Physico‐chemical studies on agricultural sprays. I.–General principles of incorporating surface‐active agents as spray supplements

Abstract

Abstract A brief review is made of the possible effects produced by the use of surface‐active agents as spray supplements. The influence of surface‐active agents is discussed with relation to the stability of spray fluids, the mechanism of spray droplet formation, the impaction of droplets and spray deposition. Reference is also made to the phytotoxicity of spray materials, the fungicidal and insecticidal action of the surface‐active agents and the retention of spray materials on the target surfaces. Particular emphasis is placed on some effects of surface‐active agents that may often be overlooked.