ID 318

An approach to measure area and volume distributions of ultra-coarse agricultural sprays

 

Abstract:

With the introduction of new herbicide tolerant crop species, many regulations have been created to minimize off-target herbicide movement. Requirements on spray application parameters including nozzle type, spray pressure, application speed, and restrictions on tank-mix components have been instituted to reduce the risk of drift but could affect the coverage of plant surfaces. Large droplets generated by the required spray application parameters reduce the risk of off-target movement but may decrease spray coverage and herbicide efficacy. Many previous studies have attempted to measure the effects of these spray parameters on coverage but were conducted under field conditions. The objectives of this study are to develop methods to measure the effects of spray application parameters on deposition coverage and volumetric spray distribution in a controlled application chamber. Utilizing water sensitive paper and collection devices, the area and volume distributions can be measured without interference by the outdoor environment. These methods will provide the ability to research other spray application parameters in a controlled setting and insights for future herbicide applications.