Physical compatibility and stability of pesticide mixtures at different spray volumes

Abstract

Available information on physical compatibility and stability of pesticide mixtures is scarce and often divergent. This knowledge is of fundamental importance in the success of pest, disease, and weed control programs. Compatibility and stability of two glyphosate formulations (WG and SL) in a mixture with fluazinam + deltamethrin + trifloxystrobin/cyproconazole at four diluted water concentrations and different times were evaluated under laboratory conditions. The evaluations were performed at the following time intervals: Immediately after mixing and 1, 5, 10, 30, 120, 900, and 1,440 minutes after the mixing of pesticides. Scores were assigned on a scale ranging from 1 to 5, where 1 meant immediate separation of compounds and 5 the perfect mixture stability up to 30 minutes. The data were submitted to descriptive statistics and presented in tables. Mixture stability differed in glyphosate formulations and their concentrations due to the used spray solution volume. Distinct mixtures between glyphosate (SL) and deltamethrin, as well as between glyphosate (WG) and deltamethrin, were physically compatible when stirred again even after 24 hours at rest. The mixture containing glyphosate (SL), deltamethrin, and fluazinam and trifloxystrobin/ cyproconazole was incompatible at a volume of 30 L ha-1.