0 0 35 30 50 20
that are closest to it. For example, if the best emulsion has
2 90 0 10 36 30 60 10 been the 40 formula, prepare and assess formulas 30, 31,
3 90 10 0 37 30 70 0 39, 41, 49 and 50, checking the area of the graph where the
formulas are more stable.
4 80 0 20 38 20 0 80
Normally, in order to achieve an ideal formula, more than one
5 80 10 10 39 20 10 70
set of surfactants needs to be tested. Repeat the tests above,
6 80 20 0 40 20 20 60 varying the chemical structure and/or ethoxylation level of
7 70 0 30 41 20 30 50 the surfactants.
8 70 10 20 42 20 40 40 When the mixture of surfactants that makes the emulsion
more stable is defined, increase the concentration of the
9 70 20 10 43 20 50 30
surfactants to around 30 to 40 percent and check for the
10 70 30 0 44 20 60 20 formation of a micro-emulsion. The micro-emulsion must
11 60 0 40 45 20 70 10 have a totally clear appearance (slightly bluish) and must
not present phase separation.
12 60 10 30 46 20 80 0
13 60 20 20 47 10 0 90
14 60 30 10 48 10 10 80
15 60 40 0 49 10 20 70
16 50 0 50 50 10 30 60
17 50 10 40 51 10 40 50
18 50 20 30 52 10 50 40
19 50 30 20 53 10 60 30
20 50 40 10 54 10 70 20
21 50 50 0 55 10 80 10
22 40 0 60 56 10 90 0
23 40 10 50 57 0 0 100
24 40 20 40 58 0 10 90
25 40 30 30 59 0 20 80
26 40 40 20 60 0 30 70
27 40 50 10 61 0 40 60
28 40 60 0 62 0 50 50
29 30 0 70 63 0 60 40
30 30 10 60 64 0 70 30
31 30 20 50 65 0 80 20
32 30 30 40 66 0 90 10
33 33 33 33 67 0 100 0
34 30 40 30

21
 Methods of analysis Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic
region. Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
for every region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
Group in your region for any additional, relevant regulatory
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
information.
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
as a baseline. 2% Avermectin + 6% Indoxacarb ME
Suggestions for types of stability tests:
Function Product Weight (%)
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method AI Avermectin* 2.0
when development begins and if there are many options Al Indoxacarb* 6.0
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
Vehicle Cyclohexanone* 45.0
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
materials available. TERGITOL™ 15-S-
Emulsifier 19.5
12 Surfactant
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
TERGITOL™ XD
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a Emulsifier 10.5
Surfactant
threemonth period with monthly assessments. This is
a less flexible method and offers greater reliability in Vehicle Water to 100.0
evaluating long-term formula stability.
17% Haloxyfop-R-methyl ME
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
Function Product Weight (%)
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week. AI Haloxyfop-R-methyl* 17.0

Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use Vehicle Cyclohexanone* 10.0

a single method during development in order to ensure proper BUTYL CARBITOL™
Vehicle 15.0
comparisons between formulations. Glycol Ether

During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is ECOSURF™ EH-3

Emulsifier 8.0
Surfactant
sealed to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent,
leading to error during analysis. TERGITOL™ XD
Emulsifier 8.0
Surfactant
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also
TRITON™ GR-7M
varies from company to company. Common analyses Emulsifier 5.0
Surfactant
include emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam.
However, it is also important to assess phase separation, pH Defoaming agent Polyether Defoamer 2.0
fluctuations, changes in appearance, the presence of crystals Vehicle Water to 100.0
in the formula and water emulsion, AI degradation and other
factors, in order to ensure the best performance throughout
the formulation’s intended shelf life. 6% Tubatoxin ME

For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to Function Product Weight (%)
Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(CIPAC) test methods. AI Tubatoxin* 6.0
Vehicle Cyclohexanone* 25.0
Contact your local Dow representative for more
information about our diverse product portfolio, Vehicle
Dimethylformamide
25.0
application knowledge and customized formulation (DMF)*
solutions. ECOSURF™ EH-6
Emulsifier 15.0
Surfactant
Suggested formulations TERGITOL™ XD
Emulsifier 15.0
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested Surfactant
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into Vehicle Water to 100.0
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition
to interaction with the other components of the formula.

22
 EW
Emulsion:
Oil in water

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017). 23
 EW Emulsion: Oil in water

Description Components used in an EW formulation

According to CropLife International, an oil in water emulsion During the formulation process, we recommend using a
(EW) is “a fluid, heterogeneous formulation consisting of a solvent with a high flash point to reduce shipping and storage
solution of pesticide in an organic liquid dispersed as fine hazards. Oxygenated solvents are widely used due to their
globules in a continuous water phase.”(1) biodegradable characteristics; but preliminary studies need
to be conducted to identify the best solvent for the AI. In
It is commonly recommended that an emulsion have a stability
addition, appropriate wetting agents and dispersants need to
of a maximum 1 percent v/v of cream, and absence of clear
be selected to keep the emulsion stable for the longest period
separation of the oil and/or aqueous phase in solution.
of time, ensuring a longer shelf life. A biocide is important to
Benefits ensure there is no microbial growth, as aqueous formulations
are prone to this. A rheology modifier must also be added
• Replacement of organic content with water
at the end of the process, in order to ensure the formula has
• Reduced phytotoxicity
greater stability.
• Reduced flammability
• Reduced active ingredient (AI) volatility This type of formula typically contains:
• Reduced irritability of formula
AI 50-300 g/l
Criteria for an EW formulation
Wetting agent 50-100 g/l
For a good EW, we recommend the following: Dispersant 50-100 g/l
• Use hydrolytically stable AIs with solubility below
Water 300-700 g/l
10 ppm in water.
• Disperse the organic phase within the aqueous phase by Solvent 300-600 g/l
reducing the interfacial tension of the oil/water during mixing. Biocide 1-3 g/l
• Steric and electrostatic stabilization of the micronized
droplets will help prevent aggregation, flocculation Rheology modifier 1-5 g/l
and coalescence.
Formula: EW (Emulsion: Oil in water)
• Facilitate the dispersion of the formula during the
aqueous dilution.

EW: A dispersion of insoluble liquid AI or AI containing liquid

into water.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 3 (7th Edition, March 2017).

24
How to develop an EW formulation Ideally, a ternary diagram should be used for assessment of
the surfactants to be tested, including: a high molecular weight
Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
dispersant, an anionic surfactant for electrostatic stabilization
the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure
and a wetting agent.
that it will be stable and soluble with the solvent chosen.
Prepare three base formulations containing the AIs, solvents
Start with a recipe that yields about 300 ml of formulation,
and one of the three surfactants in targeted concentrations.
which is sufficient to conduct initial tests.
After determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration Base formulation example
of the other components is estimated in accordance with the
characteristics of the final formula desired. Tube 1 Tube 2 Tube 3
AI 50% 50% 50%
Procedure
Solvent 40% 40% 40%
In a container, combine the AI(s) and solvent(s) that you
Surfactant A 10% 10% 10%
intend to use. At this stage, it is important that the AI is totally
soluble, creating a homogeneous solution. Add the oil soluble Surfactant B 0% 10% 0%
surfactants to this same solution. Surfactant C 0% 0% 10%

In separate containers, add the appropriate amount of water

and water soluble surfactants, using a similar pattern (e.g., 90
percent water, 10 percent surfactant).
Keep stirring the containers with the aqueous solutions and
slowly add the corresponding AI/solvent solutions. Observe
whether a low viscosity emulsion with stable appearance is
formed. Using the rheology modifier, adjust the viscosity to a
value between 2000-4000 cps.
Next, mix these formulations in different proportions per the
reference table on the following page. (For example, a mixture
of 20 percent from formulation 1, 20 percent from formulation 2
and 60 percent from formulation 3.) A volume of 100 ml of each
of the three solutions is sufficient for initial tests.
With the initial solutions ready and the first formulas defined,
the appearance of each formula must be checked. If the
formulas pass visual inspection, assess the stability of the
emulsion in accordance with applicable standards. After
assessing and verifying the best formula, prepare the formulas
that are closest to it. For example, if the best emulsion has
been the 40 formula, prepare and assess formulas 30, 31,
39, 41, 49 and 50, checking the area of the graph where the
formulas are more stable.
Normally, in order to achieve an ideal formula, more than one
set of surfactants needs to be tested. Repeat the tests above,
varying the chemical structure and/or ethoxylation level of
the surfactants.
Use of Dow technology, such as high throughput laboratories,
can help speed up the selection process.

25
 Reference table Methods of analysis
Components Components There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
Point Point
A B C A B C the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
1 100 0 0 35 30 50 20 pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
2 90 0 10 36 30 60 10
as a baseline.
3 90 10 0 37 30 70 0
Suggestions for types of stability tests:
4 80 0 20 38 20 0 80
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
5 80 10 10 39 20 10 70 day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
6 80 20 0 40 20 20 60 when development begins and if there are many options
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
7 70 0 30 41 20 30 50
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
8 70 10 20 42 20 40 40 materials available.
9 70 20 10 43 20 50 30 b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
10 70 30 0 44 20 60 20 the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a
threemonth period with monthly assessments. This is
11 60 0 40 45 20 70 10
a less flexible method and offers greater reliability in
12 60 10 30 46 20 80 0 evaluating long-term formula stability.
13 60 20 20 47 10 0 90 c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
14 60 30 10 48 10 10 80 in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
15 60 40 0 49 10 20 70
test conducted for one week.
16 50 0 50 50 10 30 60
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to
17 50 10 40 51 10 40 50
use a single method during development to ensure proper
18 50 20 30 52 10 50 40 comparisons between formulations.
19 50 30 20 53 10 60 30 During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is
20 50 40 10 54 10 70 20 sealed in order to prevent any possible evaporation of the
solvent, leading to error during analysis.
21 50 50 0 55 10 80 10
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also
22 40 0 60 56 10 90 0
varies from company to company. Common analyses
23 40 10 50 57 0 0 100 include emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam.
24 40 20 40 58 0 10 90 However, it is also important to assess phase separation, pH
fluctuations, changes in appearance, the presence of crystals
25 40 30 30 59 0 20 80
in the formula and water emulsion, AI degradation and other
26 40 40 20 60 0 30 70 factors, in order to ensure the best performance throughout
27 40 50 10 61 0 40 60 the formulation’s intended shelf life.
28 40 60 0 62 0 50 50 For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
29 30 0 70 63 0 60 40 Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(CIPAC) test methods.
30 30 10 60 64 0 70 30
Contact your local Dow representative for more
31 30 20 50 65 0 80 20
information about our diverse product portfolio,
32 30 30 40 66 0 90 10 application knowledge and customized formulation
33 33 33 33 67 0 100 0 solutions.

34 30 40 30

26
Suggested formulations 20% Fosthiazate EW
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
Function Product Weight (%)
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition AI Fosthiazate* 20.0
to interaction with the other components of the formula. Aromatic solvent
Vehicle 20.0
#150*
Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every Emulsifier
TERGITOL™ L-62
3.0
region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service Group in Surfactant
your region for any additional, relevant regulatory information. TERGITOL™ XD
Emulsifier 3.4
Surfactant
2.5% Lambda-cyhalothrin EW
DOWFAX™ 2A1
Emulsifier 1.9
Surfactant
Function Product Weight (%)
Epoxidized Soybean
AI Lambda-cyhalothrin* 2.5 Vehicle 3.0
Oil*
Vehicle Solvent oil* 4.0
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 3.0
TERGITOL™ XD
Emulsifier 4.0 Vehicle Water to 100.0
Surfactant

Rheology modifier
20% Polyvinyl
10.0 25% Tebuconazole EW
Alcohol

XIAMETER™ Function Product Weight (%)

Defoaming agent AFE-1520 0.05
AI Tebuconazole* 25.0
Antifoam Emulsion
Vehicle Cyclohexanone* 30.0
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 3.0
TERGITOL™ 15-S-3
Vehicle Water to 100.0 Emulsifier 7.0
Surfactant

30% Chlorpyrifos EW TERGITOL™ XD

Emulsifier 2.4
Surfactant

Function Product Weight (%) TRITON™ GR-7M

Emulsifier 1.0
Surfactant
AI Chlorpyrifos* 30.0
Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 3.0
Vehicle Solvent oil 150#* 15.0
2% Xanthan Gum*
TERGITOL™ XD Rheology modifier 4.0
Emulsifier 4.0 Aqueous Solution
Surfactant
Vehicle Water to 100.0
XIAMETER™ AFE-
Defoaming agent 1510 Antifoam 0.05
Emulsion

Antifreeze Propylene Glycol 5.0

2% Xanthan Gum*
Rheology modifier 10.0
Aqueous Solution
Vehicle Water to 100.0

*Product not marketed by Dow

27
 SE
Suspo-emulsion

28 (1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).
SE Suspo-emulsion

Description Criteria for an SE formulation

According to CropLife International, a suspo-emulsion (SE) is “a An SE-type formula must contain at least two AIs. One of these
fluid, heterogeneous formulation consisting of a stable dispersion must be a solid that is insoluble in water and the other may
of active ingredient(s) in the form of solid particles and of water be a liquid or solubilized solid in solvent. In order to develop a
non-miscible fine globules in a continuous water phase.”(1) good SE, we recommend the following regarding the AIs:
It is commonly recommended that the water insoluble active For AI to be suspended:
ingredient (AI) have a minimum of 80 percent suspensibility. • Must be hydrolytically stable
Suspensibility can be measured according to Collaborative • Have melting point over 70°C
International Pesticides Analytical Council (CIPAC) MT • Have solubility less than 50 ppm in water and in the
184, where the AI shall be in suspension in a specific water solvent used to solubilize the emulsified AI
composition after a set time at a certain temperature. Usually, • Have stable crystal morphology
the SE formulation also achieves a minimum of 98 percent • Have high hardness
pass through a wet sieve screen of 75 μm, in addition to
emulsion stability with maximum creaming of 1 percent v/v For AI to be emulsified:
with no clear phase separation of the oil and/or aqueous • Must be hydrolytically stable
phase in solution. • Soluble in the chosen solvent
• Chemically compatible with the AI to be suspended
Benefits
Components used in an SE formulation
• Different AIs rendered compatible in the same formulation
• Possible reduction in toxicity During the formulation process, a wetting agent is needed
• Excellent solution stability in the spray tank during to ensure that AI particles are incorporated in the water, and
application in the field to help with milling. Use of a dispersant will maintain the
particles apart from one another while also enhancing stability
Formula: SE (suspo-emulsion) in the finished product. An anti-foaming agent or low foaming
surfactant is recommended to minimize foam formation
during milling. In addition, a rheology modifier, antifreeze
agent and biocide are necessary to improve shelf life stability.
A solvent may also be necessary depending on the AI that is
to be emulsified.
This type of formula typically contains:

AI to be suspended 100-350 g/l

AI to be emulsified 50-300 g/l
Wetting agent 30-60 g/l
Dispersant 30-80 g/l
Antifreeze 50-80 g/l

Antifoam 1-20 g/l

Rheology modifier 1-10 g/1

Biocide 1-5 g/l

SE: A suspension of insoluble solid AI(s) combined with
Solvent 50-300 g/l
emulsified liquid or solubilized solid AI(s) with water as the liquid
media and inert formulation components.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

29
 How to develop an SE formulation proceed to add the rheology modifier. The rheology modifier
must be added until final viscosity of the formula is between
Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
2000-4000 cps.
the physical and chemical characteristics of the AIs to ensure
compatibility with the type of formula chosen. If the concentration of AIs in the formula is not very high,
another way to formulate an SE is by preparing an oil in water
Start with a recipe that yields about 300 ml of formulation,
emulsion (EW) from the AI that was solubilized, and making a
which is sufficient to conduct initial tests. After determining
mixture of this EW, which is a more concentrated emulsion, with
the concentration of the AIs, the concentration of the
the suspension.
other components is estimated in accordance with the
characteristics of the desired final formula. Methods of analysis
Procedure There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
To make an SE, first obtain a stable suspension of the AI to be
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
suspended. Then, proceed with the incorporation of the other AI
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
in this suspension.
as a baseline.
To begin the development of the suspension, follow the
Suggestions for types of stability tests:
procedure below, bearing in mind that this suspension will be
more concentrated, as it will be diluted with the emulsified AI. a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
In a container, add around 90 percent of the defined volume
when development begins and if there are many options
of water and, while stirring mechanically, add the antifoam,
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
wetting, dispersant and antifreeze. During this stage, it is
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
important that all the components have demonstrated they are
materials available.
compatible with each other, producing a homogeneous mixture.
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
Particle size of the AI must be 20 times smaller than the size
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three
of the milling sphere in order to mill the formula. If the initial
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less
particle size is too large, reduce it through either a highshearing
flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating
dispersing step or pre-milling step.
long-term formula stability.
The friction generated during the milling process may raise the
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
temperature of the formulation. Cooling is necessary during this
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
process to prevent AI melting or degradation and alteration of
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
surfactant behavior.
test conducted for one week.
The ideal quantity of spheres and milling time depends on the
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use
granulometric particle size distribution and hardness of the AI.
a single method during development in order to ensure proper
Fill the miller chamber with spheres at an initial volume of 80
comparisons between formulations.
percent and mill for 15 minutes in a batch miller or one cycle in
a continuous miller. Ideally, particle size should be determined During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is sealed
using a particle size analyzer every 15 minutes or after each to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent, leading to
cycle of the continuous miller. Ideal milling is one that does not error during analysis.
exceed two milling cycles. Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
To finalize, when the formula reaches the desired particle size, from company to company. Common analyses include
(normally less than 10 μm), it may be necessary to deaerate the emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam. However,
formula under slow agitation. it is also important to assess phase separation, pH fluctuations,
changes in appearance, the presence of crystals in the formula
The second AI that is to be added to the suspension can be
and water emulsion, AI degradation and other factors, in order
prepared in a separate container.
to ensure the best performance throughout the formulation’s
In this container, add the AI, the solvent to be used to solubilize intended shelf life.
it and the surfactants of the formulation. With this solution
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
ready, it can be added slowly to the previously prepared
CIPAC test methods.
suspension while stirring it.
Contact your local Dow representative for more information
After mixing the two systems, check whether there is any
about our diverse product portfolio, application knowledge
incompatibility between the components and, if stable,
and customized formulation solutions.

30
Suggested formulations
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition
to interaction with the other components of the formula.
Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every
region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service Group in
your region for any additional, relevant regulatory information.

4.7% Epoxiconazole + 12.3% Pyraclostrobin SE

Function Product Weight (%)

AI Epoxiconazole* 4.7
25 wt%
Al 50.2
Pyraclostrobin SC*
ECOSURF™ EH-6
Wetting agent 2.0
Surfactant

TERGITOL™ XD
Dispersant 1.0
Surfactant

2% Xanthan Gum*
Rheology modifier 5.0
Aqueous Solution
Vehicle Cyclohexanone* 27.2
Vehicle Water to 100.0

*Product not marketed by Dow

31
 SL
Soluble concentrate

32 (1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).
SL Soluble concentrate

Description appearance is similar to water, the addition of a dye is

indicated as well. Depending on the toxicity of the AI, addition
According to CropLife International, a soluble concentrate is
of emetics may be required. Finally, if the chosen solvent is
“a clear to opalescent liquid to be applied as a solution of the
water, antifreeze needs to be included to prevent freezing at
active ingredient after dilution in water. The liquid may contain
low temperatures.
water-insoluble formulants.”(1)
Normally, this type of formula contains:
It is commonly recommended that the formulation, following
dilution in water and standing at 30°C (+/- 2°C) for 18 hours, shall How to develop an SL formulation
produce a clear or opalescent solution, free from more than a
trace of sediment and visible solid particles. Any visible sediment AI (solid or liquid),
or particles produced shall pass through a 45 μm sieve. 100-600 g/l
soluble in water

Benefits Wetting agents 20-200 g/l

Water/polar solvent 300-800 g/l
• Simple manufacturing process
• Low production cost Antifoam agent 2-20 g/l
• Extended long-term physical stability Antifreeze 30-70 g/l
• High efficiency
Biocide 1-3 g/l
Criteria for an SL formulation Dye 1-500 ppm
The active ingredient (AI) for an SL formula needs to be
chemically stable in the solvent to be used (either water or Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
another polar solvent). In addition, the AI needs to be fully the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure
soluble in water at the concentration it is to be applied at compatibility with the type of formulation chosen.
in the field. Control over the pH of the formula is important, Start with a recipe that yields about 100 ml of formulation,
since most AIs are salts and have their solubility altered which is sufficient to conduct initial tests. After determining
by the pH value of the solution. In some formulas, use the concentration of the AI, the concentration of the
of sequestering agents is necessary in order to prevent other components is estimated in accordance with the
precipitation of the salt. characteristics of the desired final formula.
Despite the AI’s solubility in water at the target concentration
Procedure
to be applied in the field, surfactants are commonly used as
adjuvants to improve the biological efficacy. In a container, add all the volume of water and/or other
defined polar solvent and add the AI while stirring. The AI
Components used in an SL formulation must be fully dissolved. Note that the AI may require prior
Soluble liquids demonstrate a strong hydrophilic characteristic neutralization with an appropriate component. If the AI is an
and are difficult to wet and penetrate into lipophilic foliage acid that requires neutralization in order to be converted into
barriers. For this reason, even if the AI is soluble in the a soluble salt, first proceed with the neutralization of the AI,
medium, surfactants need to be added in order to reduce with the proper caution that the acid neutralization requires.
the surface tension and improve spreading and penetration. NOTE: Ideally, AI solubilization is conducted at room
During the formulation process, the AI needs to be solubilized temperature in order to prevent the AI from recrystallizing as
in the chosen polar solvent. It is important to ensure that all the temperature is reduced.
of the AI has been dissolved, and that the solution is clear, Then, maintaining agitation, add the antifoam, wetting agent
free from more than a trace of sediment and visible solid and antifreeze. During this stage, it is important that all the
particles. Any small, non-dissolved AI crystal may serve as components have demonstrated they are compatible with
a seed for crystallization throughout the formulation’s shelf each other, generating a homogeneous mixture.
life. Due to the low viscosity and presence of surfactants,
The surfactants to be used depend on the AI mode of action.
this type of formulation has a tendency to create significant
If the purpose of the surfactant in the formulation is only to
levels of foam. To help prevent foaming during stirring, a
improve spreading, a surfactant that reduces surface tension
wetting agent and, if necessary, a biological activator adjuvant
is more appropriate. If the formula needs to penetrate a
should be added after solubilization is complete. Antifoamers/
surface, a specific surfactant capable of performing this
defoamers are also required. Since the formulation’s typical
action is required.

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CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

33
 Methods of analysis Suggested formulations
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country to interaction with the other components of the formula.
as a baseline. Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
Suggestions for types of stability tests: Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every
region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service Group in
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
your region for any additional, relevant regulatory information.
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
when development begins and if there are many options 41% Glyphosate IPA SL
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw SL mix 1 SL mix 2
Function Product
materials available. Weight (%) Weight (%)

b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which AI

Glyphosate
41.0 41.2
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three Isopropylamine (IPA)*
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less TRITON™ BG-10
Wetting agent 14.6 16.6
flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating Surfactant
long-term formula stability. Vehicle Water 44.4 to 100.0
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week.
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use
a single method during development in order to ensure proper
comparisons between formulations.
During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is sealed
to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent, leading to
error during analysis.
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
from company to company. Common analyses include
emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam. However,
it is also important to assess phase separation, pH fluctuations,
changes in appearance, the presence of crystals in the formula
and water emulsion, AI degradation and other factors, in order
to ensure the best performance throughout the formulation’s
intended shelf life.
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(CIPAC) test methods.
Contact your local Dow representative for more information
about our diverse product portfolio, application knowledge
and customized formulation solutions.

*Product not marketed by Dow

34
WG
Water dispersible
granule

35
 WG Water dispersible granule

Description different granulation processes, the following stand out:

According to CropLife International, a water dispersible • Spray-drying: This is conducted in three stages:
granule (WG) is “a formulation consisting of granules to be preparation of a slurry, spraying the slurry to generate
applied after disintegration and dispersion in water.”(1) It is granules and drying. The slurry is prepared as an SC,
commonly recommended that the formulation needs to attain but with a higher concentration of AIs (which may be
at least 60 percent suspensibility, achieving a minimum of 98 micronized in advance or wet-milled), and without the
percent m/m of the dispersion passing through a wet sieve addition of rheology modifiers so the slurry is fluid
screen of 75 mm. enough to be sprayed. The size and resistance of the
granule may also be controlled in this process.
WG is also known as WDG (water dispersible granules), Dry
• Extrusion: An almost-dry paste is formed with AIs,
Flowable or GRDA (granules dispersible in water).
wetting agents, dispersants and other inert ingredients.
Compared to water soluble powders (SP) and wettable The shape and hardness of the granule may be controlled
powders (WP), a WG is typically recognized for helping according to the shape of the extruder matrix, paste
minimize exposure of the applicator to potential dust from the moistness and pressure applied. The formulation
pesticide. characteristics must be appropriate for the type of
extruder to be used.
Benefits
• Pan granulation: Granules are obtained via the
• High active ingredient (AI) content
agglomeration of a mixture of powders in a container
• Pesticide particles (granules) are not subject to the drift
at a controlled agglomeration rate. The shape and size
observed in powder formulas
of granules may be controlled by adjusting the amount
• May be formulated to provide controlled release of the AI
of water used, the position of the spray and angle of
• Developed as an alternative to WP and suspension
rotation of the container. This type of process typically
concentrate (SC) formulas
results in readily dispersible granules.
– In relation to WP:
- Higher density • Fluidized bed: Granulation on a fluidized bed is practical
- Higher suspensibility and dispersibility as it shapes and dries out the granules at the same time.
(reduced risk of flocculation) AIs in powder form remain on the bed while the water
- Doesn’t dust (improved safety) solution is sprayed with the surfactants, hence forming
- Easy handling and dosing tiny granules (around 0.5 mm).
– In relation to SC: In order to develop a good WG, the AI must be:
- Suitable for hydrolytically instable AIs
• In powder form and, in most cases, micronized
- High AI content
in advance
- Reduced formation can help reduce packaging
waste (water soluble packaging can be used • Thermally stable at the designated process
with WG) granulation temperatures

Criteria for an WG formulation

The technology for manufacturing dispersible granules is
complex, as granules may be formed via different granulation
techniques, but as a final result one always expects
performance similar to that of the SC and WP formulations.
WGs are typically obtained by the agglomeration of a solid
AI with dispersant/ligand agents. Size and shape of the
granules, as well as performance of the formulation in the
field, depend on the granulation process used. Among the

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CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

36
Components used in a WG formulation Suggestions for types of stability tests:
The use of surfactants is required in all granulation processes a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
because they help mill the AI, provide lubrication between day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
the particles to reduce friction and enable the dispersion of when development begins and if there are many options
granules in water at the moment of application. to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
Normally, this type of formula contains:
materials available.
AI 500-900 g/kg b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three
Wetting agents 10-30 g/kg
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less
Dispersants 50-200 g/kg flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating
Water 30-100 g/kg long-term formula stability.
Inert loads – kaolin
qs
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
and silica in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
How to develop a WG formulation test conducted for one week.
Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check the Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use
physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure that it a single method during development in order to ensure proper
is compatible with the type of formulation chosen. comparisons between formulations.
The formulation volume necessary depends on the capacity of During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is sealed
the equipment and the type of process chosen. For an initial to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent, leading to
technical evaluation, 100 g of formula is sufficient. error during analysis.
After determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
of the other components is estimated in accordance with the from company to company. Common analyses include
desired characteristics of the final formulation. emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam. However,
it is also important to assess phase separation, pH fluctuations,
Procedure
changes in appearance, the presence of crystals in the formula
The procedure varies according to the technique chosen for and water emulsion, AI degradation and other factors, in order
granulation, but must always ensure that the size of the AI to ensure the best performance throughout the formulation’s
particles is appropriate and that the surfactants, wetting agents intended shelf life.
and dispersant agents selected will enable the manufacturing
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
process, dispersion of the granules in water and suspensibility
Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council (CIPAC)
of the AI upon dilution for application in the field.
test methods.
Methods of analysis Contact your local Dow representative for more information
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess about our diverse product portfolio, application knowledge
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each and customized formulation solutions.
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
as a baseline.

37
 Suggested formulations
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition
to interaction with the other components of the formula.
Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every
region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service Group in
your region for any additional, relevant regulatory information.

50% Thifluzaimide WG

Function Product Weight (%)

AI Thifluzamide* 50.0
TRITON™ HW-1000
Wetting agent 2.5
Surfactant
POWERBLOX™ SN
Dispersant 1.0
Dispersant

POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 4.5
D-305 Dispersant

Filler Urea* 2.0

Calcium Carbonate
Filler to 100.0
(CaCO3)*

80% Tebuconazole WG

Function Product Weight (%)

AI Tebuconazole* 80.0
TERGITOL™ W-610
Wetting agent 2.0
Surfactant
POWERBLOX™ SN
Dispersant .04
Dispersant

POWERBLOX™
Dispersant 5.0
D-518 Dispersant

Filler CaCO3* to 100.0

*Product not marketed by Dow

38
 SP
Water soluble
powder

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017). 39
 SP Water soluble powder

Description Components used in an SP formulation

According to CropLife International, a water soluble powder Normally, this type of formula contains:
(SP) is “a powder formulation to be applied as a true solution
of the active ingredient after dissolution in water, but which One or more
may contain insoluble inert ingredients.”(1) water soluble AIs
200-800 g/kg
at the application
It is commonly recommended that the formulation achieves concentration
a minimum of 99.9 percent m/m pass through a wet 150 mm Wetting agents 30-150 g/kg
screen. Additionally, the solubility of the active ingredient (AI)
Filler 100-700 g/kg
in water at 30°C is typically above 98 percent m/m.
Powder antifoam 10-50 g/kg
Benefits
• Low formulation cost
How to develop an SP formulation
• Straightforward manufacturing process Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
• Rapid wetting the physical and chemical characteristics of the AI(s) to
• Low foam formation when compared to soluble ensure compatibility with the type of formulation chosen.
concentrate (SL) The formulation volume necessary depends on the capacity
• Excellent stability for AI of the equipment and type of process chosen. For an initial
• Reduced formation can help reduce packaging waste technical evaluation, 100 g of formula is sufficient.
(water soluble packaging can be used for SP)
• Possibility of formulating with high AI content After determining the concentration of the AI(s), the concentration
of the other components is estimated in accordance with the
Criteria for an SP formulation desired characteristics of the final formulation.
The AI needs to be soluble in water at the application Procedure
concentration and needs to be in the form of a powder.
The inert ingredients do not have to be soluble in water, In a powder mixer or a container in which mixing may be
but a miscibility test with the inerts and the AI is necessary. conducted manually, mix the powder AI(s), the filler and
Nonetheless, for better solution stability we recommend the powder surfactants, ensuring a homogeneous system with
use of water soluble inert ingredients. similar particle sizes is achieved.

As the AI is to be dissolved, there is no need for its An amount of 100 g of formula is sufficient to assess its
micronization. It is only necessary to ensure that the AI has physical-chemical characteristics.
a particle size that is compatible with the other formulation
components to avoid particle segregation and for improved
formulation homogeneity.
Ideally, one should use all inert agents in a powder form.
Since the AIs can be hygroscopic, we recommend the use of
inert agents that absorb humidity, such as precipitated silica,
to avoid clumping.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

40
Methods of analysis
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country
as a baseline.
Suggestions for types of stability tests:
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
when development begins and if there are many options
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
materials available.
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less
flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating
long-term formula stability.
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week.
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use
a single method during development in order to ensure proper
comparisons between formulations.
During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is sealed
to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent, leading to
error during analysis.
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
from company to company. Common analyses include
emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam. However,
it is also important to assess phase separation, pH fluctuations,
changes in appearance, the presence of crystals in the formula
and water emulsion, AI degradation and other factors, in order
to ensure the best performance throughout the formulation’s
intended shelf life.
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(CIPAC) test methods.
Contact your local Dow representative for more information
about our diverse product portfolio, application knowledge
and customized formulation solutions..

41
 WP
Wettable powder

42
WP Wettable powder

Description Components used in a a WP formulation

According to CropLife International, a wettable powder (WP) In WP formulations, in addition to the AI, the presence of
is “a powder formulation to be applied as a suspension after wetting agents is required in order to ensure wettability of the
dispersion in water.”(1) AI upon dilution in water at the moment of application in the
field. The presence of dispersant agents is also necessary
It is commonly recommended that the formulation achieves a
to ensure that the AI remains suspended in water in the
minimum of 60 percent suspensibility m/m for fungicides and
application tank, prevent clogging of nozzles and screens and
50 percent m/m for all other pesticide classes. The formula
avoid over- or under-dosing. A solid filler is also necessary
should reach a minimum of 98 percent m/m pass through
in order to adjust the balance of the formulation. Other
a wet sieve screen of 75 mm. Additionally, it should have
ingredients, such as antifoam agents or rheology modifiers,
maximum wettability (dissolution) time of one minute in water
may be necessary.
at room temperature.
Normally, this type of formula contains:
Benefits
• High active ingredient (AI) content AI 500-900 g/kg
• Reduced formation can help reduce packaging waste Wetting agents 10-50 g/kg
(water soluble packaging can be used with WP)
Dispersants 50-200 g/kg
• Lower manufacturing cost
• Extended shelf life due to physical stability of formula and Inert filler qs
chemical stability of the AI
• Potential for low foam How to develop a WP formulation
• Readily compatible with other types of formulations in Prior to initiating formulation development, one must check
tank mixtures the physical-chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure that
• Simple to blend with different AIs it is compatible with the type of formulation chosen.

Criteria for an WP formulation The formulation volume necessary depends on the capacity
of the equipment and type of process chosen. For an initial
In order to develop a good WP, we recommend that the AI technical evaluation, 100 g of formula is sufficient.
meets following the requirements:
After determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration
• Powder form of the other components is estimated in accordance with the
• High hardness to enable micronization desired characteristics of the final formulation.
• Low hygroscopicity
• The denser the AI is, the smaller the particle size must be Procedure
in order to prevent sedimentation In a powder mixer (which can be a bench top dry mill or
a simple powder stirrer), mix the solid ingredients. If there
is any liquid material, spray or sprinkle it over the powder
under agitation in order to ensure homogeneity and prevent
agglomeration. The components must be thoroughly mixed
and similar particle sizes should be achieved.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

43
 Methods of analysis Suggested formulations
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country to interaction with the other components of the formula.
as a baseline. Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
Suggestions for types of stability tests: Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every
region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service Group in
a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14-
your region for any additional, relevant regulatory information.
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
when development begins and if there are many options
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and 80% Tebuconazole WP
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw
materials available. Function Product Weight (%)

b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which AI Tebuconazole* 80.0

the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three TRITON™ W-610
Wetting agent 2.0
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less Surfactant
flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating POWERBLOX™ SN
Dispersant 4.0
long-term formula stability. Dispersant

c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles Filler Silica* to 100.0
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week.
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use
a single method during development in order to ensure proper
comparisons between formulations.
During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is sealed
to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent, leading to
error during analysis.
Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
from company to company. Common analyses include
emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam. However,
it is also important to assess phase separation, pH fluctuations,
changes in appearance, the presence of crystals in the formula
and water emulsion, AI degradation and other factors, in order
to ensure the best performance throughout the formulation’s
intended shelf life.
For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(CIPAC) test methods.
Contact your local Dow representative for more information
about our diverse product portfolio, application knowledge
and customized formulation solutions.

*Product not marketed by Dow

44
OD
Oil dispersion

45
 OD Oil dispersion

Description Components of an OD formulation

According to CropLife International, an oil dispersion (OD) is “a In addition to the proper AI characteristics, including a hardness
stable suspension of active ingredient(s) in a water immiscible level that enables grinding of the AI, a vehicle needs to be
fluid, which may contain other dissolved active ingredient(s), chosen in which the AI is to be suspended. This media can be
intended for dilution with water before use.”(1) a vegetable oil, mineral oil, methylated seed oil (MSO) or other
solvent. Surfactants must also be selected that will ensure the
It is commonly recommended that the formulation must be
suspensibility of the AI in the formulation and emulsification
totally dispersible in water, and have a minimum of 98 percent
upon dilution in water at the moment of application in the field.
m/m pass through a wet sieve screen of 75 mm.
Due to the large difference in density between the AI and the
Benefits medium in which it is to be dispersed, the use of rheology
modifiers is required to ensure extended stability.
• Higher active ingredient (AI) stability
• Adjuvant incorporated into the formulation This type of formula typically contains:
• Excellent efficacy in the field
• Possibility of suspending hydrolyzable AIs AI 0.5-40 g/l

Wetting agent 1-5 g/l

Criteria for an OD formulation
Emulsifier 1-5 g/l
To develop an OD, the AI needs to be solid and insoluble in
the medium it is to be suspended in. Normally, one uses this Dispersant 1-5 g/l
type of formulation whenever the AI demonstrates hydrolysis Thickener 1-3 g/l
and may not be suspended in water and/or has difficulty Solvent 0-20 g/l
solubilizing in commonly known solvents.
Plant oil to 100%
Formula: OD (oil dispersion)
How to develop an OD formulation
Prior to initiating the formulation development, check the
physical and chemical characteristics of the AI to ensure that
it is compatible with the type of formulation chosen.
The formulation volume necessary depends on the capacity
of the equipment and process chosen. For an initial technical
evaluation, 300 g of formula is sufficient.
After determining the concentration of the AI, the concentration
of the other components is estimated in accordance with the
desired characteristics of the final formulation.

Procedure
In a container, add around 90 percent of the volume of the
defined liquid media. Under agitation, add the wetting agent,
dispersant and any other liquid components that go into the
composition. During this stage, it is important that all the
OD: A suspension of solid AI(s) with water immiscible fluid (oil) as components have demonstrated they are compatible with
the liquid media and inert formulation components. each other, presenting a homogeneous mixture.
Particle size of the AI must be 20 times smaller than the size
of the milling sphere used to mill the formulation. If the AI
particles are larger, it is important to pass them through a
high-shearing disperser in order to reduce the particle size
and improve milling efficiency.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017).

46
The friction generated during the milling process may raise the During the stability tests, it is important that packaging is sealed
temperature of the formulation. Cooling is necessary during to prevent any possible evaporation of the solvent, leading to
this process in order to prevent AI degradation and alteration of error during analysis.
surfactant behavior. Additional evaluation beyond formulation stability also varies
The ideal quantity of spheres and milling time depends on the from company to company. Common analyses include
particle size distribution and hardness of the AI. Fill the miller emulsion stability, concentration of the AI and foam. However,
chamber with spheres at an initial volume of 80 percent and it is also important to assess phase separation, pH fluctuations,
mill for 15 minutes in a batch miller or one cycle in a continuous changes in appearance, the presence of crystals in the formula
miller. Ideally, particle size should be determined using a and water emulsion, AI degradation and other factors, in order
particle size analyzer every 15 minutes or after each cycle of the to ensure the best performance throughout the formulation’s
continuous miller. Ideal milling is one that does not exceed two intended shelf life.
milling cycles. For further information on all methods of analysis, refer to
To finalize, when the formula reaches the desired particle size Collaborative International Pesticides Analytical Council
(normally less than 10 μm), it may be necessary to deaerate (CIPAC) test methods.
the formula while stirring slowly. After this process, add the Contact your local Dow representative for more information
rheology modifier until reaching the desired viscosity, (between about our diverse product portfolio, application knowledge
2000-4000 cps). Top off with the remaining liquid media. It and customized formulation solutions.
is important to point out that for this type of formulation, it is
essential that the milling beads are very clean and dry in order Suggested formulations
to prevent water contamination in the formula. Accordingly, we
The following are suggested formulas that need to be tested
recommend the use of dedicated milling spheres.
prior to use. The choice of surfactants must always take into
Methods of analysis consideration the source and concentration of the AI, in addition
to interaction with the other components of the formula.
There is no set definition of a single methodology to assess
the accelerated stability of pesticide formulations. Each Regulations may vary by city, state, country or geographic region.
pesticide company defines the analysis most appropriate to Not all ingredients listed may be available or approved for every
their portfolio, complying with the standards of each country region. Please contact the Dow Customer Service Group in
as a baseline. your region for any additional, relevant regulatory information.

Suggestions for types of stability tests:

a. A much employed method of assessing stability is 14- 3% Mesosulforon + 20% Clodinafop-propargyol OD
day stability at 54°C. This is a very practical method
when development begins and if there are many options Function Product Weight (%)
to be assessed, as it is quick and very demanding – and AI Mesosulforon* 3.0
very useful for making a sweep between the range of raw AI Clodinafoppropargyol* 20.0
materials available.
TERGITOL™ 15.S-5
b. Another method is accelerated stability testing in which Wetting agent 5.0
Surfactant
the product is kept in ovens at 50°C and 10°C for a three
TERGITOL™ XD
month period with monthly assessments. This is a less Dispersant 5.0
Surfactant
flexible method and offers greater reliability in evaluating
DOWFAX™ 2A1
long-term formula stability. Anionic 5.0
Surfactant
c. Another method is for the formulation to undergo cycles Rheology modifier Organic Bentonite* 5.0
in which it is subjected to temperatures ranging from low
Vehicle Methyl Oleate* to 100.0
(-10°C or -5°C) to high (45°C, 50°C or 54°C), with each
test conducted for one week.
Since there is no specific methodology, it is important to use
a single method during development in order to ensure proper
comparisons between formulations.

*Product not marketed by Dow

47
 Formulation
charts

48
Formulation charts

Building formulas that work The following pages provide an overview of Dow’s diverse
portfolio of materials for agrichemicals and biocontrol
As the agricultural industry grows to meet increasing
formulations, including:
demands, growing crops safely, efficiently and economically
becomes a greater priority. Losses to insects, weeds and • Wetting agents
disease are simply unacceptable. • Dispersants
• Foam control agents
You can help crop growers minimize those losses – and still
• Adjuvants
meet strict environmental regulations – with formulations that
• Emulsifiers
incorporate products from Dow. With a comprehensive range
• Neutralizers
of formulation components, Dow is positioned to help you
• Solvents
arrive at a customized solution engineered to meet exacting
• Chelating agents
specifications.
• Amines
Dow offers a single source for everything from surfactant
Contact your local Dow representative for more information,
adjuvants for in-can and tank mixes to propylene glycol,
including sampling and regional availability.
amines and chelants. Each product is backed by the
Company’s exceptional technical expertise, providing the
guidance and support needed to create an optimized solution. Stand out in the field with Dow
Many Dow materials also feature low toxicity, helping Meet the challenges of today’s agricultural formulation
formulators deliver products with minimal environmental requirements with:
impact. Through ongoing research and innovation, along
with its extensive global supply network, Dow is consistently • Product performance expertise
improving agrochemical performance and helping the • A diverse portfolio of formulation components
agricultural industry grow. • Global supply capabilities

49
 Nonionic surfactants

Surface
Family Product Molecule CAS number HLB(1) Cloud point(3) Potential formulations(3)
tension(2)

ECOSURF™ EH-3 7.9 30 52 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE, ME

ECOSURF™ EH-6 10.8 30 43 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE, ME

2 Ethyl Hexanol
64366-70-7
Alkoxylates
ECOSURF™ EH-9 12.5 31 64 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE, ME

ECOSURF™ EH-14 (90%) 14.2 31.8 86 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE, ME

ECOSURF™ SA-4 7.5 Dispersible Dispersible EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE, ME

ECOSURF™ SA-7 Seed Oil 9.7 29 37 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE, ME
68937-66-6 /
Fatty Alcohol
69227-22-1
ECOSURF™ SA-9 Alkoxylates 11.1 29 57 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE, ME

ECOSURF™ SA-15 135 33.5 >100 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE, ME

TERGITOL™ 15-S-3 8 Insoluble Insoluble EC, EW, SC, SE, ME, OD

TERGITOL™ 15-S-5 10.5 Dispersible Dispersible EC, EW, SC, SE, ME, OD

TERGITOL™ 15-S-7 12.1 30 37 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME

TERGITOL™ 15-S-9 13.3 30 60 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME

Secondary
TERGITOL™ 15-S-12 Alcohol 84133-50-6 14.5 33 89 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME
Ethoxylates
TERGITOL™ 15-S-15 15.4 36 >100 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME

TERGITOL™ 15-S-20 16.3 38 >100 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME

TERGITOL™ 15-S-30 17.4 43 >100 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME

TERGITOL™ 15-S-40 (70%) 18 45 >100 EC, SC, EW, SE, ME

TERGITOL™ NP-4 8.9 Insoluble Insoluble EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ NP-6 10.9 Insoluble Insoluble EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ NP-7 12 32 20 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ NP-8 12.6 32 43 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ NP-9 12.9 32 54 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ NP-9.5 13.1 32 59 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ NP-10 13.2 33 63 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

Ethoxylates TERGITOL™ NP-11 13.8 34 72 SC, EW, SE, SL
Nonylphenol 9016-45-9 /
TERGITOL™ NP-12 13.8 35 78 SC, EW, SE, SL
Ethoxylates 127087-87-0
TERGITOL™ NP-13 13.9 35 82 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-15 15 41 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-30 17.1 46 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-30 (70%) 17.1 46 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-40 17.8 50 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-40 (70%) 17.8 50 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-50 (70%) 18.2 53 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ NP-70 (70%) 18.7 51 >100 SC, EW, SE, SL

TERGITOL™ TMN-3 8.1 Insoluble Insoluble SC, EW, SE, SL, OD, SE

TERGITOL™ TMN-6 (90%) 13.1 27 36 SC, EW, SE, SL, OD, SE

Branched
Secondary
TERGITOL™ TMN-10 (90%) 60828-78-6 14.4 30 76 SC, EW, SE, SL, OD, SE
Alcohol
TERGITOL™ TMN-100X (90%) Ethoxylates 14.1 27 65 SC, EW, SE, SL, OD, SE

Not applicable due to

TRITON™ HW-1000 10 25.8 EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE
partial solubility in water

TRITON™ X-15 4.9 Insoluble Insoluble EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TRITON™ X-35 7.8 Insoluble Insoluble EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TRITON™ X-45 9.8 29 Dispersible EC, SL, SC, EW, OD, SE

TRITON™ X-100 13.4 33 66 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE

Octylphenol
TRITON™ X-102 9036-19-5 14.4 36 88 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE
Ethoxylates
TRITON™ X-114 12.3 31 25 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE

TRITON™ X-165 (70%) 15.5 39 >100 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE

TRITON™ X-305 (70%) 17.3 49 >100 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE

TRITON™ X-705 (70%) 18.4 44 >100 EC, SL, SC, EW, SE

50
Recommended applications

Excellent emulsifier, soluble in oil, low foam formation, low odor, easy to handle, very low aquatic toxicicological profile. Good emulsifier for OD formulations.

Exceptional humectancy, low foam formation, for SC and SL formulations. Low odor, excellent handling and formulation properties, very low aquatic toxicological profile.

Exceptional humectancy, low foam formation, for SC and SL formulations. Low odor, excellent handling and formulation properties, very low aquatic toxicological profile. Excellent water solubility, no
gel formation.

High HLB, low odor and good humectant profile.

Seed oil-based surfactant, low odor, avoids gel formation. Oil soluble emulsifier with excellent humectant profile, especially for OD formulations.

Seed oil-based surfactant, provides better emulsifier properties for EC formulations. Low odor, avoids gel formation, is quick to dissolve. Excellent humectant.

Seed oil-based surfactant, provides better emulsifier properties for EC formulations. Low odor, avoids gel formation, is quick to dissolve. Excellent humectant.

Seed oil-based surfactant, low odor, avoids gel formation, is quick to dissolve. Excellent humectant and stabilizer for SC formulations.

Excellent compatibility with hydrocarbons. Good humectant and emulsifier for OD formulations.

Excellent compatibility with hydrocarbons. Good humectant and emulsifier for OD formulations.

High humectant and emulsifier capacity. Excellent formulation and handling properties.

High humectant and emulsifier capacity. Excellent formulation and handling properties.

High humectant properties, provides better stability for SC formulations.

High humectant properties, provides better stability for SC formulations.

Excellent emulsion stabilizer, brings stability to temperature cycles and has good handling properties.

Excellent emulsion stabilizer, brings stability to temperature cycles and has good handling properties.

Excellent emulsion stabilizer, brings stability to temperature cycles and has good handling properties.

Excellent oil soluble surfactant, emulsifier with low HLB.

Excellent emulsifier, humectant and stabilizer.

Excellent emulsifier, humectant and stabilizer.

Excellent emulsifier, humectant and stabilizer.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of active ingredients (AIs).

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Gives better stability for formulations, even in processes and applications with high temperatures.

Emulsifier and stabilizer that is highly soluble in water, with high efficacy at high temperatures.

Emulsifier and stabilizer that is highly soluble in water, with high efficacy at high temperatures.

Efficient in high temperatures, emulsifier and stabilizer, highly soluble in water, with humectant properties.

Efficient in high temperatures, emulsifier and stabilizer, highly soluble in water, with humectant properties.

Efficient in high temperatures, emulsifier and stabilizer, highly soluble in water, with humectant properties.

Efficient in high temperatures, emulsifier and stabilizer, highly soluble in water, with humectant properties.

Excellent for oil formulations (i.e., OD) and for waxes, paraffins and silicones.

Agent with excellent humectant and penetrant properties (excellent surface tension reduction), especially for adjuvants and fungicide formulations. Excellent emulsifier for waxes, paraffins, and
silicones.

Penetrant and dispersant for high temperatures. High HLB emulsifier. Low gel range.

Excellent humectant, penetrant and dispersant. Good emulsifier agent.

Excellent emulsifier for waxes, paraffins and silicones.

Excellent oil soluble surfactant, emulsifier with low HLB.

Excellent oil soluble surfactant, emulsifier with low HLB.

Excellent oil soluble surfactant, emulsifier with low HLB.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent humectant and emulsifier, compatible with a large variety of AIs.

Excellent stabilizer and dispersant for emulsions.

Excellent emulsion stabilizer, offering stability for temperature cycles.

Excellent emulsion stabilizers.

51
 Nonionic surfactants

Surface
Family Product Molecule CAS number HLB(1) Cloud point(3) Potential formulations(3)
tension(2)

TRITON™ CG-50 Alkyl — 28.7 >100 SL, EW, SE, ME

Polyglucoside 68515-73-1
TRITON™ CG-110 C8-C10 — 27 >100 SL, EW, SE, ME

Alkyl
68515-73-1 /
TRITON™ CG-425 Polyglucoside — 29 >100 SL, EW, SE, ME
110615-47-9
C10-C14
Alkyl Polyglucosides
Alkyl
TRITON™ CG-600 Polyglucoside 110615-47-9 — 28.7 >100 SL, EW, SE, ME
C10-C12

Alkyl
68515-73-1 /
TRITON™ CG-650 Polyglucoside — 28.7 >100 SL, EW, SE, ME
110615-47-9
C10-C14

TERGITOL™ XH Ethylene Oxide/ — 41 95 EC, SC, SE, EW

Propylene Oxide
TERGITOL™ XJ 9038-95-3 — 36 49 EC, SC, SE, EW, OD
(EO/PO)
TERGITOL™ XD Copolymers — 38 74 EC, SC, SE, EW

Ethylene Oxide/
Propylene Oxide
(EO/ 9038-95-3 /
TERGITOL™ XDLW — 32 74 EC, SC, SE, EW
PO) Copolymers 84133-50-6
+ Alcohol
Ethoxylate

Ethylene TERGITOL™ L-61

Oxide/Propylene 3 40 24 EC, SC, SE, EW, OD
(DOWFAX™ 63N10BRL)
Oxide (EO/PO)
Copolymers TERGITOL™ L-62 7 41 32 EC, SC, SE, EW, OD

TERGITOL™ L-64
15 44 62 EC, SC, SE, EW
(DOWFAX™ 63N40BRL)
Polyalkylene
DOWFAX™ 100N50 9003-11-6 — 36 90.3 EC, SC, SE, EW
Glycol
TERGITOL™ P-104 13 33 80 EC, SC, SE, EW

TERGITOL™ P-105 13.8 39 90 EC, SC, SE, EW

TERGITOL™ L-81 2 36 20 EC, SC, SE, EW

TERGITOL™ L-101 1 33 18 EC, SC, SE, EW

(1)
Hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) range: <10 water-in-oil emulsifier, >10 oil-in-water emulsifier, 10-15 good wetting, 12-15 detergents
(2)
Surface tension: dynes/cm at 1% actives, 25°C
(3)
Cloud point (°C, 1% aqueous solution)
(4)
EC = emulsifiable concentrate; SL = soluble concentrate; SC = suspension concentrate; EW = emulsion: oil in water; OD = oil dispersion; SE = suspo-emulsion; ME = micro-emulsion

52
Recommended applications

Soluble in high alkaline solutions, low irritability, excellent humectant, high electrolyte stability. Ideal for formulations with glyphosate and/or nutrients.

Soluble in high alkaline solutions, low irritability, excellent humectant, high electrolyte stability. Ideal for formulations with glyphosate and/or nutrients.

Soluble in high alkaline solutions, low irritability, excellent humectant, high electrolyte stability. Ideal for formulations with glyphosate and/or nutrients.

Soluble in high alkaline solutions, low irritability, excellent humectant, high electrolyte stability. Ideal for formulations with glyphosate and/or nutrients.

Soluble in high alkaline solutions, low irritability, excellent humectant, high electrolyte stability. Ideal for formulations with glyphosate and/or nutrients.

Steric stabilizer, increases stability and suspensibility. More polar characteristics when compared to TERGITOL™ XD.

Steric stabilizer, increases stability and suspensibility. Less polar characteristics when compared to TERGITOL™ XD.

Excellent steric stabilizer and dispersant. Offers superior stability and suspensibility.

Offers superior stability and suspensibility, with a humectant property. Handles better because it is a liquid.

Dispersant agent with efficient foam control.

Dispersant agent with efficient foam control.

Excellent steric stabilizer and dispersant. Offers superior stability and suspensibility.

Excellent steric stabilizer and dispersant. Offers enhanced stability and suspensibility.

Excellent steric stabilizer and dispersant. Offers enhanced stability and suspensibility

Excellent steric stabilizer and dispersant. Offers enhanced stability and suspensibility

Dispersant agent with efficient foam control.

Dispersant agent with efficient foam control.

53
 Nonionic silicone polyether surfactants or “superwetters”

Surface tension (dynes/cm)

Active Viscosity HLP- Cloud Flash point
Product Molecule Properties
(%) (cSt)(1) EO(2) point(3) (°C[°F])(4)
0.100% 0.010% 0.001%

Low molecular weight nonionic silicone polyether

XIAMETER™ surfactant. Excellent surface tension reduction.
OFX-5211 Performance enhancer for agricultural chemicals,
Trisiloxane 100 41 11.5 21 23.4 36.5 < RT(5) 101 (214)
Superwetting especially water-soluble broadleaf herbicides,
Agent insecticides, fungicides, and plant growth regulators.
Rapid spreading and wetting for agricultural chemicals.

Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) Listed

low molecular weight nonionic silicone polyether
surfactant, developed to improve the wetting, spreading,
SYLGARD™ and penetration of agricultural chemicals. Excellent
Trisiloxane 100 28 10.7 22 23.7 37.6 < RT(5) 100 (212)
OFX-0309 Fluid surface tension reduction. Recommended to enhance
performance of agricultural chemicals, especially water-
soluble broadleaf herbicides and insecticides, fungicides,
and plant growth regulators.

(1)
Viscosity at 25°C (77°F) Calculated by wt% EO/5 method
(2)
1.0% in H2O, °C (°F) (4)Flash point closed cup method (5)RT = Room Temperature
(3)

Ionic surfacants

Surface tension(1)
CAS Recommended
Family Product Molecule Properties
number applications(4)
Neutral(2) Alkaline(3)

Excellent solubility and stability in acid systems,

alkaline, high electrolyte concentration and in SL, EC, EW, ME,
DOWFAX™ 2A1 119345-04-9 34 35
other oxidizing systems. Dispersant, emulsion and Liquid Fertilizers
nutrient solution stabilizer.

Excellent solubility and stability in acid systems,

36445-71-3 / alkaline, high electrolyte concentration and in SL, EC, EW, ME,
DOWFAX™ 3B2 37 38
70146-13-3 other oxidizing systems. Dispersant, emulsion and Liquid Fertilizers
nutrient solution stabilizer.

Excellent solubility and stability in acid systems,

Alkyldiphenyl Alkyldiphenyloxide 65143-89-7/ alkaline, high electrolyte concentration and in SL, EC, EW, ME,
DOWFAX™ 8390 44 46
Oxides Disulfonate Salts 70191-76-3 other oxidizing systems. Dispersant, emulsion and Liquid Fertilizers
nutrient solution stabilizer.

Excellent solubility and stability in acid systems,

alkaline, high electrolyte concentration and in SL, EC, EW, ME,
DOWFAX™ C6L 147732-60-3 34 34
other oxidizing systems. Dispersant, emulsion and Liquid Fertilizers
nutrient solution stabilizer.

Excellent solubility and stability in acid systems,

36445-71-3/ alkaline, high electrolyte concentration and in SL, EC, EW, ME,
DOWFAX™ C10L 35 37
70146-13-3 other oxidizing systems. Dispersant, emulsion and Liquid Fertilizers
nutrient solution stabilizer.

TRITON™ GR-5M 26 NR(5) Excellent humectant, emulsifier and dispersant. SL, SC, EW, ME
Dioctyl Dioctyl
577-11-7
Sulfosuccinate Sulfosuccinates Excellent emulsifier and dispersant, and is oil
TRITON™ GR-7M Insoluble Insoluble EC, OD
soluble.

TRITON™ H-55 45 53 Hydrotope, stable in acid and alkaline conditions. SL, EC

Phosphate
Phosphate Esters By request
Esters
TRITON™ H-66 45 41 Hydrotope, stable in acid and alkaline conditions. SL, EC

Naphthalene
Naphthalene POWERBLOX™
Condensate 9084-06-4 — — Good dispersant agent. Powder presentation. SC, WP, WG, SE
Condensates SN
Sodium Salt

TERGITOL™ SL, SC, WP, WG,

Sulfonates Olefin Sulfonate By request — — Good dispersant agent. Powder presentation.
W-610 SE

POWERBLOX™
— — Dispersant agent SC, EC, EW, ME
D-205

Polycarboxylate POWERBLOX™ Polycarboxylate

By request — — High efficiency dispersant agent SC, EC, EW, ME
Polymers SP-20 Copolymers

POWERBLOX™
Dispersant agent SC, EC, EW, ME
D-305

(1)
Surface tension: dynes/cm at 1% actives, 25°C (2) Neutral pH 7 (distilled water) (3) Alkaline pH 12.5 (sodium hydroxide solution) (4) EC = emulsifiable concentrate; SL = soluble concentrate; SC
= suspension concentrate; EW = emulsion: oil in water; OD = oil dispersion; SE = suspo-emulsion; ME = micro-emulsion; WG = water dispersible granule; WP = wettable powder
(5)
NR = Not Recommended

54
Oxygenated solvents

Solubility(2)
CAS Surface Flash point
Family Product Molecule Density(3) @ 20°C
number tension(1) (°C) Solvent in Water
water solvent

n-Propanol n-Propanol 71-23-8 23.8 24 ∞ ∞ 0.804

n-Pentanol n-Pentanol 71-41-0 25.7 48 2 9.5 0.814

Primary Amyl Alcohol - 137-32-6 /

Alcohols Isomeric mixture 23.7 46 1.7 9.2 0.814
Isomeric Mixture 71-41-0

2-Methyl Butanol 2-Methyl Butanol 137-32-6 25.7 43 2.2 8.3 0.817

2-Ethylhexanol 2-Ethylhexanol 104-76-7 26.9 72 0.07 2.6 0.832

Propionic acid Propionic acid 79-09-4 26.2 52 ∞ ∞ 0.995

Valeric acid Pentanoic acid 109-52-4 26.1 84 2.4 1.3 0.939

Acids
109-52-4/
Isopentanoic acid Isopentanoic acid — 77 3.2 — 0.937
116-53-0

2-Ethylhexanoic acid 2-Ethylhexanoic acid 149-57-5 28.7 124 0.1 1.4 0.908

n-Propyl Acetate n-Propyl Acetate 109-60-4 24.4 14 2 2.6 0.886

Isopropyl Acetate Isopropyl Acetate 108-21-4 22.3 23 —? 1.9 0.872

n-Butyl Acetate n-Butyl Acetate 123-86-4 25.3 22 0.7 1.9 0.881

Isobutyl Acetate Isobutyl Acetate 110-19-0 23.4 18 0.66 1.1 0.87

Primary Amyl Acetate - 628-63-7/

Isomeric Mixture 25.8 25 0.2 0.9 0.874
Isomeric Mixture 624-41-9
Esters
UCAR™ n-Propyl Propionate Propanoic Acid Propyl Ester 106-36-5 24.7 24 0.5 — 0.88

UCAR™ n-Butyl Propionate Propanoic Acid Butyl Ester 590-01-2 25.3 38 0.2 <0.02 0.875

UCAR™ n-Pentyl Propionate Propanoic Acid Pentyl Ester 624-54-4 26.4 57 <0.05 <0.03 0.872

3-Ethoxypropionic Acid Ethyl

UCAR™ Ester EEP 763-69-9 28.1 60 5.2 2.2 0.948
Ester

Isobutyric Acid 2,2,4-

POWERBLOX™ SV-17 By request 30.7 120 0.12 2.9 0.945
triMethyl-1,3- Specialty Ester
(1)
Surface tension (dynes/cm) at 20°C
(2)
Solubility (wt% at 20°C)
(3)
Density (g/cm3)
(4)
Solubility expressed in g/l at 20°C
∞ Miscible

55
 Glycol ethers

Flash Solubility(2)
Surface Density(3)
Family Product Molecule CAS number point Solvent Water
tension(1) @ 25°C
(°C) in water solvent

DOWANOL™ PM Propylene Glycol Methyl Ether 107-98-2 27.7 31(4) ∞ ∞ 0.916

DOWANOL™ PMA Propylene Glycol Methyl Ether Acetate 108-65-6 28.9 42(5) 16.0 3.0 0.963

DOWANOL™ DPM Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether 34590-94-8 28.8 75 (4)

∞ ∞ 0.948

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether

DOWANOL™ DPMA 88917-22-0 27.3 86(5) 16.0 3.5 0.974
Acetate

DOWANOL™ TPM Tripropylene Glycol Methyl Ether 25498-49-1 30 121(5) ∞ ∞ 0.962

DOWANOL™ PnP Propylene Glycol n-Propyl Ether 1569-01-3 25.4 48(4) ∞ ∞ 0.88
P-Series
Glycol Ethers DOWANOL™ DPnP Dipropylene Glycol n-Propyl Ether 29911-27-1 27.8 88 (4)
19.6 20.3 0.916

DOWANOL™ PnB Propylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether 5131-66-8 27.5 63(4) 5.5 15.5 0.875

DOWANOL™ DPnB Dipropylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether 29911-28-2 28.4 100(4) 4.5 12.0 0.907

DOWANOL™ TPnB Tripropylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether 55934-93-5 28.8 126 (4)
4.5 8.0 0.927

DOWANOL™ PPh Propylene Glycol Phenyl Ether 770-35-4 38.1 126(4) 1.0 6.0 1.059

DOWANOL™ PGDA Propylene Glycol Diacetate 623-84-7 32.9 86(5) 7.4 4.1 1.051

PROGLYDE™ DMM Dipropylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether 111109-77-4 26.3 65 (4)

35.0 4.5 0.899

Propyl CELLOSOLVE™
Ethylene Glycol n-Propyl Ether 2807-30-9 26.3 57(5) ∞ ∞ 0.907
Solvent

Butyl CELLOSOLVE™
Ethylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether 111-76-2 27.4 65(5) ∞ ∞ 0.898
Solvent

Hexyl CELLOSOLVE™
Ethylene Glycol Hexyl Ether 112-25-4 27.4 99(5) 0.88 17.7 0.883
Solvent

CARBITOL™ Solvent Diethylene Glycol Ethyl Ether 111-90-0 31.8 102(5) ∞ ∞ 0.986

Methyl CARBITOL™
Diethylene Glycol Methyl Ether 111-77-3 34.8 92(5) ∞ ∞ 1.017
Solvent
E-Series
Glycol Ethers Butyl CARBITOL™
Diethylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether 112-34-5 30 99(5) ∞ ∞ 0.948
Solvent

Hexyl CARBITOL™
Diethylene Glycol Hexyl Ether 112-59-4 29.2 126(5) 2.0 53.4 0.928
Solvent

Methoxytriglycol Triethylene Glycol Methyl Ether 112-35-6 36.4 135(5) ∞ ∞ 1.043

Ethoxytriglycol Triethylene Glycol Ethyl Ether 112-50-5 33.7 129(5) ∞ ∞ 1.018

Butoxytriglycol Triethylene Glycol n-Butyl Ether 143-22-6 29.8 138 (5)

∞ ∞ 0.984

DOWANOL™ EPh Glycol

Ethylene Glycol Phenyl Ether 122-99-6 42 121(4) 2.5 9.0 1.106
Ether

(1)
Surface tension (dynes/cm) at 20°C
(2)
Solubility (wt% at 20°C)
(3)
Density (g/cm3)
(4)
Setaflash method (closed cup)
(5)
Tag Closed Cup method (TCC)
∞ Miscible

56
Amines

Freezing
Family Product Molecule CAS number
point (°C)

Monoethanolamine (MEA) Monoethanolamine 141-43-5 10

Diethanolamine (DEA) Diethanolamine 111-42-2 28

Ethanolamines Triethanolamine (TEA) 99% Triethanolamine 102-71-6 21

Triethanolamine (TEA) LFG 85 Triethanolamine 102-71-6 -5

Triethanolamine (TEA) Commercial Grade Triethanolamine 102-71-6 15.8

Ethylenediamine (EDA) Ethylenediamine 107-15-3 11

E-Series Glycol Diethylenetriamine (DETA) Diethylenetriamine 111-40-0 -39

Ethers
Piperazine 68% Aq. (PIP) Piperazine 110-85-0 48

Aminoethylethanolamine (AEEA) Aminoethylethanolamine 111-41-1 -45

Monoisopropanolamine (MIPA) Monoisopropanolamine 78-96-6 3

Isopropanolamines Diisopropanolamine (DIPA) Diisopropanolamine 110-97-4 44

Triisopropanolamine (TIPA) 99% Triisopropanolamine 122-20-3 44

Chelants

Metal complexation capacity pH

Chelating
(chelant mass/metal mass) (saturated
CAS % power
Family Product Molecule Ca Mg
number weight (mg,
Fe Al Mn
Ca Mg Fe Al Mn CaCO3)
solution)

H4EDTA, EDTA -
VERSENEX™ Acid Ethylenediaminetetraacetic 60-00-4 99 7.4 12.2 5.3 4.7 5.4 339 2.5-3
Acid

Na4EDTA, EDTA -
VERSENEX™ 100 Ethylenediaminetetraacetic 64-02-8 39 25 41.2 17.9 15.8 18.2 102 11-11.8
Tetrasodium

(NH4)2EDTA - 20824-
VERSENEX™
Chelants Ethylenediaminetetraacetic 45 18.2 30.1 13.1 11.5 13.3 137 4.6-5.3
Diammonium EDTA 56-0
(EDTA) Diammonium

VERSENEX™ (NH4)4EDTA - 22473-

Tetraammonium Ethylenediaminetetraacetic 38 38 31.6 13.8 12.1 14 130 9-9.5
EDTA (EDTA) Tetraammonium 78-5

Na5DTPA, DTPA -
VERSENEX™ 80 Diethylenetriaminepentaacetic 140-01-2 40.2 40.2 51.5 22.4 19.7 22.8 80 11-11.8
Pentasodium

57
 Propylene oxide and polyglycols

Molecular Freezing Viscosity

Family Product Molecule CAS number
weight point (°C) (cSt)

Propylene Glycol, Industrial Grade

Propylene Glycol 57-55-6 76.1 Super cools 45.6(1)
(PGI)
Propylene
Oxide

Glycol
Dipropylene Glycol, Regular Grade
Dipropylene Glycol 25265-71-8 134.2 Super cools 75(1)
(DPG)

POLYGLYCOL P 425 425 -45 26(2)

POLYGLYCOL P1000TB 1000 -25 80(2)

POLYGLYCOL P1200 1200 -41 153(2)

Propylene Glycol Polypropylene Glycol 25322-69-4
POLYGLYCOL P2000 2000 -31 143(2)

POLYGLYCOL P3000 3000 -28 255(2)

POLYGLYCOL P4000 4000 -20 438(2)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 200 190 210

(1)
-65 4.3(3)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 300 285(1) 315 -11 5.8(3)

Polyglycols

CARBOWAX™ PEG 400 380(1) 420 4-8 7.3(3)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 540 — 20-25 15.1(3)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 600 570(1) 630 37-40 10.8(3)

Polyethylene Glycol 25322-68-3
CARBOWAX™ PEG 1000 950-1050 37-40 17.2(3)

Polyethylene Glycol CARBOWAX™ PEG 1450 1305-1595 17 26.5(3)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 3350 3015-3685 53-57 90.8(3)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 4000 3600-4400 — 140.4(3)

CARBOWAX™ PEG 8000 7000-9000 60-63 821.7(3)

CARBOWAX™ MPEG 350 335-365 (-5)-10 3.9(3)

CARBOWAX™ MPEG 550 Metoxypolyethyleneglycol 9004-74-4 525-575 15-25 6.5(3)

CARBOWAX™ MPEG 750 715-785 27-32 10.3(3)

(1)
25°C
(2)
100°F
(3)
100°C

Isocyanates

Isocyanate
Family Product Molecule CAS number State form Functionality equivalency
(mass)

Polymethylene
Polymeric MDI PAPI™ 27 MDI 9016-87-9 Liquid 2.7 134
Polyphenyl Diisocyanate

Toluene Diisocyanate
TDI VORANATE™ T80 TDI 26471-62-5 Liquid 2 87.1
Type I TDI

58
Silicone antifoams

Performance

Product Active After low After high

Product At high
type (%) Persistency(1) Knockdown(1) At low pH pH aging pH aging
pH
(at neutral pH) (at neutral pH) (pH<3) (10 days @ (10 days
(pH>13)
pH<3) @ pH>13)

XIAMETER™ ACP-1000 Antifoam Compound 100 — —

XIAMETER™ ACP-0100 Antifoam Compound 100 — —

Compound
XIAMETER™ ACP-1500 Antifoam Compound 100 — —

XIAMETER™ ACP-1400 Antifoam Compound 100 — —

XIAMETER™ AFE-1510 Antifoam Emulsion 10 — —

XIAMETER™ AFE-1520 Antifoam Emulsion 20 — —

XIAMETER™ AFE-1530 Antifoam Emulsion 30 — —

XIAMETER™ AFE-2210 Antifoam Emulsion 10 — — — — — —

Emulsion XIAMETER™ AFE-0700 Antifoam Emulsion 10

XIAMETER™ AFE-1410 Antifoam Emulsion 10 — —

XIAMETER™ AFE-0010 Antifoam Emulsion

10 — —
Food Grade

XIAMETER™ AFE-0310 Antifoam Emulsion 30

XIAMETER™ AFE-3101 Antifoam Emulsion 20

Powder XIAMETER™ ACP-1920 Powdered Antifoam 20 — —

Contact your local Dow representative for sampling and regional availability.
(1)
Compared to other U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved antifoams.
Compound: Silicone fluids containing a suspension of finely powdered silica to enhance their defoaming
efficiency. Primarily used in nonaqueous foaming systems.
Emulsion: Emulsified antifoam compound in water. Good option for controlling foam in aqueous applications.
Powder: Solid powdered compound antifoam. Can be added to dry products to prevent foaming when
liquids are added.
Enhanced performance
Good performance
Limited or no loss of performance
Loss of performance
— Not evaluated

59
 Definitions
of pesticide
formulation types

60
Definitions of pesticide
formulation types
A pesticide formulation, whether it is an insecticide, herbicide Tablet (TB): Pre-formed solids of uniform shape and
or fungicide, needs to be formulated so that the active dimensions, usually circular, with either flat or convex faces,
ingredient (AI) can be effectively applied on the field and the distance between faces being less than the diameter.
delivered to the target for maximum efficacy. The formulation Combined formulation of CS and SC (ZC): A stable
also ensures chemical and storage stability. Each formulation suspension of capsules and active ingredient(s) in fluid,
is optimized for specific AI and formulation types. normally intended for dilution with water before use.
The section below defines the most common types of Combined formulation of CS and SE (ZE): A fluid,
pesticide formulations, as defined by CropLife International.(1) heterogeneous formulation consisting of a stable dispersion
of active ingredient(s) in the form of capsules, solid particles
Formulation types for dilution in water
and fine globules in a continuous water phase, normally
Capsule suspension (CS): A stable suspension of capsules intended for dilution with water before use.
in a fluid, normally intended for dilution with water before use.
Combined formulation of CS and EW (ZW): A fluid,
Dispersible concentrate (DC): A liquid homogeneous heterogeneous formulation consisting of a stable dispersion
formulation to be applied as a solid dispersion after dilution of active ingredient(s) in the form of capsules and fine
in water. (NOTE: There are some formulations which have globules in a continuous water phase, normally intended for
characteristics intermediate between DC and EC). dilution with water before use. Special Solid Formulation
Emulsifiable concentrate (EC): A liquid, homogeneous Types tablet for direct application (DT): Formulation in the
formulation to be applied as an emulsion after dilution in water. form of tablets to be applied individually and directly in the
Emulsion: Water in Oil (EO): A fluid, heterogeneous field, and/or bodies of water, without preparation of a spraying
formulation consisting of a solution of pesticide in water solution or dispersion.
dispersed as fine globules in a continuous organic liquid phase. Water soluble tablets (ST): Formulation in form of tablets to
Emulsion, oil in water (EW): A fluid, heterogeneous be used individually, to form a solution of the active ingredient
formulation consisting of a solution of pesticide in an organic after disintegration in water. The formulation may contain
liquid dispersed as fine globules in a continuous water phase. water-insoluble formulants.

Micro-emulsion (ME): A clear to opalescent, oil and water Water dispersible tablets (WT): Formulation in the form of
containing liquid, to be applied directly or after dilution tablets to be used individually, to form a dispersion of the
in water, when it may form a diluted micro-emulsion or a active ingredient after disintegration in water.
conventional emulsion. Water dispersible granule (WG): A formulation consisting
Oil dispersion or concentrated suspension in oil (OD): A of granules to be applied after disintegration and dispersion
stable suspension of active ingredient(s) in a water immiscible in water.
fluid, which may contain other dissolved active ingredient(s), Wettable powder (WP): A powder formulation to be applied
intended for dilution with water before use. as a suspension after dispersion in water.
Suspension Cconcentrate (SC): A stable suspension of Briquette (BR): Solid block designed for controlled release of
active ingredient(s) with water as the fluid, intended for active ingredient into water.
dilution with water before use.
Emulsifiable gel (GL): A gelatinized formulation to be applied
Suspo-emulsion (SE): A fluid, heterogeneous formulation as an emulsion in water.
consisting of a stable dispersion of active ingredient(s) in the
Water soluble gel (GW): A gelatinized formulation to be
form of solid particles and of water non-miscible fine globules
applied as an aqueous solution.
in a continuous water phase.
Emulsifiable granule (EG): A granular formulation, which
Soluble granule (SG): A formulation consisting of granules to be
may contain water-insoluble formulants, to be applied as
applied as a true solution of the active ingredient after dissolution
an oil-in-water emulsion of the active ingredient(s) after
in water, but which may contain insoluble inert ingredients.
disintegration in water.
Soluble concentrate (SL): A clear to opalescent liquid to be
Emulsifiable powder (EP): A powder formulation, which may
applied as a solution of the active ingredient after dilution in
contain water-insoluble formulants, to be applied as an oil-in-
water. The liquid may contain water-insoluble formulants.
water emulsion of the active ingredient(s) after dispersion in water.
Water soluble powder (SP): A powder formulation to be applied
as a true solution of the active ingredient after dissolution in
water, but which may contain insoluble inert ingredients.

(1)
CropLife International. Technical Monograph No. 2 – Catalogue of pesticide formulation types and international coding system, p. 5 (7th Edition, March 2017). 61
 Formulations for dilution in organic solvents Hot fogging concentrate (HN): A formulation suitable for
application by hot fogging equipment, either directly or after
Oil miscible flowable concentrate (oil miscible
dilution.
suspension) (OF): A stable suspension of active ingredient(s)
in a fluid intended for dilution in an organic liquid before use. Cold fogging concentrate (KN): A formulation suitable for
application by cold fogging equipment, either directly or after
Oil miscible liquid (OL): A liquid, homogeneous formulation
dilution.
to be applied as a homogeneous liquid after dilution in an
organic liquid. Plant rodlet (PR): A small rodlet, usually a few centimeters in
length and a few millimeters in diameter, containing an active
Oil dispersible powder (OP): A powder formulation to be
ingredient.
applied as a suspension after dispersion in an organic liquid.
Paste (PA): Water-based, film-forming composition.
Formulations for direct application
Bait (ready to use) (RB): A formulation designed to attract
Dry powder (DP): A free-flowing powder suitable for dusting. and be eaten by the target pests.
Granulate (GR): A free-flowing solid formulation of a defined Vapor releasing product (VP): A formulation containing one
granule size range ready for use. or more volatile active ingredients, the vapors of which are
Oil for spraying/spreading (SO): Formulation designed to released into the air. Evaporation rate is normally controlled
form a surface layer on application to water. by using suitable formulations and/or dispensers.

Ultra low volume suspension (SU): A suspension ready fr Grease (GS): Very viscous formulation based on oil or fat.
use through ultra low volume (ULV) equipment. Others (XX): Temporary categorization of all other
Ultra low volume (UL): A homogeneous liquid ready for use formulations not listed above.
through ULV equipment.
Adjuvants for agrochemicals
Contact powder (CP): Rodenticidal or insecticidal
Adjuvant: Formulation which can be used with a pesticide
formulation in powder form for direct application. Formerly
to improve the pesticide’s efficacy. Adjuvant formulations
known as tracking powder (TP).
may contain components such as: wetting and spreading
Tablet for direct application (DT): Formulation in the form of agents, dispersants, foam suppressants, penetrating agents,
tablets to be applied individually and directly in the field, and/ evaporation rate regulators, pH regulators, solvents and
or bodies of water, without preparation of a spraying solution solubilizers.
or dispersion.
Spreader: Formulation that reduces interfacial tension
Suspension concentrate for direct application (SD): A between two surrounding surfaces, liquid and solid, modifying
stable suspension of active ingredient(s) in a fluid, which the wetting, dispersability, spreading and/or emulsification
may contain other dissolved active ingredient(s), intended for properties.
direct application, to rice paddies, for example.
Sticker spreader: Formulation that, in addition to its
Any other liquid (AL): A liquid not yet designated by a spreading characteristics, increases the adhesiveness of a
specific code, to be applied undiluted. pesticide on the desired target.
Any other powder (AP): A powder not yet designated by a
specific code, to be applied undiluted.

Special formulation types

Aerosol dispenser (AE): A container-held formulation which
is dispersed generally by a propellant as fine droplets or
particles upon the actuation of a valve.
Smoke generator (FU): A combustible formulation, generally
solid, which upon ignition releases the active ingredient(s) in
the form of smoke.
Liquefied gas under pressure (GA): A gas packed in
pressure bottle or pressure tank.
Gas generating product (GE): A formulation which generates
a gas by chemical reaction.

62
Product one pagers

63
 ECOSURF™ EH surfactants
Unlock the power of your formulation
ECOSURF™ EH Surfactants offer benefits such as wetting, rapid The rapid dissolution rate of ECOSURF™ EH-6 compared to
dissolution, rapid foam collapse, solubilization, low odor and common nonionic surfactants in cold water is shown in Figure 1.
adjuvancy to both in-can and tank mix adjuvant formulations Adjuvants are broadly defined as substances which
for pesticides. These benefits, along with low aquatic toxicity, improve the performance of an active ingredient (AI). In
ready biodegradability and a range of hydrophilic-lipophilic order to evaluate the adjuvant performance of ECOSURF™
balance (HLB) options, position ECOSURF™ EH Surfactants for EH Surfactants, they were applied with glyphosate
widespread use. The family of ECOSURF™ EH products consists isopropylamine (IPA) to giant foxtail in the presence of 1
of ECOSURF™ EH-3, ECOSURF™ EH-6, ECOSURF™ EH-9, percent ammonium sulfate (AMS). For comparison purposes,
ECOSURF™ EH-9 (90%) and ECOSURF™ EH-14. tallow amine ethoxylate with 20 EO (TAE20) was also included
in the study. When used with glyphosate, the ECOSURF™
Suitable applications
EH Surfactants tested improved the control of giant foxtail as
• Tank mix adjuvant shown in Figure 2. The adjuvant eff ect improves as EO levels
• In-can adjuvant increase. The right balance of hydrophobe and hydrophile is
• Wetting surfactant crucial to achieving optimum results.

Typical properties Availability

Agricultural tank mix adjuvant formulations are applied under Contact your local Dow representative for sampling and
a wide variety of conditions with spring applications often regional availability. ECOSURF™ Surfactants are cleared for
utilizing cold water for dilution and limited mixing capabilities. use as inert ingredients in pesticide formulations under U.S.
Therefore, it is important for the adjuvant formulation EPA Regulations 40 CFR 180.910
to rapidly dissolve upon dilution in the spray tank. The and 40 CFR 180.920 (consult regulations for specific details).
dissolution rate of a nonionic surfactant adjuvant formulation
varies with surfactant composition. Figure 2. Giant foxtail control

TRT NO Treatment
Figure 1. Dissolution time 1 Control stable
2 Glyphosate stable
4000
3600 3600 3600 3 Glyphosate + 1% AMS
3500 4 Glyphosate + 1% AMS + 0.25% EH-9
5 Glyphosate + 1% AMS + 0.25% EH-14
3000
6 Glyphosate + 1% AMS + 0.25% EH-14/EH-40 blend
2500 7 Glyphosate + 1% AMS + 0.25% TAE 20
Seconds

2000

1500

1000

500
231 217
0 EH-9 EH-14 EH-14/40 TAE 20
EH-6 EH-6:C8-16 Nonyl Phenol C12-13 6.5 EO C12-15 9EO 1 2 3
4 5 6 7
APG 80:20 Ethoxylate (9EO) Primary Alcohol Primary Alcohol
Ethoxylate Ethoxylate Glyphosate = Glyphosate IPA at 0.20 lb a.e. / A, AMS = Ammonium sulfate, EH# = 2-Ethyl-hexyl alkoxylate
with # EO, TAE20 = Tallow amine ethoxylate 20 EO

Notice: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, the Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for the Customer’s use and for ensuring that the
Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other governmental enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this
document. No warranties are given; all implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are expressly excluded. This document is intended for global use.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2020 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved.
2000003884 Form No. 119-02383-01-0720 S2D
64
EO/PO copolymers
Unlock the power of your formulation
Polyalkaline glycols (PAGs) are a versatile family of organic polymers that can
Chemistry: be extensively explored in pesticide formulations. PAGs are a well-established
• Initiator/starter types: chemistry in other applications and can off er a variety of polymer architectures by
different functionalities exploring diff erent initiators and monomer types, orientation and ratio; generating
• Type of oxides: ethylene oxide molecules with a wide range of properties, including cloud point, water solubility,
(EO), propylene oxide (PO) and
butylene oxide (BO) wetting power, pour point and viscosity.
• Polyol structures: homo, hetero or
copolymer (block or random) The most common (and already widely used) PAG chemistry in pesticides is EO/PO
• Finishing techniques: from crude copolymers – polymers that can work as unique dispersant agents (bringing steric
to full stability), with distinct water solubility and low-foaming properties. These types
• Catalyst removal
• Flexible monomers ratio and
of molecules are mostly used in emulsifi able concentrate (EC) and suspension
molecular weight concentrate (SC) formulations, but are also suitable for capsule suspension (CS),
micro-emulsion (ME), emulsion: oil in water (EW) and suspo-emulsion (SE) formulas.
Production sites:
• Global
Figure 1: General PAG production reaction
Plant certification:
• cGMP (current good
manufacturing practices)
Compliance
• Kosher for Passover Ethylene Oxide (EO) Propylene Oxide (EO) Butylene Oxide (EO)
• Halal products
• NOTE: Not all plants have the
same certifi cate, please check Figure 2: Advantages of selected EO/PO copolymers from Dow
in your region with your local
Dow representative TERGITOL™ X EO/PO TERGITOL™ L and
Copolymer Surfactants DOWFAX™ EO/PO Copolymer
Packaging, presentation Butanol-initiated EO/PO Surfactants
and logistics: copolymers: Propylene glycol- (PG-) initiated
• Bulk (Iso-containers, full truck • Excellent dispersing agent EO/PO copolymers:
load [FTL]), intermediate bulk • Excellent steric stabilizer • Readily biodegradable
containers (IBCs) and drums • Water soluble • Nontoxic to aquatic
• Products can be shipped to • Distinct EO/PO ratio oganisms
• Excellent emulsifier • Distinct EO/PO ratio
all regions
- Aromatic solvents • Production flexibility
- Chlorinated solvents • Excellent foam control
65
 Figure 1: Typical TERGITOL™ and DOWFAX™ EO/PO copolymer applications

DOWFAX™ EO/
Applications TERGITOL™ EO/PO Copolymers
PO Copolymers
L-61 L-62 L-64 L-81 L-101 XD XH XJ P-104 P-105 100N50

Emulsion & dispersion

Emulsifier for aromatic &

chlorinated solvents

Steric & freeze/thaw stabilizer

Wetting agent

Foam control

Higher temperature (foam control)

Low temperature (foam control)

Chemical intermediates

Fermentation

Figure 2: EO/PO copolymers from Dow

DOWFAX™ EO/
Typical properties(1) TERGITOL™ EO/PO Copolymers
PO Copolymers
L-61 L-62 L-64 L-81 L-101 XD XH XJ P-104 P-105 100N50 100N50(2)
Cloud point(3) 24 32 62 20 18 74 95 49 — — — —
HLB (4)
3 7 15 2 1 — — — 13 13.8 13.8 —
Pour point (5)
-32 -2 7 -20 -24 34 40 27 32 45 45 -10
Viscosity at 38°C approx.
168 231 284 244 399 251(8) 319(8) 149(8) — — —
(100°F), cST 9(9)
Density at 25°C (77°F), approx. approx. approx. approx.
1.015 1.011 1.048 1.016 1.018 1.02 1.033 1.010
g/ml 1 1 1(9) 1(9)
Surface tension (6) 40 41 44 36 33 38 41 36 33 39 39 39
Foam Height (7) 0/0 45/30 48/18 Dispersible 30/25 60/25 80/40 53/13 96/71 99/84 — —
Draves 20 sec wetting
conc, wt% at 25°C 0.02 0.50 1.0 — 0.11 0.38 0.62 0.24 — — — —
(77°F)
Pale Pale
Clear Opaque Pale yellow White White White White White White Clear
Appearance yellow yellow
liquid liquid liquid solid solid solid solid solid solid liquid
liquid liquid
(1)
Typical values, not to be construed as specifications
(2)
18 wt% solution in water
(3)
Cloud point: °C, 1 wt% actives aqueous solution
(4)
Hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) range: <10 water-in-oil emulsifier, >10 oil-in-water
emulsifier, 10-15 good wetting, 12-15 detergents
(5)
Pour point: °C
(6)
Surface tension: dynes/cm at 1% actives, 25°C
(7)
Ross-Miles foam height: mm at 0.1 wt% actives, 25°C, initial/5 minute
(8)
Viscosity at 25°C (77°F), cps
(9)
Density at 20°C (68°F), g/ml

Notice: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, the Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for the Customer’s use and for ensuring that the
Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other governmental enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this
document. No warranties are given; all implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are expressly excluded. This document is intended for global use.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2020 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved.
2000003884 Form No. 119-02385-01-0720 S2D
66
POWERBLOX™ D-205 and D-305
Unlock the power of your formulation
• High charge density enables high grinding efficiency
POWERBLOX™ D series of polycarboxylate
• It can be applied to systems with different pH values
dispersants are designed for pesticide suspensions
and fertilizer formulations enabling an increased POWERBLOX™ D-205 disperses water-insoluble
storage stability and grinding efficiency. components (inorganic salts such as Calcium carbonate) with
the help of surfactants to create stable, evenly-dispersed
systems. These formulations can be mixed with water in
Advantages any proportion to achieve homogeneous dispersions. The
High molecular weight and specific steric effect enable the product is easy to use and has a broad development range.
following benefits: POWERBLOX™ D-205 has been effectively used in the
formulation of micronutrients for foliar applications.
• Powerful dispersing performance, especially in pesticide
formulations with high active ingredient concentration POWERBLOX™ D-305
• Formulation and particle size stability maintained upon • Comb-type polyacrylate dispersant: aids the dispersion
aging at different temperatures of active ingredients and the stability of the product
during storage
• Homogeneous dispersion upon dilution
• Low viscosity, easy to process and handle
• Facilitates the wetting of exposed mineral surfaces
Suitable applications
• Keep particles apart during grinding or mixing process to
reduce mineral to primary particle size POWERBLOX™ D-205 and D-305 Dispersants are suitable
for various pesticide formulations, including Water Dispersible
• Stabilizes the dispersion through repulsive forces
Granule (WDG), Wettable Powder (WP), Suspension Concentrate
(SC), Emulsion-in-Water (EW), and Microemulsion (ME).
POWERBLOX™ D-205
• Modified acrylate terpolymer with a unique molecular
Availability
structure: it can efficiently disperse a variety of pesticide POWERBLOX™ D-series polycarboxylate dispersants are
active ingredients as well as inorganic minerals and ensure available in Asia Pacific and Europe, Middle East, Africa and
stability of the product during storage India (EMEAI).

Physical properties*
Contact us:
POWERBLOX™ D-205 POWERBLOX™ D-305 North America: 800 447 4396
Latin America: + 55 11 5184 8722
Appearance Clear to slightly hazy solution Pale yellow to clear liquid Europe: + 800 3 694 6367
Pacific (ex. China): + 800 7776 7776
Total solids 43.5% 25% China: + 400 889 0789
For further consultation or inquiries,
Density 1.2 g/ml 1.1 g/ml please access www.dow.com/contact

pH @ 25℃ 2.5 (as is) 10.4 (as is)

*Typical values not to be construed as specifications

Product Stewardship
Dow has a fundamental concern for all who make, distribute, and use its products, and for the environment in which we live. This concern is the basis for our product stewardship philosophy by which
we assess the safety, health, and environmental information on our products and then take appropriate steps to protect employee and public health and our environment. The success of our product
stewardship program rests with each and every individual involved with Dow products - from the initial concept and research, to manufacture, use, sale, disposal, and recycle of each product.
Customer Notice
Dow strongly encourages its customers to review both their manufacturing processes and their applications of Dow products from the standpoint of human health and environmental quality to
ensure that Dow products are not used in ways for which they are not intended or tested. Dow personnel are available to answer your questions and to provide reasonable technical support. Dow
product literature, including safety data sheets, should be consulted prior to use of Dow products. Current safety data sheets are available from Dow.
NOTICE: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for Customer’s use and for ensuring that Customer’s
workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other government enactments. The product shown in this literature may not be available for sale and/or available
in all geographies where Dow is represented. The claims made may not have been approved for use in all countries. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document.
References to “Dow” or the “Company” mean the Dow legal entity selling the products to Customer unless otherwise expressly noted. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN; ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2020 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved. 67
2000003884 Form No. 119-02377-1020 S2D
 POWERBLOX™ EM-90 surfactant
Unlock the power of your formulation

Delivering powerful emulsification performance in pesticide suspensions, helping

formulators to achieve the desired rheology and stability in their most advanced products.

Introducing POWERBLOX™ EM-90

Surfactant Typical properties

POWERBLOX™ EM-90 Surfactant is a versatile emulsifier

system recommended for Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC), Active matter 75 wt%
Suspension Concentrate (SC) and Oil Dispersion (OD)
formulations to help formulators achieve the desired Appearance Clear yellow liquid
stability and viscosity with their most advanced products.
POWERBLOX™ EM-90 Surfactant is additionally an excellent
Water content Max 0.5 wt%
emulsifier for tank-mix adjuvants and helps reduce the
environmental impact of the end product, as it is an aromatic
solvent-free system. pH in water (10% sol.) 5-7

Contact your local Dow representative or visit

dowcropdefense.com to request a product sample. Surface tension 33 mN/m

Functions
Critical Micelle Concentration (CMC) 1109 ppm
• Oil/Water emulsifier
Typical properties, not to be construed as specifications.
• Oil Adjuvant emulsifier
• Dispersant

68
Guideline formulation for Guideline formulation for
emulsifiable concentrate emulsifiable concentrate

Product Function Weight % Product Function Weight %

Fenoxaprop-p-ethyl• Active 10 Tebuconazole• Active 26

POWERBLOX™ EM-90 POWERBLOX™ EM-90

Surfactant 10 Surfactant 20
Surfactant Surfactant

Aromatic 200* Solvent 80 Aromatic 200* Solvent 54

Guideline formulation for

suspension concentrate

Product Function Weight %

Azoxystrobin• Active 30

POWERBLOX™ EM-90
Surfactant 8
Surfactant

Propylene glycol Anti-freeze 4

Biocide* Biocide 0.2

XIAMETER™ AFE 1530

Defoamer 0.6
Antifoam Emulsion

Water Solvent 49.2

Xanthan* gum 2% Thickener 8

*Products not marketed by Dow

Contact us US
Toll Free 800 447 4396
989 832 1542
International
Latin America + 55 11 5184 8722
Europe / Middle East + 800 36 94 63 67
Asia / Pacific + 800 77 76 77 76
China + 400 889 0789

Image: gettyimages_130409782
Product Stewardship Dow has a fundamental concern for all who make, distribute, and use its products, and for the environment in which we live. This concern is the basis for our product
stewardship philosophy by which we assess the safety, health, and environmental information on our products and then take appropriate steps to protect employee and public health and our
environment. The success of our product stewardship program rests with each and every individual involved with Dow products - from the initial concept and research, to manufacture, use,
sale, disposal, and recycle
of each product.
Customer Notice Dow strongly encourages its customers to review both their manufacturing processes and their applications of Dow products from the standpoint of human health and
environmental quality to ensure that Dow products are not used in ways for which they are not intended or tested. Dow personnel are available to answer your questions and to provide
reasonable technical support. Dow product literature, including safety data sheets, should be consulted prior to use of Dow products. Current safety data sheets are available from Dow.
NOTICE No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for Customer’s use and for ensuring that Customer’s
workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other government enactments. The product shown in this literature may not be available for sale and/or available
in all geographies where Dow is represented. The claims made may not have been approved for use in all countries. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document.
References to “Dow” or the “Company” mean the Dow legal entity selling the products to Customer unless otherwise expressly noted. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN; ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
®™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow.
2000003884 Form No. 119-02522-1020 S2D
69
 POWERBLOX™ RF-65 rainfastness sticker adjuvant
Unlock the power of your formulation
Advantages:
POWERBLOX™ RF-65 Rainfastness sticker adjuvant is
a designed co-polymer sticker that improves pesticide
• Specially designed • Improve the coverage
co-polymer of pesticides in contact efficiency by forming a film to keep active ingredients in
• EPA registered with the plant surface contact with the plant surface, resisting wash-off from rainfall
• No phytotoxicity* and reduces evaporation
evaporation, increasing coverage to enhance drug efficacy.
• Universal performance • Excellent drug efficacy
for various formulations enhancement Suitable for use in waterborne formulations as in-can additive
*Note: on the basis of lab testing on peperomia obtusifolia
and in tank-mix.

Products overview*
Chemicals Concentration Regulation
Solid content 50.0 wt%
• Listed in EPA under 40 CFR 180.920
Water 50.0 wt%
Physicochemical property Typical value Recommendation dosage
Appearance White milky emulsion
• In can: 4-8 wt% in water-based formulation
pH value 8.0
• Tank-mix: 0.1 wt% dilution of the final water volume in the spray tank
Viscosity (R.T.) 650 cp
*The physical property data listed are considered to be typical properties, not specifications.

Application
Table 1. Rainfastness performance in SC formulations*
Adjuvant Mancozeb (Retention/%) Pyraclostrobin (Retention/%) Difenoconazole (Retention/%)
No sticker adjuvant 8 67 87
POWERBLOX™ RF-65 46 84 97
*Note: simulated rainfall or irrigation 1 hour after treatment, 100 mm/h for 30 min

Plant height average inhibition ratio Stem diameter average inhibition Sample with herbicide Sample with herbicide
CK
without adjuvant with adjuvant
33.0%
10.6%
No rain

3.7% 11.4%

POWERBLOX™ POWERBLOX™
Control Control
RF-65 RF-65

13.1% 21.0%
Heavy rain

5.0% 18.6%

POWERBLOX™ POWERBLOX™
Control Control
RF-65 RF-65 Weed effect after 15 days

Crop: corn Temperature: room temperature POWERBLOX™ RF-65 dosage: as tank- Crop: Eleusine indica Temperature: 31°C POWERBLOX™ RF-65 dosage: as tank-mix
mix adjuvant with 0.1 wt% in dilution Drying time: 30 min Dilution times: 2000 X adjuvant 0.1 wt% in dilution Drying time: 30 min Dilution times: 800 X
Rainfall: Heavy rain model by rain-fall simulator Rainfall: 7.5L for each zone (21 m2)

Figure 1. Rainfastness sticker adjuvant improves the efficacy of growth Figure 2. Rainfastness sticker adjuvant improves the efficacy of glufosinate 200
inhibitor (chlormequat chloride) AS formulation in corn bio-assay test g/L SL weed control in field test

For further consultation or inquiries, please access dow.com/contact.

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NOTICE: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for Customer’s use and for ensuring that Customer’s
workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other government enactments. The product shown in this literature may not be available for sale and/or available
in all geographies where Dow is represented. The claims made may not have been approved for use in all countries. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document.
References to “Dow” or the “Company” mean the Dow legal entity selling the products to Customer unless otherwise expressly noted. NO WARRANTIES ARE GIVEN; ALL IMPLIED
WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2020 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved.
2000003884 Form No. 119-02544-01-1020 S2D
70
POWERBLOX™ RF-212 rainfastness
adjuvant for biopesticides
Increased demand for organic
food, awareness of environmental
challenges and use of integrated pest
management systems (IPM) have
led to a rising interest and need
for biopesticides.
Typically, biopesticides have limited
residual activity on plants due to
sensitivity of the active ingredient
(A.I) to environmental conditions,
such as rain and sunlight. For
instance, Cry Protein retention for a
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) formulation
is 0% after 5 minute exposure to
simulated rain with a flow rate of 6L
of water/hour.

POWERBLOX™ RF-212 is a low foam, liquid adjuvant that Enhanced rainfastness of Bacillus Thuringiensis (Bt)
offers exceptional rainfastness to your biopesticide.
Protein retention is significantly higher when compared to
This innovative rainfastness adjuvant enhances the coverage multiple commercial benchmark adjuvants for both liquid
and attachment of A.I on the leaf surface, making it less and dry flowable Bt formulations. Specifically, a dry flowable
susceptible to removal by rain. It can be used as an In-Can or Bt formulation and a liquid Bt formulation containing
Tank-Mix adjuvant. Additionally, it can be added to liquid Bt POWERBLOX™ RF-212 offered respectively 40% and 80%
formulations that are further spray-dried to produce wettable protein retention after exposure to simulated rain for up to 2h.
powder formulations. POWERBLOX™ RF-212 has inert While 0% protein retention was obtained with the control Bt
clearance 40 CFR 180.910 (pre-and post-harvest). formulation, as shown in figure 1 and 2.
Physical properties* In addition, a liquid Bt formulation containing POWERBLOX™
RF-212 delivered 61% protein retention after exposure to
Acrylic copolymer content 35%
simulated rain, even after spray-drying and re-dispersion
Solvent 60/40 water/propylene glycol
in water. While 0% protein retention was obtained with
Light yellow/clear to slightly the control spray-dried Bt formulation, as shown in Figure
Color
hazy liquid
3. Spray-drying yield can increase 3.3x when using
Viscocity 2,000-12,000 mPa.s POWERBLOX™ RF-212.
Density (g/mL) 1.0810
pH 9.3-9.8
*Typical values not to be construed as specifications
71
 Proven, enhanced protein retention
Dry flowable Bt formulation
50

40
% protein retention

30

20

10

0
5 10 30 120
Spray time (min)

Control Commercial benchmark 1

POWERBLOX™ RF-212 Commercial benchmark 2
Commercial benchmark 3

Figure 1. Percentage of protein retention after exposure to simulated

rain for dry flowable Bt formulation containing POWERBLOX™
RF-212, 7.0 wt%. 6L/h simulated rain flow rate, two replicates for
each treatment.

Liquid Bt formulation Spray-dried Bt formulation

100 70

60
80
% protein retention

% protein retention

50
60 40

40 30

20
20
10
0 0
5 10 30 120
Spray-dried control Liq. Bt spray-dried with
Spray time (min) POWERBLOX™ RF-212
Control Commercial benchmark 1
POWERBLOX™ RF-212 Commercial benchmark 2 Figure 3. Percentage of protein retention after exposure to simulated
Commercial benchmark 3 rain for a wettable powder Bt formulation. POWERBLOX™ RF-212
was included in the liquid Bt formulation before the spray-drying
process. 6L/h simulated rain flow rate, two replicates for each
Figure 2. Percentage of protein retention after exposure to simulated treatment. Under Dow experimental spray-drying conditions.
rain for liquid Bt formulation containing POWERBLOX™ RF-212, 7.0
wt%. 6L/h simulated rain flow rate, two replicates for each treatment.

The graphic representations are presented here for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as product specifications.

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Notice: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, the Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for the Customer’s use and for ensuring that the
Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other governmental enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this
document. No warranties are given; all implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are expressly excluded. This document is intended for global use.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2020 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved.
2000003884 Form No. 119-02632-01-1020 S2D
72
 Silicone products used in
agrochemicals
Wetting agents and antifoams
Adjuvants used for performance enhancing
Spreading and wetting Rainfastness and uptake

Non-ionic Crop oil SYLGARD™

surfactant concentrate OFX-0309 Fluid*

*Silicone superwetters have surface tension as low as 21 dynes/cm at 0.1% in water

Wetting agents Crop oil SYLGARD™

concentrate OFX-0309 Fluid*
SYLGARD™ OFX-0309 Fluid and XIAMETER™ OFX-5211 Control
Fluid are silicone polyethers developed to improve the wetting, No rain Rain No rain Rain
spreading and penetration of agricultural chemicals. They present
a very low surface tension, a rapid spreading and wetting,
and rainfastness. They increase insecticide and fungicide
effectiveness, have a negligible crop phytotoxicity, are cost
effective and are ideal for aerial applications or upcoming rain.

Herbicides activity enhancement

Herbicide A – Velvetleaf Herbicide B – Giant foxtail
100 100
90 90
Visual velvetleaf injury (%)

Visual foxtail injury (%)

80 80 No rain Rain
No rain Rain
70 70
60 60
50 50
40 40
30 30
20 20
10 10
0 0
Control Herbicide A Non-ionic XIAMETER™ Control Herbicide B Non-ionic XIAMETER™
OFX-5211 OFX-5211
Fluid Fluid
Treatment, herbicide A: 0.05 lb/acre Treatment, herbicide B: 0.20 lb/acre
73
 Antifoams
Silicone antifoams are effective at low dosage, persistent and tend to be non-reactive in the foaming system, leading to
few compatibility issues.

Antifoam properties:
AIR Protrusion at the interface • Insoluble in the foaming media
• Well dispersed in the foam media:
WATER • Aqueous foaming systems
– O/W antifoam emulsions
Hydrophobized
– Water dispersible granulated antifoams
silica
Silicone oil • Non-aqueous foaming systems
– Compound antifoams

EPA regulations Compliant products

DOWSIL™ AFE-3101 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™ AFE-0100 Antifoam Emulsion Food Grade,
XIAMETER™ ACP-1400 Antifoam Compound, XIAMETER™ AFE-1510 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAM-
40 CFR 180.910 (180.1001c) ETER™ AFE-1520 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™ AFE-1530 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™
AFE-0300 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™ AFE-1010 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™ AFE-0010
Antifoam Emulsion Food Grade
XIAMETER™ AFE-1410 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™ AFE-2210 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAM-
40 CFR 180.920 (180.1001d)
ETER™ AFE-0200 Antifoam Emulsion, XIAMETER™ AFE-0700 Antifoam Emulsion
40 CFR 180.940 (b) and (c) XIAMETER™ AFE-1530 Antifoam Emulsion
40 CFR 180.960 XIAMETER™ ACP-0001 Antifoam Compound Food Grade

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Notice: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and
may change with time, the Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for the Customer’s use and for ensuring that the
Customer’s workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other governmental enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this
document. No warranties are given; all implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are expressly excluded. This document is intended for global use.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2020 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved.
2000003884 Form No. 26-2353-01-1020 S2D
74
About Dow
Dow (NYSE: DOW) combines global breadth, asset integration and scale, focused innovation and leading business positions to achieve profitable growth.
The Company’s ambition is to become the most innovative, customer centric, inclusive and sustainable materials science company. Dow’s portfolio of
plastics, industrial intermediates, coatings and silicones businesses delivers a broad range of differentiated science-based products and solutions for its
customers in high-growth market segments, such as packaging, infrastructure and consumer care. Dow operates 109 manufacturing sites in 31 countries
and employs approximately 36,500 people. Dow delivered sales of approximately $43 billion in 2019. References to Dow or the Company mean Dow Inc.
and its subsidiaries. For more information, please visit www.dow.com or follow @DowNewsroom on Twitter.

US dow.com
Toll Free 800 441 4DOW
989 832 1542
International
Europe / Middle East + 800 36 94 63 67
Italy + 800 783 825
Asia / Pacific + 800 77 76 77 76
+ 60 37 958 3392
South Africa + 800 99 5078

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Notice: No freedom from infringement of any patent owned by Dow or others is to be inferred. Because use conditions and applicable laws may differ from one location to another and may
change with time, the Customer is responsible for determining whether products and the information in this document are appropriate for the Customer’s use and for ensuring that the Customer’s
workplace and disposal practices are in compliance with applicable laws and other governmental enactments. Dow assumes no obligation or liability for the information in this document. No
warranties are given; all implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose are expressly excluded. This document is intended for global use.
®
™ Trademark of The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) or an affiliated company of Dow
© 2022 The Dow Chemical Company. All rights reserved.
2000019228 Form No. 119-02373-01-0722 S2D