What does the term "emulsifiable concentrates" refer to?

The term "emulsifiable concentrates" specifically refers to formulations of pesticides that can be mixed with water to create an emulsion. These concentrates contain active ingredients that are not water-soluble on their own, but when they are combined with water and emulsifying agents, they can form a stable mixture that allows for effective application. This property makes emulsifiable concentrates particularly useful in agriculture and horticulture, as they can be easily diluted for use in sprays and other applications where uniform distribution is important.

This ability to mix with water allows for ease of application and enhances the effectiveness of the pesticide. It also facilitates the formulation of products that can deliver active ingredients efficiently while minimizing the risk of phytotoxicity to plants or harm to beneficial organisms when applied correctly. The presence of emulsifying agents in the formulation helps to keep the active ingredients evenly dispersed in the solution, ensuring consistent coverage when the pesticide is applied.

Non-water soluble formulations, solid powder pesticides, and liquid insect repellents do not accurately describe emulsifiable concentrates, as they either refer to different types of pesticide formulations or do not possess the specific emulsifying qualities that allow them to mix well with water.