2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) is one of the world's most utilized selective systemic herbicides, renowned for its cost-effectiveness, reliable performance, and broad-spectrum weed control. This article offers an in-depth analysis of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, its technical data, global market trends, key application areas, and recent developments in the industry. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. is at the forefront of innovation and quality assurance for this fundamental agrochemical.
Product Overview: 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid (2,4-D)
Global Industry Trends of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
The global market for 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid continues on an upward trajectory, driven by the surging demand for high-efficiency, cost-effective weed management across agriculture, forestry, lawn, and non-crop sectors [Grand View Research]. Major economies are increasing investments in sustainable crop production, and recent studies highlight innovations in formulation and delivery systems that enhance 2,4-D's selectivity and environmental profile (ScienceDirect). According to the Crop Science Forum, the annual consumption of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid exceeded 300,000 tons worldwide in 2023, underscoring its critical role in global food security.
- Asia-Pacific: Fastest market growth, where 2,4-D is pivotal for rice, wheat, and maize cultivation.
- North America & Europe: Focus on formulated blends and reduced-volatility esters for turf, cereals and pastures.
- Emerging Markets: Increased adoption for soybean, sugarcane, and resistant weed control strategies.
Technical Parameters of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
Parameter |
Technical Indicator |
Chemical Formula |
C8H6Cl2O3 |
Molecular Weight |
221.04 g/mol |
Physical State |
White to off-white crystalline powder |
Purity |
≥97% (TC) |
Solubility in Water |
900 mg/L (at 25°C) |
pKa |
2.64 |
Melting Point |
140-144°C |
Mode of Action |
Systemic, acts as synthetic auxin (plant hormone mimetic) |
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid: Technical Parameter Trends (2014-2023)
Applications of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
- Cereal crops: Wheat, maize, rice—selective post-emergence control of broadleaf weeds.
- Pastures & rangeland: Maintains forage quality free from pigweed, thistle, ragweed etc.
- Lawn and turf: Key active for residential and golf course broadleaf weed management.
- Forestry and industrial: Non-crop rights-of-way, railways, and industrial sites for broadleaf brush control.
- Aquatic weed control: Approved for specific invasive water weed species—utilizing water-soluble formulations.
Main Technical Specification Comparison – 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
Form |
Appearance |
Purity (%) |
Water Solubility (mg/L) |
Melting Point (°C) |
Technical Grade (TC) |
Crystalline Powder |
≥97 |
900 |
140-144 |
Soluble Concentrate (SL) |
Clear Liquid |
≈48 (active) |
Completely Soluble |
- |
Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
Amber Liquid |
≈34 (active, ester) |
Forms Emulsion |
- |
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid – Main Technical Index Comparison
Global 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid Application Distribution (2023)
Global 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid Price Trend (2014-2023)
Expert FAQ: Professional Terminology About 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid
Q1: What is “TC” (Technical Concentrate) and how does it differ from “SL” or “EC” in 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid?
A1: TC is the high-purity raw herbicide (≥97%) used mainly in industrial-scale production or for further formulation.
SL (Soluble Liquid) and
EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate) are commercial formulations with lower active content, designed for direct field use.
Q2: What is the standard purity index for 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid supplied globally?
A2: Internationally, high-quality
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid is sold at ≥97% for TC grade as required by
FAO standards; formulated products contain 34-62% w/w active as SL, EC, or DMA salt.
Q3: What are the recommended application rates and spray volumes for cereal crops?
A3: Rates typically range from 0.5–2.0 kg/ha acid equivalent depending on crop, weed spectrum & regional guidelines (
AgriFutures).
Q4: Which installation and handling standards should be observed?
A4: Applicators must comply with
ISO 27065:2023 PPE guidelines and local agrochemical stewardship policies. Equipment should allow for precise low-drift nozzles.
Q5: What is the shelf life and recommended storage standard?
A5: When stored in sealed, original container111s,
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid is stable for ≥2 years at ambient temperature, away from moisture or incompatibles.
Q6: What about environmental residues, bioaccumulation, and degradation?
A6: 2,4-D is readily metabolized by soil microbes (half-life (EFSA).
Q7: What major international certifications apply to 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid?
A7: Globally, it is registered under
FAO/WHO specifications, and suppliers like
Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. affirm
ISO 9001 and
ISO 14001 QMS/environmental certifications.
Market Intelligence and Competitive Advantages
- Pioneering low-volatility ester and salt formulations to address off-target spray drift (International Plant Nutrition Institute).
- Sustainable manufacturing—recycling process solvents and reduced effluent via proprietary green chemistry routes.
- Stringent in-house QA/QC and back-integrated sourcing at Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.
- Flexible customer packaging (bulk, drum, customized labeling for multi-national compliance).
- Logistics expertise—“just-in-time,” global reach, full REACH/EPA shipment documentation.
Why Partner With Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd.?
As a specialized manufacturer of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and comprehensive agrochemicals, Hebei Dongfeng Chemical Technology Co., Ltd. brings together decades of R&D, manufacturing scale-up, advanced reaction control, and strict QA/QC, under globally recognized certifications (ISO 9001, ISO 14001). Our robust expertise and experience facilitate tailored solutions for international clients across 70+ countries.
- Customized formulation—acid, salt, or ester, with regulatory-compliant adjuvant systems.
- Technical support from regulatory filing, residue/eco-tox data to tailor-made field applications.
- Responsive after-sales and traceability for every shipped batch.
References & Authoritative Sources
-
2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, Grandview Research (2023)
-
Environmental fate and residual study of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid in Agricultural Soils, ScienceDirect (2023)
-
Global 2,4-D Market Report, Crop Science Forum (2023)
-
2,4-D in Weed Management – Guidelines for Use, AgriFutures AU (2022)
-
Peer review of 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid hazard assessments, EFSA Journal (2020)
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FAO Specifications for Plant Protection Products, FAOLEX (2019)
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Innovation Trends in Agrochemical Formulations, International Plant Nutrition Institute (IPNI, 2022)