A method of formulating insecticides and other chemicals for controlled release. Microscopic spheres containing the chemical are formed from a polymer with various degrees of cross-linking, thickness of the capsule wall, and sphere size, thereby regulating release rates of the chemicals. This usually produces a longer-lasting method of application, reduced volatility, and lower mammalian toxicity. Sometimes bees are at greater risk, however, due to their tendency to confuse the spheres with pollen grains.
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© 2008 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.
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(2008). Microencapsulation. In: Capinera, J.L. (eds) Encyclopedia of Entomology. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-6359-6_4598
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-6359-6_4598
Publisher Name: Springer, Dordrecht
Print ISBN: 978-1-4020-6242-1
Online ISBN: 978-1-4020-6359-6
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