【FAT Video】Bayer CropScience - Development and Cases of Pesticide Delivery Technology

Bernhard Grimmig, Head of Formulation Technology, Bayer CropScience, delivered a speech titled ″Development and Cases of Pesticide Delivery Technology″ at the 2nd Ag Formulation & Application Technology Congress  (FAT 2020) during 17-18, December 2020 in Hangzhou, China. Bernhard has long years of exploration and practical experiences in the field of formulation. At this meeting, Bernhard focused on the key factors affecting the bioavailability of agrochemicals as well as how to optimize / reduce the use of crop protection chemicals through formulation design and Bayer’s pesticide delivery technology. Bayer CropScience always adheres to innovative development and constant exploration of new ideas, new methods, new technologies and new solutions.

Bernhard believes that considerations for designing high-quality formulations include: the PhysChem property of active(s), the mode of action (systemic vs. contact), product concept (A.I. loading, handling, application, carrier volume).High-quality formulations must ensure maximized performance of active ingredients, with easy to handle, good solubility, good mixability, good compatibility, long shelf life and are safely produced; quality formulations protect the environment, with lower use rates, lower drift, lower volatility, no residues in soil and water, safe to apply and can meet all relevant regulatory requirements.

The approaches to optimization or reduction of the use and safety of plant protection products through formulation design include: 1) Improvement of the bioavailability of active ingredients, such as the delivery of active ingredients to the target (bioavailability), reduction of off-target movements (drift, volatility and wash-off) and controlled/sustained release of actives, all of which depend on how active ingredients are transferred from sprayer nozzle to the target; 2) Spraying only where required (patch spraying), spraying only as little as required (optimal dosing pest / weed-specific). These applications require improved spraying using sensors,  precision spraying systems and spraying maps.

In summary, the use of chemical pesticides can be reduced by optimizing the design of formulations; pesticides need to be safe for humans and the environment; advanced application technology and digital agriculture will change the traditional way of farming; understanding of factors determining bioavailability of synthetic and biological crop protection agents is key to optimize delivery and efficacy of pesticides; formulations can be designed in manifold ways to optimize the use of pesticides and reduce environmental and health impacts. Bayer engages in various collaborations and open innovation approaches to bring in new ideas and explore new technologies in all areas.

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