All partnering requests
Reducing UV-induced degradation of herbicides
  • Background
  • What we're looking for
  • What we can offer you
  • Who we are
  • Q&A
Have questions about this request?
Get them answered by the team at UPL.
Background

Photodegradation of herbicides due to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a major challenge in maintaining product efficacy, especially in regions with high solar exposure. This degradation can significantly reduce the herbicide’s persistence on soil or leaf surfaces, compromising weed control and agronomic performance. To offset these losses, higher application rates are sometimes used, but this is not a sustainable solution. The degree of UV degradation depends on variable environmental and application conditions, making it difficult to determine appropriate compensation levels. This uncertainty results in inefficiency, increased costs, and potential environmental concerns. With climate change intensifying sunlight exposure in many regions, the challenge is likely to worsen. There is a growing need for innovative solutions that can stabilize herbicides under UV stress and extend their field longevity, without compromising safety or environmental compatibility.

What we're looking for

We are seeking technologies that have been tested and show proven effectiveness in reducing or delaying UV-induced degradation of herbicide molecules. The solution may involve formulation strategies or other innovative approaches that are practical, scalable, and feasible for both manufacturing and application.

Solutions of interest include:
  • Encapsulation (micro/nano-carriers, polymer matrices, controlled-release capsules, protective coatings)
  • UV filters (absorbers, stabilizers, and blockers)
  • Surface modifiers
  • Co-formulants (synergists, antioxidants, radical scavengers) improving photostability
Our must-have requirements are:
  • Demonstrates reduction in UV degradation rate (quantitative data is highly encouraged)
  • Validated in laboratory, field, or controlled environments
  • Demonstrates potential compatibility with standard herbicide formulation systems, without compromising selectivity or environmental safety
  • Applicable to liquid or solid formulations, with emphasis on stability and agronomic performance
Our nice-to-have's are:
  • Commercial scalability and manufacturing feasibility
  • Compliance with current agricultural regulatory standards
Acceptable technology readiness levels (TRL):
Levels 4-9
What we can offer you
Eligible partnership models:
Co-developmentSupply/purchaseLicensingFee-for-service
Benefits:
Compensation
Financial support will be determined on a proposal-by-proposal basis. Selected proposals may be eligible for funding starting in 2026, typically ranging from $50,000–$100,000 USD, depending on project scope and stage.
Tools and Technologies
Partners can test their technology in our laboratories and greenhouses according to the established partnership.
Market Access
UPL has market access to the main agricultural countries. Any technology developed can certainly be introduced and commercialized in these countries, according to usage needs and in compliance with current regulations.
Who we are

At UPL we are on a mission to Reimagine Sustainability for farmers and food systems – feeding the world while nurturing the planet. Each and every member of our team is making a difference – to our company’s growth, to our industry’s success, and to our sustainable food future. Our employees and teams reflect the diversity of our customers, the regions in which we operate, and the societies we serve.

 Learn more
Reviewers
Q&A with UPL

The Q&A is now closed.

Sort by:
Q.
Could you name a model herbicide for which the reduction of UV induced degradation should be shown, along with the proposal?
5
Q.
Glad to see you on HALO. Have you looked at Biochar as solution? The key is the composition of the biochar, which is directly related to the feedstock. And of course biochar is good for the environment and soil.
4
Sign up to access the full partnering request.
View the details of this request and connect directly with corporate R&D teams at Fortune 500 companies.
Share partnering request
Complete
Refine recommendations
Is this request relevant to you?
Eligible partners
Academic researchersStartupsSuppliersService providers (CROs/CMOs)Consultants
Seeking partners focused on
Agricultural EngineeringAgricultural ScienceAgronomyAnalytical ChemistryBilayersBiochemistryBiofilmsBiomimeticsBiopharmaceuticsBiophysics
27 more

Halo home
Partner smarter. Move faster.
Get new partnering requests
delivered to your inbox.