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ADJUVANT QUALITY KEY TO
SUCCESS
Rural Business — April 2009
The use of adjuvants when applying crop protection chemicals can enhance the effectiveness of the application and improve the efficacy of the chemical in question. However, not all adjuvants are the same and ensuring you use a quality formulation is critical.
Jorg Kitt is Nufarm’s national business manager responsible for the company’s adjuvant range and application technology. He can’t stress enough the importance of rigorous research and proven quality.
“Adjuvants are designed to enhance the performance of pesticide application through prevention of chemical degradation, increased coverage and droplet deposition, improved plant penetration and uptake of the treatment chemical, reduction of spray drift minimizing antagonism and improving water quality”, Dr Kitt explained.
However, the quality of your adjuvant is crucial. Not just because the additive may not achieve what you intend, but it can actually cause problems that could harm your crop or decrease efficacy.”
Nufarm’s thorough testing of adjuvants via extensive research and development, as well as strict registration requirements are key components of knowing that what is promised by an adjuvant is actually delivered.
“Trusting your adjuvant is important, but unfortunately this is not always possible with some of the generic products we see here,” Dr Kitt said.
“We test our range thoroughly for Australian conditions in a wide variety of application scenarios prior to it being available for use by applicators.”
“For example, research investment on LI700 and Du-Wett exceeds $5 million, making these two of the most researched adjuvants in the world. By our doing this the user can be assured that they will be getting a formulation that is proven to work.”
“Our investment in research and development also allows us to develop new products and application options. The work done with Du-Wett broke new ground and revolutionized the application process in the horticultural sector.”
As part of viewing crop protection as an integrated process, Nufarm has developed the Spraywise initiative. It encapsulates the various components that ought to be considered for spray application in one program—and adjuvants play an important part.
“The Spraywise program aims to deliver best practice spraying and drift management techniques,” Dr Kitt said. “Through this we want to raise awareness within the farming community about the importance of correct chemical application and all the considerations that this involves. It includes reference charts, technical manuals, research trials, technical development and training which are then made available to the Australian market. We see it as an important part of ensuring that our products are used effectively and safely, and that they do what they promise to do.”
Nufarm’s adjuvants include Activator, Bond, Bonza, Du-Wett, Chemwet, LI700, Liaise and Pulse.
Further information can be found at www.nufarm.com.au
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