Acephate: Organophosphate Insecticide for Pest Control | Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.
Acephate, also known as Orthene, is a widely used organophosphate insecticide that has been a cornerstone in agricultural pest management since the 1990s. As a contact and systemic insecticide, it effectively targets a broad spectrum of pests, including leaf miners, caterpillars, sawflies, thrips, aphids, and other harmful insects in crops, vegetables, and horticultural settings. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Acephate's chemical properties, technical specifications, applications, 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 compound has a flash point of 2°C, highlighting its flammability risk, and should be stored at approximately 4°C to maintain efficacy. Acephate is readily soluble in water, chloroform, and DMSO, making it highly versatile for various formulations.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| 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 | Solid |
| Color | White to Yellow |
The compound's pKa of 11.00 suggests it is a weak base, which influences its behavior in different environmental conditions. Its solubility profile ensures effective dispersion in aqueous solutions, enhancing its application as a foliar spray. These properties make Acephate a preferred choice for agricultural professionals seeking reliable pest control solutions.
Risk and Safety Information
Acephate is classified under the GHS07 hazard symbol, indicating it is harmful if inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or ingested. The signal word "Warning" underscores the need for cautious handling. Hazard statements include H302+H312, which denote toxicity to the environment and harmful to the skin and eyes. The compound is labeled with Xn (Harmful) and F (Flammable) hazard codes, emphasizing its potential risks.
| Symbol (GHS) | Warning |
|---|---|
| Signal Word | Warning |
| Hazard Statements | H302+H312 |
| Hazard Codes | Xn, F |
| UN Number | UN1648 3/PG 2 |
| HS Code | 29299040 |
Proper safety measures, such as wearing protective gear and following storage guidelines, are critical when handling Acephate. The UN1648 classification indicates it is a hazardous material requiring specific transport and storage protocols. These safety details are essential for users to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and minimize environmental and health risks.
Applications and Pest Control Efficacy
Acephate is a contact and systemic insecticide with residual activity, making it highly effective against both sucking and chewing insects. It is widely used in crops such as cotton, ornamentals, forestry, tobacco, fruits, and vegetables, as well as in horticultural settings. The compound works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE), an enzyme critical to nerve signal transmission in pests, leading to paralysis and death.
Key pests controlled by Acephate include:
- Alfalfa looper
- Aphids
- Armyworms
- Bagworms
- Bean leafbeetle
- Blackgrass bugs
- Bollworm
- Cabbage looper
Its moderate persistence ensures long-term pest control without excessive environmental buildup. Acephate's systemic activity allows it to be absorbed by plants, providing protection from within. This dual action makes it a versatile tool for managing pests in diverse agricultural environments.
Product Variants and Formulations
Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. offers a range of Acephate formulations to suit different application 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 various agricultural practices, from foliar sprays to soil applications, ensuring flexibility for farmers and agronomists. The 97% TC and 98% TC variants are ideal for industrial use, while SP and EC formulations are suitable for direct application in crops.
About Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.
As a leading manufacturer of agrochemicals, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. has established itself as a trusted provider of high-quality pest control solutions. The company's commitment to innovation and safety is reflected in its diverse product portfolio, including Acephate and other organophosphate insecticides. With a focus on sustainable agricultural practices, Hebei Dongfeng ensures its products meet global regulatory standards while delivering effective pest management.
The company's website, https://www.dfchempest.com/, offers detailed information on its products, technical specifications, and safety data sheets. This resource is invaluable for users seeking to understand the proper use and handling of Acephate.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
While Acephate is effective against pests, its environmental impact must be carefully managed. The NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) provides guidelines on chemical safety and environmental risk assessment, emphasizing the importance of proper disposal and usage to minimize ecological harm. For more information, refer to https://www.nist.gov/.
Users should adhere to local regulations and best practices for pesticide application to protect non-target organisms and maintain soil and water quality. The HS Code 29299040 ensures Acephate is classified under international trade standards, facilitating its distribution while maintaining safety protocols.
Conclusion
Acephate remains a critical tool in modern agriculture, offering effective control of a wide range of pests through its unique chemical properties and versatile formulations. As a contact and systemic insecticide, it provides long-lasting protection for crops, vegetables, and horticultural plants. Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. continues to lead in the development and supply of high-quality Acephate products, ensuring they meet the evolving needs of the agricultural sector.
For further details about Acephate or to explore its formulations, visit the company's official website at https://www.dfchempest.com/acephate.html. Always prioritize safety and environmental responsibility when using agricultural chemicals.
References
1. NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology). https://www.nist.gov/ (Accessed: [Insert Date]).
