Pest Control Tips
Choose the Right Type of Dilutable
Dilutable insecticides are popular with pest control operators for their quick knockdown ability. Though other types of treatments are gaining acceptance, the effectiveness of dilutables ensures that they will always have a place in the PMP's toolbox.
Dilutables are available in several forms, including wettable powders, emulsifiable concentrates, microencapsulations and flowables. They offer the flexibility of fogging or misting, and crack, crevice and spot applications.
Wettable powders consist of an insecticide concentrate attached to dust particles and mixed with water to help suspend the particles. The water penetrates porous surfaces, leaving the powder and insecticide behind, where it can be picked up by passing insects. The powder forms a visible, off-white deposit or residue on some surfaces, which limits its use. This form needs frequent mixing to prevent the particles from settling.
Another form, emulsifiable concentrate, is created from insecticide, solvents and an emulsifier. After diluting with water, the mixture can be applied. The solutions penetrate materials, leaving less insecticide on the surface for contact with passing insects.
Small amounts of insecticide enclosed in tiny spheres form a dilutable referred to as microencapsulations. Microcaps of insecticide are suspended in the formulation and pass easily through spray nozzles. Microencapsulations are effective on porous surfaces, but might leave a residue. The microcaps extend the residual activity of the insecticide.
In flowables, the solid is mixed with a liquid and inert ingredients to form a suspension. When applied, the insecticide remains on the surface of materials - in most cases without leaving a residue. Catalyst® Insecticide, a flowable available from Zoëcon, has proven efficacy and quick knockdown of pests through direct contact.
Catalyst can be used for both initial clean-out and maintenance treatments in commercial, non-residential buildings. Available in a concentrated form and mixed with water for application, the product has a stable formulation for longer residual. Catalyst has no known cockroach repellency or resistance.
Effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) involves more than product-based solutions - as any of these helpful articles will tell you.
