Pesticide Formulation

A formulation is a mixture of the active ingredient in a pesticide with
other inert (inactive) substances. Different formulations may be used
differently. Some are to be used direct from the package, while others need
to be diluted with water, oil, or other carriers. The reason for mixing the
active ingredient with other substances is to make handling and
application safer, easier, and more accurate.
Some active ingredients do not dissolve in water or oil. Others can only be
manufactured as solids. Still others are liquids or gases in their original
forms. By mixing the active ingredient with other materials such as
solvents, wetting agents, stickers, powders, or granules, manufacturers
produce formulations that can be handled accurately and safely by
application machinery. A few pesticides are now formulated for controlled
release. These pesticides allow the active ingredient to be slowly released
after application. This provides better control for certain pests at possibly
lower rates and over a longer period of time.