Herbicide Formulations

Herbicides are frequently insoluble in water. Usually applied at low rates, they must be combined with a carrier that is a liquid or solid. Combination with a carrier makes application easier, increases effectiveness, and ensures even distribution of herbicides.

Herbicides are usually available in three formulations: water-soluble salts, emulsifiable concentrates, and granules. Some products (e.g., 2,4-D) can come as water-soluble salts, emulsifiable concentrates or esters, and granules.

Agrochemicals also come as wettable powders and flowables, but these are not common in Asia. The active ingredient of a Wettable powder does not dissolve readily in standard solvents. The product usually consists of a dry herbicide along with an inert carrier (e.g., clay) and agents that allow dispersal and suspension of fine particles when added to a liquid. A As for wettable powders, the active ingredient of a flowable is not readily soluble in water or organic solvents. It consists of finely ground wettable powder suspended in a small amount of liquid and mixed with emulsifiers.