
Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate foliar insecticide that has been a cornerstone in pest management since the 1990s. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Acephate's properties, applications, and the company behind its production, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.. Whether you're a farmer, horticulturist, or pest control professional, this guide will help you understand how Acephate works and why it remains a trusted solution for crop protection.
Acephate is classified as a systemic insecticide, meaning it is absorbed by plants and distributed throughout their tissues. This unique property allows it to target both contact and systemic pests, making it highly effective against a wide range of insect species. Its mechanism of action involves the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (Ache), an enzyme critical for nerve signal transmission in insects. By disrupting this process, Acephate causes paralysis and eventual death in pests.
One of the key advantages of Acephate is its moderate persistence, ensuring that it remains active for a sufficient duration to control infestations without excessive environmental impact. Additionally, its solubility in water, chloroform, and DMSO allows for flexible formulation options, including emulsifiable concentrates (EC), soluble powders (SP), and water-dispersible granules (WDG).
| 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 | Water, chloroform, DMSO (soluble) |
| pKa | 11.00 ± 0.46 (predicted) |
| Form | White to yellow solid |
| Water Solubility | Readily soluble |
Acephate is a versatile insecticide used across various agricultural and horticultural sectors. Its systemic activity makes it ideal for controlling pests in crops such as cotton, fruits, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Below are some of the key application scenarios:
Acephate is widely used to combat pests in cotton, tobacco, and fruit crops. It effectively targets aphids, leaf miners, and caterpillars, which can cause significant damage to yields. Its contact and systemic properties ensure that pests are eliminated both on the surface and within the plant.
For ornamental plants, flowers, and greenhouse crops, Acephate provides reliable control of sucking insects like thrips and aphids. Its solubility in water allows for easy application through foliar sprays, ensuring even coverage and quick absorption.
Acephate is also used in forestry to manage pests such as bagworms and sawflies. Its moderate persistence makes it suitable for long-term protection of trees and shrubs.
While Acephate is an effective insecticide, its use requires careful handling to ensure human and environmental safety. The Global Harmonized System (GHS) classification for Acephate includes the symbol GHS07 and a Warning signal word, indicating potential hazards. Key risk statements include:
To mitigate risks, users should follow label instructions and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves, goggles, and respirators. Proper storage at 4°C is essential to maintain its chemical stability.
For detailed safety information, refer to the Acephate Safety Data Sheet provided by Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.
Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of agrochemicals and chemical intermediates, dedicated to providing innovative solutions for global agriculture. With years of experience in the industry, the company has established itself as a trusted supplier of high-quality insecticides like Acephate.
Hebei Dongfeng's product range includes 97% TC, 75% SP, 40% EC, and 97% WDG formulations, catering to diverse agricultural needs. Their commitment to research and development ensures that their products meet international standards for efficacy and safety.
For more information about Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., visit their official website.
Acephate remains a vital tool in modern pest management due to its efficacy, versatility, and environmental compatibility. Its ability to target a wide range of pests, combined with its systemic and contact activity, makes it a preferred choice for farmers and horticulturists worldwide.
When using Acephate, always prioritize safety and compliance with local regulations. For the latest updates on pest control technologies and agricultural innovations, consult authoritative sources like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), which provides critical guidelines for chemical safety and measurement standards.
1. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – For guidelines on chemical safety and measurement standards.
2. Acephate Safety Data Sheet – Provided by Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.