What does the acronym "EC" stand for in pesticide formulations?

The acronym "EC" in pesticide formulations stands for "Emulsifiable Concentrates." This type of formulation is designed to contain active ingredients that are not easily soluble in water. Instead, these active ingredients are mixed with an emulsifying agent and a solvent, allowing the formulation to create a stable emulsion when mixed with water. This is particularly beneficial because it enables the effective delivery of the pesticide to the target area, ensuring that it can perform adequately in pest control.

Emulsifiable concentrates are popular in agriculture and pest management due to their ease of use and effectiveness. When diluted with water, EC formulations create a milky solution that remains homogenous, allowing for uniform application. Understanding the nature of EC formulations helps in selecting the right pesticide for specific situations based on the characteristics and behavior of the formulation when applied.