Improvement in Rheological, Safe Handling and Formulation Characteristics of Viscous Cypermethrin Through Co-inclusion in Urea

Abstract

A steep improvement in rheological, safe handling and formulation characteristics of cypermethrin has been undertaken through co-inclusion in urea. The current investigation describes conversion of viscous cypermethrin into a three-component powder form that is easier to use and safer to handle. The bioactive compound is converted into urea co-inclusion complex in the presence of oleic acid. Insects will be exposed to insecticide only after co-inclusion complex of cypermethrin comes in contact with water in soil/crops following switching on of water sprinkling system in fields. This prevents direct ingestion, inhalation or dermal exposure of insecticides. Therefore, human beings dealing with toxic insecticide will not be exposed after its entrapment in urea hexagonal lattice. Cypermethrin is formulated into human guarded free flowing solids to facilitate ease in packaging/transportation/use. Cypermethrin urea co-inclusion complex (CYUCIC) formation was evidenced by XRD, DSC, FTIR and 1H-NMR techniques. Regression analysis on thermal data depicted gradual rise in heat of decomposition and better physical stability in CYUCICs with increase in relative fraction of RCG. CYUCIC complex revealed improved dissolution rate and uniform composition. Studies indicate insecticide–fertilizer amalgamation to be a fruitful approach for conversion of hazardous insecticide into human guarded formulation with improved dissolution profile, uniform composition and better flow properties.