Sep . 22, 2025 09:45 Back to list

Acephate: Organophosphate Insecticide for Agricultural Pest Management | Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.

Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate foliar insecticide that has remained a critical tool in pest management since its development. This article provides an in-depth analysis of its chemical properties, applications, technical specifications, and the company behind its production. As a product of Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., Acephate exemplifies the intersection of agricultural innovation and chemical engineering. For more information, visit the Acephate product page and Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. website.

Figure 1: Acephate product in its technical concentrate form.

Chemical Properties and Technical Specifications

Acephate is a solid compound with distinct physical and chemical characteristics that make it suitable for agricultural applications. Its properties include:

Property	Details
Melting Point	93°C
Density	1.35 g/cm³
Vapor Pressure	2.26 × 10⁻⁴ Pa at 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

Figure 2: Acephate’s solubility in various solvents.

Key Functional Characteristics

Acephate functions as a contact and systemic insecticide, targeting both sucking and chewing pests. Its mechanism involves the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) after metabolic conversion to methamidophos. This action disrupts nerve signal transmission in pests, leading to their incapacitation and eventual death. Notably, Acephate is considered less toxic to mammals and humans compared to other organophosphates, as it does not metabolize into methamidophos in these organisms.

Figure 3: Acephate’s chemical structure and solubility profile.

Applications in Agriculture and Pest Control

Acephate is widely used in agricultural pest management across a diverse range of crops. Its applications include:

Cotton: Control of aphids, leaf miners, and caterpillars.
Vegetables and Horticulture: Targeting aphids and thrips.
Ornamentals and Forestry: Managing sawflies and bagworms.
Fruits and Tobacco: Elimination of armyworms and budworms.

Its systemic activity allows it to be absorbed by plants, providing protection against pests that feed on leaves, stems, and fruits. This makes Acephate particularly effective for crops like alfalfa, beans, and cabbage, where pests such as the alfalfa looper and bean leafbeetle are prevalent.

Product Variants and Formulations

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

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

These formulations cater to varying application methods, including foliar sprays, soil treatments, and seed coatings. The emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and water dispersable granule (WDG) variants are particularly popular for their ease of use and compatibility with modern spraying equipment.

Safety and Risk Management

Acephate is classified under the GHS07 hazard symbol, indicating it is a hazardous substance with Warning as the signal word. Its hazard statements include H302 (Harmful if swallowed) and H312 (Harmful if in contact with skin). The flash point of 2°C underscores the need for careful storage and handling to prevent fire risks.

The HS Code for Acephate is 29299040, which facilitates international trade and regulatory compliance. The UN1648 3/PG 2 designation highlights its classification as a hazardous material during transportation.

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

As a leading manufacturer of agrochemicals, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. has established itself as a trusted supplier of high-quality insecticides and formulations. The company’s commitment to innovation and safety is reflected in its diverse product portfolio, which includes Acephate and other organophosphate compounds.

With a focus on sustainable agriculture, Hebei Dongfeng adheres to international standards for chemical production and environmental responsibility. Their facilities are equipped with advanced technology to ensure the consistency and purity of their products, making them a preferred choice for farmers and agricultural professionals worldwide.

Industry Relevance and Future Prospects

Acephate’s enduring relevance in the agricultural sector is due to its efficacy and versatility. However, its use is subject to regulatory scrutiny, particularly in regions with strict environmental and health standards. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides guidelines for chemical safety, which are critical for ensuring the responsible use of insecticides like Acephate. For more details, refer to the NIST website.

As the global demand for food production increases, the role of insecticides like Acephate will remain significant. However, the industry is also exploring bio-based alternatives and precision application technologies to minimize environmental impact. Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is actively involved in these innovations, ensuring that their products align with evolving agricultural practices.

Conclusion

Acephate stands as a testament to the advancements in agrochemical science, offering a reliable solution for pest control in diverse agricultural settings. Its chemical properties, coupled with the expertise of Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd., make it a valuable asset for farmers and agricultural stakeholders. As the industry moves toward sustainability, the continued development of safe and effective insecticides like Acephate will play a pivotal role in global food security.