Acephate - Hebei Dongfeng: Organophosphate Insecticide for Pest Control

Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate foliar insecticide that has been a cornerstone in pest management since the 1990s. Developed to combat a broad spectrum of insect pests, Acephate remains a critical tool for farmers and agricultural professionals. This article provides a detailed exploration of its chemical properties, technical specifications, applications, safety profile, and the company behind its production, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.

Chemical Properties and Technical Specifications

Acephate is a white to yellow solid 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 highlights its flammability risk, necessitating careful handling. For storage, Acephate should be kept at approximately 4°C to maintain its efficacy.

One of Acephate’s key attributes is its solubility in various solvents, including chloroform, DMSO, and water. This property allows for flexible formulation options, making it suitable for different application methods. Its pKa of 11.00 ± 0.46 (predicted) suggests it is a weak base, which influences its behavior in aqueous environments.

Product Specifications Table

Safety and Risk Assessment

Acephate is classified under the GHS07 symbol, indicating hazardous to the environment and toxic if inhaled or ingested. The signal word "Warning" underscores its potential risks. Hazard statements include H302+H312, which denote harmful if swallowed and harmful if in contact with skin. The hazard codes Xn (toxic) and F (flammable) further emphasize its safety profile.

The UN number 1648 and HS Code 29299040 are critical for its transportation and regulatory compliance. These codes ensure that Acephate is handled according to international standards, minimizing environmental and health risks during distribution.

Applications and Effectiveness

Acephate is a contact and systemic insecticide effective against sucking and chewing insects in a wide range of crops, including cotton, ornamentals, forestry, tobacco, fruits, vegetables, and horticultural plants. It targets pests such as alfalfa loopers, aphids, armyworms, bagworms, bean leafbeetles, and thrips, making it a versatile solution for agricultural challenges.

The insecticide works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (Ache) activity after metabolic conversion to methamidophos. This mechanism disrupts the nervous system of pests, leading to their incapacitation and eventual death. Notably, Acephate is not converted to methamidophos in mammals, reducing its toxicity to humans and animals, a critical advantage over other organophosphates.

Product Variants and Formulations

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. offers Acephate in multiple formulations to suit 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 cater to different application methods, from foliar sprays to soil treatments, ensuring flexibility for farmers and agronomists.

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

As a leading manufacturer of agricultural chemicals, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is committed to developing safe, effective, and sustainable pest control solutions. The company’s expertise in chemical formulation and quality assurance ensures that Acephate meets stringent industry standards.

For more information about Acephate and its formulations, visit the official product page or explore the company website.

Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Considerations

Acephate’s use is governed by international and national regulations to ensure environmental and human safety. The United States National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) plays a pivotal role in establishing measurement standards and safety protocols for chemical substances. According to NIST, "accurate measurement and standardized testing are critical for assessing the safety and efficacy of agricultural chemicals" (NIST, 2023). This underscores the importance of adhering to guidelines when handling Acephate.

Conclusion

Acephate remains a vital tool in modern agriculture, offering a balance of efficacy, versatility, and safety. Its chemical properties, combined with the company’s commitment to quality, make it a reliable choice for pest management. As agricultural practices evolve, Acephate continues to adapt, ensuring its relevance in sustainable farming solutions.

References

NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). (2023). https://www.nist.gov

Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.. (n.d.). https://www.dfchempest.com