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Emulsifiable concentrate (EC)

ECs are still one of the most common formulation types for crop protection products worldwide. When EC formulations are diluted with water in the spray tank they form a spontaneous emulsion, with emulsion droplets in the size range of 0.1 to 1.0μm.

The spontaneous emulsion can be achieved by selecting one or more surfactants based upon their ability to emulsify the solvent system, including the active ingredient, into water. It is by means of balancing the water soluble and oil soluble surfactant components at the water/solvent interface that a physically stable emulsion is formed. When sprayed, the dilute emulsion gives a uniform and accurate application of active ingredient on the crop, which is essential for effective pest control.

 

EC formulation diagram Benefits
  • Simple to manufacture
  • Relatively high biological activity
  • Good chemical stability
  • Spontaneous emulsification upon dilution
Limitations

  • Use expensive solvents containing harmful VOCs
  • Solvents may affect plastics and rubbers in spray applicators
  • Active ingredients needs to be fully soluble in the solvent over a range of temperatures
  • Use of water miscible solvents can cause active ingredient crystallisation problems upon dilution

The Formulator's Toolbox (Full Version)

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How to formulate more sustainable emulsifiable concentrates (ECs)

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Products recommended for EC

To improve the spontaneous emulsification of an EC on addition to water in the spray tank, anionic emulsifiers can be added. Due to the overall charge on an anionic emulsifier, it provides additional electrostatic stabilisation.

Atlox™ 4838B

Atlox™ 4838B

An oil-soluble anionic emulsifier for improved stability and blooming of formulations upon dilution. Commonly used as part of a triangle screen formulation approach.

Crodafos™ C10/<wbr>5A

Crodafos™ C10/5A

An alkoxylated phosphate ester with good performance as a wetting agent or emulsifier in highly loaded micronutrient systems.

Example formulations

Formulation finder

Get inspiration from our wide range of tried and tested formulation recipes created by our application scientists globally. Covering multiple agrochemical formulation types, the formulation finder helps you to deliver the innovative solutions you need.

Scientist testing a crop protection formulation

The Formulator's Toolbox

Our highly sought-after training guide that is designed to give formulation scientists an introduction to each formulation type and how to develop them along with troubleshooting and formulation advice.

Looking for tips to formulate an EC? Contact us today!