ARS | Publication request: PROPARGYL BROMIDE: PRELIMINARY EFFICACY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESULTS

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Proceedings
Publication Acceptance Date: October 1, 2000
Publication Date: November 6, 2000
Citation: Dungan, R.S., Ma, Q., Gan, J., Papiernik, S.K., Yates, S.R. 2000. Propargyl bromide: preliminary efficacy and environmental results. 2000 Annual International Research Conference on Methyl Bromide Alternatives and Emmissions. Abstract. Orlando, FL. Nov. 6-9, 2000. Paper No. 29. pp. 29-1 to 29-3.

Technical Abstract: With the phase-out of methyl bromide to be completed by 2005 in the U.S., an intensive search for effective replacement fumigants is being conducted. Propargyl bromide (PBr, 3-bromopropyne) is a potential chemical alternative. Little information exists regarding the efficacy and behavior of PBr in the environment. Preliminary results are reported here. Efficacy of PBr against barnyardgrass, yellow nutsedge, Fusarium oxysporum, and the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans was determined in two soils. Poor efficacy was observed in organic-rich soils due to the rapid degradation of PBr. Cumulative volatilization of PBr from soil columns indicated emissions losses ~2 times lower than that of methyl bromide under the same conditions. Tarping the soil with standard HDPE film had only a small impact on cumulative emissions. A virtually impermeable film showed much lower transmission of PBr, and should be an effective emission reduction strategy. Surface application of ammonium thiosulfate, which has been shown to be effective in reducing methyl bromide emissions, reduced PBr cumulative volatilization by ~90%. Volatilization of PBr is expected to be substantial under standard application conditions(shank injection, 1-mil HDPE surface tarp), so measures to reduce its emisssion should be considered in the early development of this alternative fumigant.