Dicquat w.r.k., Desiccant (dicquat 150 g/l)

Mechanism of Action: How Contact Diquat Functions

The core of this formulation is the active ingredient diquat at a concentration of 150 g/L. As a contact herbicide, it does not translocate through the plant's vascular system; instead, it acts locally at the site of contact. Upon touching the leaf surface, it induces immediate disruption of cellular membranes. During photosynthesis, free radicals are released, effectively 'scorching' the chlorophyll. For an agronomist, this means maximum efficiency in growth termination: visible wilting occurs within hours, and the crop is ready for harvest in just 5 to 7 days.

Technological Formulation Advantages

The product is supplied as a water-soluble concentrate (WSC). This is a critical factor for working solution stability: diquat molecules in this form penetrate plant tissues rapidly, even in the presence of a light waxy cuticle. Being a non-selective desiccant, it also inhibits pathogen development—such as gray mold on sunflowers or late blight on potatoes—while simultaneously drying out the vegetative mass.

Field Application Practice

This formulation from Sunrise Chemicals Co. Ltd. (Shanghai) is optimized for two primary objectives: pre-harvest drying and weed control. Its high-speed action reduces dependency on weather conditions compared to systemic herbicides, as diquat is rapidly absorbed by plant tissues and becomes rain-fast within 30–60 minutes of application.

• Rapeseed and Sunflower: Ensures uniform seed maturation and reduces harvesting losses.
• Potatoes: Dessicates the haulm, simplifying mechanical harvesting and preventing tuber infection.
• Cereals and Peas: Reduces grain moisture content, allowing for earlier harvest scheduling.

It is important to note that the product carries a Hazard Class 3 rating, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols for crop protection chemicals. Precise application is essential to ensure maximum coverage of the leaf surface, as the contact nature of diquat does not allow for skips during spraying.