Abstract

Controlled release formulations (CRFs) are intended to improve the delivery of pesticides and related biologically active substances. The consequent improvement in efficiency reduces losses in use and has many benefits, such as reduction in exposure to both workers and the environment, particularly in minimizing leaching and evaporation. This article introduces the advantages of CRFs and provides a theoretical rationale for their use based on pseudo-first-order loss kinetics, which are typical for pesticide dissipation in the environment. Thus, the greater the loss rate, especially for pesticides of short duration, the greater the potential for improvement in delivery to the target pest. As a consequence of this principle, reduced levels of pesticide delivered efficiently can be as efficacious as higher amounts of conventional formulations.

The types of CRFs are introduced and are classified as physical, chemical, or biological. The kinetics of release from CRFs is central to their successful use, and the mathematical basics of this are described. The mechanisms of release vary according to the type of formulation, and these are covered for physical and chemical types. Common release characteristics include first order, diffusion (square root of time) based, and zero order (constant). Release kinetics are usually measured under controlled laboratory conditions, but field determination are preferable.

Design of properties of CRFs then follow. The main groups of the physical-type formulations, such as reservoirs with release-rate controlling membranes and without membrane and the monolith or matrix structures, are those based on microencapsulated liquid cores in sprayable concentrate formulations, and polymeric matrix methods that are often fabricated as granules. The polymers used and the approaches employed for designing these types of CRFs are introduced with emphasis on encapsulation methods, such as phase separation and interfacial polymerization. In addition, other formulation types are included, such as laminates, coated granules, microparticles, matrix granules (swellable and nonswellable), matrix devices for animal and public health protection, plastic films, and mulches. The article closes with the recent biological approach to formulation based on living or dead genetically modified microorganisms containing proteinaceous toxins.