Acephate-Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.|Pest Control&Formulations

Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate foliar insecticide that has been a cornerstone in pest management for decades. This article provides an in-depth analysis of its chemical properties, applications, formulations, and the company behind its production, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.

Chemical Properties and Technical Specifications

Acephate is a solid compound with a melting point of 93°C and a density of 1.35 g/cm³. Its vapor pressure at 24°C is 2.26 × 10⁻⁴ Pa, indicating low volatility, which contributes to its stability during storage and application. The flash point of 2°C suggests it is flammable under certain conditions, necessitating careful handling. For storage, it should be kept at approximately 4°C to maintain its efficacy.

The compound exhibits high solubility in water, chloroform, and DMSO, making it compatible with various agricultural formulations. Its pKa is approximately 11.00, indicating it is a weak base. The solubility in water is described as "readily soluble," which enhances its effectiveness as a foliar spray. Acephate typically appears as a white to yellow solid, and its physical form allows for easy integration into different product types.

Product Specifications Table

Safety and Risk Information

Acephate is classified under the GHS07 hazard symbol, indicating it is harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. The signal word "Warning" underscores the need for caution during handling. The hazard statements H302 (Harmful if swallowed) and H312 (Harmful if in contact with skin) highlight its potential risks. The hazard codes Xn (Xn: Harmful) and F (Flammable) further emphasize its classification as a hazardous substance.

The UN number 1648 and HS code 29299040 are used for its transport and customs classification, ensuring compliance with international regulations. Proper storage and disposal are critical to mitigate environmental and health risks. Always refer to the product safety data sheet for detailed guidelines.

Applications and Effectiveness

Acephate is a contact and systemic insecticide with moderate persistence, making it effective against a broad spectrum of pests. It is particularly useful for controlling sucking and chewing insects in crops such as cotton, ornamentals, forestry, tobacco, fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products. Its systemic activity allows it to be absorbed by plants, providing protection against pests that feed on leaves, stems, and fruits.

Key pests targeted by Acephate include alfalfa loopers, aphids, armyworms, bagworms, bean leaf beetles, blackgrass bugs, bollworms, budworms, and cabbage loopers. Its mechanism of action involves inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme critical for nerve signal transmission in insects. This leads to overstimulation of the nervous system, resulting in paralysis and death. Notably, Acephate is metabolized into methamidophos, a more active compound, but it is considered less toxic to mammals due to its limited conversion in animal systems.

Product Formulations

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. offers Acephate in multiple formulations to cater to diverse agricultural needs:

• Acephate 97% TC Technical Concentrate
• Acephate 75% SP Soluble Powder
• Acephate 40% EC Emulsifiable Concentrate
• Acephate 98% TC Technical Concentrate
• Acephate 97% SG Soluble Granules
• Acephate 30% EC Emulsifiable Concentrate
• Acephate 97% WDG Water Dispersible Granule

These formulations ensure flexibility in application methods, whether through foliar sprays, soil drenches, or seed treatments. The emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and soluble powder (SP) are ideal for large-scale agricultural operations, while water dispersible granules (WDG) offer convenient handling and reduced environmental impact.

Company Background: Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of agricultural chemicals, specializing in the production of high-quality insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, the company has established itself as a reliable supplier in the global agrochemical market. Their expertise in formulating organophosphate insecticides like Acephate ensures effective pest control while adhering to strict safety and environmental standards.

The company's product portfolio includes a wide range of formulations tailored to the needs of farmers and agricultural professionals. Their website provides detailed information on product specifications, application guidelines, and technical support. Hebei Dongfeng's dedication to research and development has enabled the creation of solutions that balance efficacy with environmental responsibility.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

While Acephate is effective against pests, its use requires careful management to minimize environmental impact. The compound can persist in soil and water, necessitating adherence to recommended application rates and intervals. Farmers are advised to follow Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices to reduce reliance on chemical insecticides and protect non-target organisms, such as pollinators.

For detailed safety protocols, refer to the product safety data sheet. Additionally, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides resources on chemical safety and regulatory compliance. While the search for specific NIST data on Acephate was unsuccessful, the agency's guidelines on chemical handling and storage remain a valuable reference for agricultural professionals.

Conclusion

Acephate remains a critical tool in modern agriculture, offering broad-spectrum pest control with a proven track record of effectiveness. Its versatility in formulations, combined with the expertise of manufacturers like Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., ensures that farmers can address pest challenges efficiently. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, the balance between pest control and environmental stewardship will remain a priority, with products like Acephate playing a vital role in sustainable farming practices.

References

1. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – For general guidelines on chemical safety and regulatory compliance.

2. Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. Product Page – For detailed specifications and application guidelines.