Pirimiphos-methyl

Pirimiphos-methyl is an organophosphate insecticide that is used to control a wide range of insects. It is a systemic insecticide, which means it is absorbed by plants and distributed throughout their tissues, making it effective against insects that feed on them.

Chemical Properties

Pirimiphos-methyl is a colorless to amber liquid with a mild odor. It is soluble in water and most organic solvents. The chemical formula for pirimiphos-methyl is C11H20N3O3PS.

Uses

Pirimiphos-methyl is used to control a wide range of insects, including aphids, whiteflies, thrips, beetles, and mites. It is used on a variety of crops, including cotton, corn, wheat, and soybeans. It is also used in stored grain to control weevils and other stored product pests.

Health Effects

Exposure to pirimiphos-methyl can cause a variety of health effects, depending on the amount and duration of exposure. Acute exposure can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, headache, dizziness, and weakness. Chronic exposure can cause damage to the nervous system.

Environmental Impact

Pirimiphos-methyl is highly toxic to aquatic organisms and bees. It is moderately persistent in soil, with a half-life of 10-30 days. It is not likely to leach into groundwater due to its low solubility in water.

Regulation

In the United States, pirimiphos-methyl is regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It is classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP), which means it can only be used by certified applicators.

See Also

• Organophosphate poisoning
• Pesticide regulation in the United States
• Environmental impact of pesticides

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  Pirimiphos-methyl
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  Pirimiphos-methyl synthesis