Application of microcapsule pesticides in termite prevention
Microcapsule pesticides are a type of pesticide formulation that uses polymer materials as a wall or capsule to encapsulate the active ingredients through chemical, physical, or physicochemical methods. This creates a semi-permeable membrane, allowing the pesticide to be uniformly dispersed in various additives such as water or solid fillers. Compared to traditional formulations, microcapsule pesticides offer a key advantage: sustained release. This helps extend the effectiveness of the pesticide, increases its utilization rate, and reduces degradation due to environmental factors. It also lowers toxicity and phytotoxicity, minimizes environmental pollution, and reduces the risk of poisoning for operators [2]. Unlike conventional pesticides, where the active ingredient directly contacts the target organism, microcapsules separate the active substance from the target using a protective wall. This unique feature gives microcapsule pesticides superior properties not found in other formulations.
In China, research on microcapsule pesticides began later, but significant progress has been made since 1978. Early products included microcapsules of parathion, phoxim, methyl sulfonate, phosphorus, and malathion [3]. With lower development costs compared to new pesticide compounds, and growing interest in microcapsule technology, the field has seen rapid growth in the past decade. New products such as lambda-cypermethrin, chlorpyrifos, avermectin, and bifenthrin have emerged, increasing from over ten products in 2004 to dozens today. These are used in agriculture, forestry, pest control, and even fruit preservation. Advances in preparation techniques have led to nano-scale microcapsules, improving stability, safety, and performance [5]. As a result, microcapsule technology is becoming a major trend in new pesticide formulations.
Termite prevention methods in construction typically include physical barriers, chemical barriers, and monitoring systems. Physical barriers, such as metal mesh or gravel, prevent termites from entering buildings by creating a physical separation from food sources. They are safe and long-lasting but require precise installation. Chemical barriers involve applying insecticides to soil or wood to create a protective layer. While effective, they can pose environmental and health risks. Monitoring and control technologies, like the Sentricon® system, use bait stations to detect and eliminate termite colonies, aligning with integrated pest management (IPM) principles.
The use of termite preventive agents has evolved from inorganic compounds like arsenic trioxide to organic options such as pyrethroids, organophosphates, and neonicotinoids. In China, chlorpyrifos, bifenthrin, and imidacloprid are widely used. Despite their benefits, these chemicals raise concerns about long-term environmental impact.
The registration of microcapsule pesticides in China has increased significantly. As of October 2011, 40 microcapsule suspensions were registered, covering herbicides, insecticides, and termite control agents. However, only one product—5% bifenthrin microcapsule suspension—is specifically approved for termite control. Other companies, like Sumitomo Chemical, have previously registered similar products, but some have expired.
The feasibility of using microcapsule pesticides in termite prevention is promising. Their sustained release, reduced environmental impact, and improved safety make them ideal for long-term protection. For example, experiments in Zhejiang Province showed that microcapsule-treated soil remained effective against termites for up to six years. Despite these advantages, challenges remain, including high production costs and limited market awareness.
In conclusion, while chemical barriers still dominate termite prevention in China, microcapsule pesticides offer a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative. Continued innovation, policy support, and market development are essential to promote their widespread use and improve termite control strategies across the country.
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