Imidacloprid Technical
What is Imidacloprid Technical?
Imidacloprid Technical is a highly effective systemic insecticide belonging to the neonicotinoid class. It acts as an agonist to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and eventual death. This technical-grade material serves as the active ingredient for formulating various crop protection products.
Key Specifications of Imidacloprid Technical
- Chemical Name: (E)-1-(6-chloro-3-pyridylmethyl)-N-nitroimidazolidin-2-ylideneamine
- CAS No: 138261-41-3
- Molecular Formula: C9H10ClN5O2
- Molecular Weight: 255.7
- Appearance: Colorless to pale yellow crystalline powder
- Melting Point: 143.8°C
- Purity: ≥95% (Technical Grade)
- Solubility: Water (0.51 g/L at 20°C), soluble in organic solvents like dichloromethane
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient Content | ≥95% | HPLC |
| Water Content | ≤0.5% | Karl Fischer |
| Acetone Insoluble | ≤0.5% | Gravimetric |
| pH Value | 6.0-8.0 | pH Meter |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.5% | Gravimetric |
| Particle Size | 90% passing 45μm | Laser Diffraction |
FAQ About Imidacloprid Technical
Q: What crops is Imidacloprid Technical most effective on?
A: Imidacloprid Technical demonstrates excellent efficacy against sucking insects in various crops including cotton, rice, vegetables, fruit trees, and ornamentals. It's particularly effective against aphids, leafhoppers, whiteflies, thrips, and some soil insects. The systemic action allows protection of both above-ground and below-ground plant parts.
Q: What is the recommended application rate for Imidacloprid Technical?
A: Application rates vary depending on formulation type and target pest. Generally, foliar applications range from 25-100 g a.i./ha, while soil applications typically use 50-175 g a.i./ha. Seed treatment formulations commonly apply 0.5-2.0 g a.i./kg seed. Always consult local agricultural authorities for specific recommendations in your region.
Q: How should Imidacloprid Technical be stored?
A: Store in original tightly closed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Maintain storage temperature between 5-35°C. Keep away from food, feed, and beverages. Avoid contact with oxidizing agents and strong acids/bases. Shelf life is typically 2 years when stored properly.
Physical and Chemical Properties
| Vapor Pressure | 1×10-7 Pa (25°C) |
| Partition Coefficient (log Pow) | 0.57 (20°C) |
| Hydrolysis Stability | Stable in neutral conditions; DT50 30 days (pH 9) |
| Photodegradation | Stable to sunlight in water; DT50 34 days |
| Volatility | Low volatility (Henry's Law Constant 6.5×10-11 Pam3mol-1) |
More FAQs About Imidacloprid Technical
Q: What is the mode of action of Imidacloprid Technical?
A: Imidacloprid Technical acts as a neurotoxin that binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) in the insect nervous system, causing overstimulation of nerve cells. This binding is irreversible and leads to paralysis and death. Unlike mammals, insects have a different receptor subtype that makes them particularly susceptible to imidacloprid's effects.
Q: How quickly does Imidacloprid Technical work on pests?
A: The onset of action typically occurs within hours of exposure, with visible knockdown effects within 24-48 hours. Complete mortality usually takes 2-4 days depending on environmental conditions and pest species. The compound provides both immediate contact activity and long-lasting systemic protection (typically 2-8 weeks depending on application method).
Q: Is Imidacloprid Technical compatible with other pesticides?
A: Imidacloprid Technical shows good compatibility with most commonly used fungicides and insecticides, though tank mixtures should always be tested for physical compatibility first. It exhibits synergistic effects with certain pyrethroids. Avoid mixing with strongly alkaline products (pH>8) as this may accelerate hydrolysis.
Toxicological Profile
| Acute Oral Toxicity (Rat) | LD50 = 450 mg/kg (WHO Class II) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity (Rabbit) | LD50 > 5000 mg/kg |
| Inhalational Toxicity (Rat) | LC50 > 5323 mg/m3 |
| Eye Irritation (Rabbit) | Mild irritant |
| Skin Sensitization (Guinea Pig) | Not a sensitizer |
| ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake) | 0.06 mg/kg bw/day |
| ARfD (Acute Reference Dose) | 0.08 mg/kg bw |
Additional FAQ Section
Q: What environmental considerations apply to Imidacloprid Technical?
A: Imidacloprid Technical is moderately persistent in soil (DT50 40-130 days) and highly water soluble, requiring careful management to prevent aquatic contamination. It's classified as highly toxic to bees (avoid application during flowering) and shows toxicity to some aquatic invertebrates. Proper buffer zones should be maintained near water bodies according to local regulations.
Q: What personal protective equipment (PPE) is recommended when handling Imidacloprid Technical?
A: Minimum PPE includes chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile or neoprene), protective clothing, goggles, and dust mask (N95 or equivalent). When handling concentrated material or during prolonged exposure, use a respirator with organic vapor cartridge. Always follow OSHA or local workplace safety regulations for pesticide handling.
Q: How does Imidacloprid Technical compare to other neonicotinoids?
A: Compared to other neonicotinoids, Imidacloprid Technical offers excellent systemic properties with moderate persistence. It generally shows higher activity against sucking pests than thiamethoxam but slightly less than dinotefuran. Its cost-effectiveness and established efficacy make it widely used despite newer alternatives being available.
Formulation Types
- Wettable Powder (WP): 70-95% a.i., for foliar application
- Water Dispersible Granule (WDG): 50-70% a.i., improved handling
- Soluble Concentrate (SL): 10-30% a.i., for seed treatment
- Granules (GR): 0.5-5% a.i., for soil application
- Microencapsulated (CS): 10-30% a.i., controlled release
- Seed Treatment (FS): 30-60% a.i., for pest protection