Granular pesticide carriers that possess high quality attributes are needed. Some of the main considerations with which pesticide formulators and users contend include physical durability, flowability, ballistics properties, chemical compatibility, favorable econometrics, and pesticidal efficacy. An evaluation of the commercially available mined and recycled materials, as well as an analysis of the requirements for efficacious granules, has led the researchers to define a combination of criteria that was previously unrealized in any of the selections of the then commercially available granular pesticide carriers. The research objective that emerged, developing a more optimal pesticide granule, was defined by these criteria. Many dozens of prototype formulations were produced in a laboratory granulation system and were evaluated by various physical test methods until the original design criteria were met. Subsequently, a period of field efficacy trials took place in which suitability for particular active ingredients, target pests, and cultural conditions was determined. An engineered composite granule and production process was developed during the course of this research. The resulting granules have a unique combination of characteristics: robust enough to withstand the physical stresses of bulk handling, formulating and field application, good flowability and compositional characteristics, plus a unique degree of dispersion upon the application of a small amount of moisture over the treated area after the granules have been applied. This post-application water dispersion mechanism appears to allow enhanced pesticidal efficacy for soil treatment and systemic active ingredients, and has demonstrated numerous aesthetic and hazard reduction attributes of interest. The resulting material has competitive economics, and has been patented and trademarked as DG Lite®.

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