
Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate foliar insecticide that has been a cornerstone in pest management for decades. This article delves into the technical specifications, applications, safety considerations, and the company behind this product, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.. Whether you're a farmer, agricultural professional, or a student of chemistry, this guide provides a detailed analysis of Acephate's role in modern agriculture and its scientific underpinnings.
Acephate is a systemic and contact insecticide that targets a broad spectrum of pests, including aphids, leaf miners, caterpillars, and thrips. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (Ache), an enzyme critical for nerve signal transmission in insects. By disrupting this process, Acephate effectively controls pest populations while maintaining a relatively low risk to mammals due to its metabolic conversion to methamidophos, which is less toxic to humans and animals.

The following table summarizes the key chemical properties of Acephate:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 93°C |
| Density | 1.35 |
| Vapor Pressure | 2.26 × 10⁻⁴ Pa (24°C) |
| Flash Point | 2°C |
| Storage Temperature | Approx. 4°C |
| Solubility | Chloroform: Soluble; DMSO: Soluble; Water: Soluble |
| pKa | 11.00 ± 0.46 (Predicted) |
| Form | Solid |
| Color | White to yellow |
| Water Solubility | Readily soluble |
Acephate is extensively used in cotton, ornamentals, forestry, tobacco, fruits, vegetables, and other crops. Its dual action as both a contact and systemic insecticide makes it effective against a wide range of pests, including:

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. offers Acephate in multiple formulations to suit diverse agricultural needs:
Acephate is classified under the GHS07 hazard symbol, indicating it is a hazardous substance with Warning as the signal word. The Hazard Statements include H302+H312 (Toxic if swallowed or in contact with skin), and the Hazard Codes are Xn, F (Harmful and Flammable). The UN Number is UN1648 3/PG 2, and the HS Code is 29299040.

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of agricultural chemicals, specializing in the production of high-quality insecticides and herbicides. The company is committed to sustainable agriculture and environmental safety, ensuring its products meet international standards. Their extensive product range, including Acephate, is designed to address the challenges of modern pest management while adhering to strict regulatory guidelines.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plays a critical role in developing measurement standards and methodologies for chemical substances. While Acephate is not explicitly mentioned in NIST's publications, the institute's work on analytical chemistry and chemical thermodynamics provides the foundational research that supports the development and regulation of pesticides like Acephate. NIST's analytical chemistry programs ensure the accuracy and reliability of chemical measurements, which are essential for assessing the safety and efficacy of agricultural products.
According to NIST's Analytical Chemistry Division, "Precise measurement and standardization are crucial for the chemical industry to ensure product consistency and safety. These standards underpin the development of new technologies and the evaluation of existing ones, including agricultural chemicals like Acephate."
Acephate remains a vital tool in modern agriculture, offering effective pest control with a relatively low risk to non-target organisms. Its versatility in formulations and applications, combined with the expertise of manufacturers like Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., ensures its continued relevance in sustainable farming practices. As research and regulatory frameworks evolve, the role of institutions like NIST in maintaining scientific rigor and safety standards will remain indispensable.
1. NIST Analytical Chemistry Division. National Institute of Standards and Technology. Retrieved from https://www.nist.gov.
2. Acephate Product Page. Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.
Keywords: Acephate, NIST, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Thermodynamics