Renewable surfactants in spray adjuvants

Abstract

AbstractAdjuvants are chemically and biologically active components that improve herbicide performance. Certain herbicides require the addition of an adjuvant to be effective. Adjuvants sometimes enhance the penetration of herbicide into plants by ensuring adequate spray coverage and maintaining the herbicide contact with plant tissues, or by increasing the rate of foliar and/or stomatal penetration. Although adjuvants are typically categorized as “inert” or “essentially non‐phytotoxic” (i. e. not toxic to plants) compounds, many can produce wide ranging effects on physiological and metabolic processes within plants, animals, and/or microorganisms. Surfactants affect the environment not only in their use and disposal, but also in their production and delivery. Agrochemical formulations and delivery systems that consist of surfactants are evolving to meet new standards including increased safety, convenience, and efficiency of application, as well as lower production costs. Regulatory bodies across the globe are insisting on the requirement of extensive testing to meet stringent safety criteria. Here we discuss the changing trend of renewable chemicals in the crop protection adjuvant.