Role of aliphatic alcohol polyoxyethylene ether phosphate in 25 wt% tebuconazole suspension concentrate: Dispersion and wetting

Abstract Aliphatic alcohol polyoxyethylene ether phosphate potassium salt (AEnP-K) and polycarboxylic acid sodium salt (SD-816) served as efficient dispersants to prepare 25 wt% tebuconazole suspension concentrate (SC). Comparison of the Zeta potential, particle size, viscosity and suspension ratios of samples using different combinations of surfactants confirms that the suspension stability of solid particles is the result of electrostatic repulsion, spatial resistance and hydration. The thermal stability and thixotropic stability of SC were investigated to ensure the SCs can withstand complex daily environments. Fortunately, the SCs with AEnP-K have good performance in extreme environments. Furthermore, the addition of AEP-K brings excellent wetting and atomization properties to the SC, which can improve the efficiency of pesticide utilization. This manuscript proposes that small-molecule surfactants used in combination with polymeric surfactants have good dispersant and application effects, and recommends the use of inexpensive AEnP-K as a partial replacement for polymeric surfactants in the research of dispersants for SCs systems in the future.