Controlled release of agrochemical molecules chemically bound to polymers

Abstract

The widescale use of bioactive agents has brought many advantages, particularly to the agricultural industry. However, there are increasing worries about further escalation of the use of bioactive species, in view of the associated problems, e.g. environmental pollution, accompanying their use. The development and application of controlled release technology has held out the promise of solving many of these problems; this review surveys the current situation regarding those technologies which involve delivery systems in which the agrochemical is chemically bound to a polymer. Since the strategy and chemistry involved in polymeric anti-fouling paints and in polymeric wood preservatives are very similar to those adopted with agrochemicals, short sections on these topics are also included.