The pure product is white cry stal. m.p. 172-173℃ , solubility is: dichloromethane 16%, DMF 6.4$, chloroform 6.4%, acetonitrile 2.3%, acetone 1.8%, ethanol 0.45%, hexane <0.002%, water 12%. Part ition coeffi cients (n-octanol/water) 0.44 (pH=5), 0.017 (pH=7), 0.01 (pH=9). Easily decomposed and metabolized in dilute aqueous solutions and soil environments. Industrial product m.p. 169 to 173° C.
Herbicide. It is used in rice seedling field, home field and direct seeding field to prevent and control annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and sedge weeds, and also has some inhibitory eff ect on barnyard grass.
Nicosulfuron is a selective, systemic herbicide belonging to the sulfonylurea family. It is primarily used for post-emergent control of annual and perennial grasses and broadleaf weeds in maize (corn) cultivation. Known for its low application rates and high efficacy, it is a vital component of modern weed management strategies in agriculture.
Key Features
Selective Control: Targets weeds without damaging maize crops.
Systemic Action: Absorbed by leaves and roots, translocating throughout the weed.
Low Dosage: Effective at minimal application rates, reducing environmental load.
Broad Spectrum: Controls a wide range of grasses and broadleaf weeds.
Applications
Crops Treated
Weeds Controlled
Grasses:
Broadleaf Weeds:
Lamb’s Quarters (Chenopodium album)
Pigweed (Amaranthus spp.)
Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti)
Mechanism of Action
Nicosulfuron inhibits the enzyme acetolactate synthase (ALS), which is essential for the synthesis of branched-chain amino acids in plants. This leads to disrupted protein synthesis, stunted growth, and eventual death of the targeted weeds.
Advantages
Effective Weed Control: Provides consistent results against a broad spectrum of weeds.
Crop Safety: Selectively targets weeds without affecting maize crops when used as directed.
Low Environmental Impact: Minimal residue due to low dosage requirements.
Resistance Management: Can be rotated with herbicides of different action modes.
Safety and Environmental Considerations
Handling and Storage
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during handling and application.
Store in a cool, dry place away from food, feed, and water sources.
Environmental Impact
Aquatic Safety: Avoid application near water bodies to prevent contamination.
Soil Binding: Adsorbs to soil particles, reducing leaching potential.
Regulatory Compliance
Limitations
Resistance Risk: Repeated use may lead to the development of ALS-resistant weed populations.
Application Timing: Most effective on young, actively growing weeds.
Narrow Crop Range: Primarily used for maize; not suitable for other crops.
Conclusion
Nicosulfuron is a reliable and efficient herbicide for controlling grasses and broadleaf weeds in maize cultivation. Its systemic action, low dosage requirements, and selectivity make it a valuable tool for farmers. Proper application practices and adherence to resistance management strategies are essential for sustainable use.
