SEDL / STP / STP1400-EB / STP10435S

The Development of a Spread Test Method for Agricultural Spray Adjuvants

Volgas, G
Manager, Product Development Laboratory, Helena Research, Extension, and Service Center, Memphis, TN

Pages: 11    Published: Jan 2001

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Abstract

The ASTM E-35 subcommittee on spray adjuvants has been working for several years on adjuvant test methodology. This subcommittee has already obtained approval on several test methods and has been working on the development of a spreading test for the last 3 years. This method is not intended to replace sophisticated image analysis techniques currently being used in some laboratories. It is intended to provide a simple, inexpensive evaluation of the spread characteristics of spray droplets.

The method employs a circular grid overlaying a thin sheet of Parafilm® M and visual observations by the user to determine spread radii. The spread radii of a standardized droplet can be determined reasonably to within 0.5 mm. This test has now been validated by an inter-laboratory study conducted by members of ASTM E-35. This paper will present the data and thereby provide a permanent record. The paper will also attempt to provide an accounting for the standard conditions set in this test method.