Monocarbamide dihydrogen sulphate
Description
Mode of action
Monocarbamide dihydrogensulfate acts as a highly reactive contact agent, primarily functioning by rapidly altering the pH balance on the plant tissue surface.
The compound destroys the waxy cuticle and cellular membranes of the plant foliage, leading to immediate moisture loss and desiccation of the green parts.
Unlike systemic herbicides that translocate through the vascular system, this substance provides a quick "burn-down" effect that stops plant growth within hours.
The urea component in the complex provides a nitrogen source, while the sulfuric acid component ensures rapid penetration and immediate tissue destruction.
This dual-action approach makes it an essential tool for farmers requiring immediate intervention against weed growth or preparation of crops for mechanical harvesting.
What it targets
This group of substances is primarily used for the control of a wide variety of annual broad-leaved weeds and some grass weeds in their early growth stages.
It is widely employed as a desiccant for grain and oilseed crops, facilitating even ripening and enabling earlier harvest operations under challenging weather conditions.
Effective against unwanted vegetation in fallow lands and non-crop areas, preventing the spread of competitive plants before the main sowing season.
Utilized in vineyard and orchard management for contact-based weed control in row middles without the risk of systemic uptake by the main crop.
Useful for managing vegetation in irrigation channels and fence lines, where rapid removal of biomass is required for maintenance purposes.
Rates and timing
Typical application rates range from 15 to 40 liters per hectare, depending on the target plant density and the desired level of desiccation.
For weed control, the most effective results are observed when treatments are applied to young plants with 2-4 true leaves in active growth.
When used as a pre-harvest desiccant, it should be applied 7 to 14 days before the expected harvest date to ensure moisture levels in the grain are optimal.
To ensure high coverage, the volume of spray solution should be kept between 200 and 400 liters per hectare, depending on the spray equipment used.
Application should ideally occur when air temperatures are moderate, avoiding the heat of the day to ensure the solution does not evaporate too quickly.
Restrictions
The primary limitation is the high corrosivity of the product; only spray equipment manufactured with corrosion-resistant materials should be utilized.
Strict personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols must be followed, as the compound is an irritant to skin and eyes upon direct contact.
Drift prevention is critical; the herbicide is non-selective and will damage any non-target plants it contacts during the application process.
Heavy rainfall shortly after application can significantly reduce effectiveness, requiring careful consideration of weather forecasts prior to field operations.
Storage must be in dedicated acid-resistant containers, keeping the product away from reactive metals and ensuring proper ventilation in the storage facility.
Status in the European Union
Not approved in the EU
- Category (EU)
- PG - Plant growth regulator
EU status is for reference only and does not replace national registration in your country.