Overview
Procymidone, commonly known by its trade name Sumilex, is a systemic fungicide belonging to the dicarboximide class. It was first introduced in the 1970s and has since become a key tool in agricultural pest management. The compound is particularly effective against Botrytis cinerea (gray mold) and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, which are major threats to crops like grapes, strawberries, and vegetables. As a dicarboximide fungicide, procymidone works by inhibiting spore germination and mycelial growth of target fungi. Its systemic action allows it to be absorbed by plant tissues, providing both protective and curative effects. The chemical has been widely adopted in many countries, though its use is regulated due to environmental and health considerations.
Physical and Chemical Properties
Procymidone appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 284.14 g/mol. It has a melting point range of 166-167°C and a density of 1.42 g/cm³. The compound is slightly soluble in water (8.4 mg/L at 20°C) but shows good solubility in many organic solvents including acetone (500 g/L), methanol (66 g/L), and xylene (33 g/L). The chemical is stable under normal storage conditions but may decompose when exposed to strong acids or bases. Its vapor pressure is relatively low (1.2 × 10-5 Pa at 20°C), indicating low volatility. These properties influence its formulation and application methods in agricultural settings, typically being available as wettable powders or suspension concentrates.
Main Applications
Procymidone is primarily used in agriculture to control various fungal pathogens. Its main targets include Botrytis species (causing gray mold) in grapes, strawberries, and vegetables; Sclerotinia species in oilseed rape and vegetables; and Monilinia species in stone fruits. The fungicide is applied as a foliar spray, with application timing critical for effectiveness - typically at early flowering and fruit development stages. In addition to conventional agriculture, procymidone finds use in greenhouse production and post-harvest treatments. Some formulations are approved for use on ornamentals. The compound is often used in rotation or mixture with other fungicides to prevent resistance development. Application rates vary by crop and disease pressure, typically ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 kg active ingredient per hectare.
Safety and Storage
Procymidone is classified as moderately hazardous (WHO Class II) and requires careful handling. It is toxic to aquatic organisms and may cause long-term adverse effects in aquatic environments. Personal protective equipment including gloves, goggles, and respirators should be used during handling and application. For storage, the chemical should be kept in its original container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from food and feed. Temperature should not exceed 30°C, and the material should be protected from moisture. Spills should be contained with inert material and disposed of according to local regulations. Many countries have established pre-harvest intervals (PHIs) ranging from 7 to 21 days depending on the crop.
B2B Procurement Guide
When procuring procymidone for commercial use, buyers should first verify the legal status of the product in their target market, as regulations vary significantly by country. Key specifications to check include purity (typically 95-98% technical grade), formulation type, and batch analysis certificates. Reputable suppliers should provide material safety data sheets (MSDS) and product registration documents. Price considerations include not just the base cost but also formulation premiums, packaging options, and minimum order quantities. Bulk purchases (tonnage quantities) typically offer better unit pricing. Logistics planning is crucial as many regions require special permits for pesticide transportation. Establish clear quality control protocols, including third-party testing for new suppliers, and consider long-term supply agreements to mitigate price volatility.
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