Overview
Edifenphos is an organophosphate fungicide developed specifically for agricultural use, particularly in rice cultivation. It belongs to the phosphorothioate chemical class and has been commercially available since the 1960s under various trade names, most notably Hinosan. The compound is registered for use in several Asian countries where rice blast disease poses significant threats to crop yields. Its development represented an important advancement in crop protection, offering both systemic and contact action against fungal pathogens.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Edifenphos appears as a light yellow to brown viscous liquid at room temperature with a characteristic organophosphate odor. It is chemically stable under normal storage conditions but decomposes when heated, producing toxic fumes including phosphorus oxides and sulfur oxides. The substance demonstrates moderate persistence in the environment, with a half-life in soil ranging from 10 to 30 days depending on conditions. Its solubility profile makes it suitable for formulation as emulsifiable concentrates, which are commonly applied as foliar sprays in agricultural settings.
Main Applications
The primary application of edifenphos is in the control of Magnaporthe grisea, the fungus responsible for rice blast disease. It is typically applied at rates of 500-750 g active ingredient per hectare during critical growth stages when rice plants are most susceptible to infection. In addition to rice blast, edifenphos shows efficacy against several other fungal pathogens affecting rice, including sheath blight and brown spot. Some formulations combine edifenphos with other fungicides to broaden the spectrum of control and prevent resistance development in target organisms.
Safety and Storage
As an organophosphate compound, edifenphos requires careful handling to prevent exposure. The substance is classified as toxic (WHO Class II) and carries risk phrases for acute toxicity, skin irritation, and environmental hazard. Proper personal protective equipment including gloves, goggles, and respirators should be used during handling. Storage facilities should maintain temperatures below 30°C and provide adequate ventilation. Containers must be kept tightly closed and separated from food and feed. Spill containment measures should be in place, with absorbent materials available for immediate cleanup of any leaks or spills.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring edifenphos for commercial agricultural use, buyers should verify suppliers' credentials and product certifications. Key documents to request include the Certificate of Analysis, Material Safety Data Sheet, and product registration documents for the target market. Quality specifications should confirm purity (typically 95% or higher), absence of significant impurities, and formulation stability. For large-volume purchases, consider requesting batch samples for preliminary testing before finalizing orders. Logistics planning should account for the product's hazardous classification during transportation.