Formulation of monocrotophos.

Monocrotophos is an old product that is still very much appreciated as a low-cost and efficient insecticide. Due to its water solubility, formulation recipes are rather simple and no sophisticated equipment is required in a formulation plant. Formulations can easily be manufactured locally where they are going to be used. Formulants and the formulation process do not add much to the total product cost. Monocrotophos is chemically not very stable. A consequence of this property is the marginal shelf life of formulations when stored under tropical conditions. On the other hand, the limited stability of monocrotophos is a most favorable feature in the environment that outweighs the marginal shelf life. By strictly using the "first in-first out" system in stock management, no major problems relating to storage stability will be encountered. An unfavorable characteristic of monocrotophos is its high mammalian toxicity. The objective of future projects will be to develop less toxic formulations.