Trifluralin

Trifluralin is a widely used herbicide that belongs to the dinitroaniline chemical family. It is primarily used to control weed growth in various crops, including cotton, soybeans, and sunflowers. Trifluralin is a selective, pre-emergence herbicide, meaning it is applied to the soil before the weeds emerge.

Chemical Properties

Trifluralin is a yellow-orange crystalline solid with a slight, aromatic odor. It is not soluble in water and has a low volatility. The chemical formula for trifluralin is C13H16F3N3O4.

Mode of Action

Trifluralin works by inhibiting the growth of weed seedlings by interfering with cell division in the newly forming root tips. This prevents the weeds from developing a root system, thus killing them before they can emerge from the soil and compete with the crop.

Health Effects

Exposure to trifluralin can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Long-term exposure can lead to more serious health effects, including damage to the liver and kidneys. Trifluralin is classified as a possible human carcinogen by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Environmental Impact

Trifluralin is moderately persistent in the environment and can leach into groundwater. It is highly toxic to aquatic organisms and can have negative impacts on non-target species.

Regulation

In the United States, trifluralin is regulated by the EPA under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). It is classified as a Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP), meaning it can only be used by certified applicators.