Diazinon

Pure product is colorless oily liquid, slightly fragrant. b.p.83 ～ 84℃ ,/26.66×10-3Pa125℃ /133.32Pa, vapor pressure 1.867×10-2Pa(20℃ ), refractive index n20D1.4981, relative density 1.116 ～ 1.118(20℃ ). Miscible with acetone, ethanol, xylene, soluble in petroleum ether, solubility in water 0.004% at room temperature, unstable above 50℃ , unstable to acid and alkali, stable to light. It is slowly hydrolyzed in water and dilute acid, and trace moisture in storage can prompt its decomposition and turn into highly toxic tetraethyl pyrophosphorothioate. Industrial product is light brown liquid.

It is a non-invasive insecticide and has good control eff ect on many pests such as Lepidoptera and Homoptera

Diazinon is an organophosphate insecticide widely used to control a variety of pests in agricultural, horticultural, and domestic settings. It is particularly effective against soil and foliar insects and has been employed to manage pests such as aphids, grubs, and rootworms. Its efficacy, broad-spectrum action, and moderate residual activity make it a valuable tool in pest management.

Key Features

1. Chemical Formula: C12H21N2O3PS

2. Mode of Action: Inhibits acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for the nervous system, causing paralysis and death in pests.

3. Target Pests: Aphids, beetles, cutworms, root maggots, and other soil and foliar insects.

4. Formulations: Available as emulsifiable concentrates, granules, and wettable powders.

Applications

Agricultural Use

• Crop Protection: Used on a variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and cereals, to control soil and foliar pests.

• Soil Treatment: Effective against root maggots, wireworms, and other soil-dwelling insects.

Horticulture

• Ornamentals: Protects ornamental plants from aphids, thrips, and scale insects.

• Turf and Lawns: Controls grubs, ants, and other lawn pests.

Public Health

• Household Pest Control: Used in domestic settings to manage ants, cockroaches, and fleas.

Mode of Action

Diazinon functions by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme critical for nerve impulse transmission. This inhibition disrupts the nervous system of pests, leading to paralysis and death. Its residual activity ensures continued protection for a moderate duration after application.

Advantages

1. Broad-Spectrum Control: Effective against a wide range of soil and foliar pests.

2. Versatile Application: Suitable for agricultural, horticultural, and domestic use.

3. Moderate Residual Activity: Provides extended protection against pests.

4. Cost-Effective: Economical for large-scale pest management.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Handling and Storage

• Protective Measures: Use gloves, masks, and protective clothing when handling.

• Storage: Keep in a secure, cool, and dry location away from food and water sources.

Environmental Impact

• Aquatic Toxicity: Highly toxic to fish and aquatic organisms; avoid contamination of water bodies.

• Persistence: Degrades relatively quickly in soil but may pose risks to non-target organisms.

Human Health Risks

• Toxicity: Classified as moderately toxic to humans; exposure may cause headaches, nausea, or dizziness.

• Safety Guidelines: Follow recommended application rates and avoid prolonged exposure.

Limitations

1. Environmental Concerns: Toxic to aquatic life and beneficial insects like bees.

2. Resistance Management: Overuse can lead to pest resistance; rotate with other insecticides.

3. Regulatory Restrictions: Banned or restricted in several countries due to health and environmental concerns.

Conclusion

Diazinon remains a valuable insecticide for managing a wide range of pests in various settings. Its broad-spectrum action, moderate residual activity, and cost-effectiveness make it a practical choice for pest control. However, its use requires careful adherence to safety and environmental guidelines to mitigate potential risks to non-target organisms and human health.