
Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate foliar insecticide that has played a critical role in modern agricultural pest management. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Acephate's chemical properties, technical specifications, applications, safety information, and the company background of its manufacturer, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. Additionally, we incorporate authoritative references from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to ensure the information aligns with scientific and industry standards.
Acephate is a systemic and contact insecticide that targets a broad spectrum of pests, including leaf miners, caterpillars, sawflies, thrips, aphids, and other sucking and chewing insects. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme critical for nerve signal transmission in insects. After metabolic conversion to methamidophos, Acephate disrupts the nervous system of pests, leading to their incapacitation and eventual death. Notably, Acephate is considered relatively safe for mammals due to its limited conversion to methamidophos in animal systems, making it a preferred choice for agricultural applications.

Acephate's chemical and physical properties are essential for understanding its storage, handling, and application. Below is a detailed product specification table:
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | 93°C |
| Density | 1.35 g/cm³ |
| 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 a versatile insecticide with wide-ranging applications across agriculture, horticulture, and forestry. It is particularly effective against sucking insects (e.g., aphids, whiteflies) and chewing pests (e.g., caterpillars, armyworms). Key applications include:

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. offers a variety of Acephate formulations to suit different agricultural needs. These include:
Acephate is classified under the GHS (Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals) with the following risk statements:

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of agrochemicals and chemical intermediates. With a focus on quality, safety, and innovation, the company has established itself as a trusted partner in the global agricultural industry. Their product portfolio includes a wide range of insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides, with Acephate being one of their flagship products. For more information about their offerings, visit their product page.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plays a pivotal role in establishing scientific standards for chemical safety and measurement. While NIST does not directly regulate insecticides, its research on chemical properties, solubility, and environmental impact provides critical benchmarks for industries like agriculture. For instance, NIST's work on analytical chemistry ensures that pesticides like Acephate are tested for accuracy, consistency, and safety (NIST, 2025). This alignment with NIST standards underscores the importance of rigorous testing and transparency in agrochemical development.
Acephate remains a cornerstone of modern pest management due to its efficacy, broad-spectrum activity, and relatively low mammalian toxicity. Its chemical properties, such as high water solubility and systemic action, make it a versatile tool for farmers and agronomists. Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. continues to support global agriculture by offering diverse formulations of Acephate, ensuring accessibility and adaptability to varying crop needs. As the industry evolves, adherence to scientific standards and regulatory compliance remains paramount, a principle echoed by organizations like the NIST.
NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). (2025). https://www.nist.gov/
Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. (2025). Acephate Product Page.