Advanced atomization model for non-newtonian pesticide spray formulations
Lincoln Agritech is advancing its flat fan spray atomization model to predict droplet distribution for non-Newtonian agrochemical fluids. This supports registration of new spray formulations by reducing wind tunnel testing, improving spray performance predictability, and minimizing driftable fine droplet generation in crop protection applications.
Overview
Lincoln Agritech is extending its predictive atomization model for flat fan sprays to cover non-Newtonian pesticide formulations, a significant gap in current spray modeling capability. Many modern agrochemical spray liquids behave as non-Newtonian fluids, particularly emulsions with high elongational viscosity, and existing Newtonian models cannot accurately predict their droplet spectra or spray sheet patterns. By advancing the model to handle these complex fluids, the team aims to reduce reliance on costly wind tunnel experiments during the registration of new crop protection formulations, enabling faster and more predictable development cycles for agrochemical companies.
Technical specifications
- Current model capability: Predicts droplet distribution and spray sheet patterns for simple Newtonian fluids, validated against water spray data from Teejet Technologies.
- Target extension: Adaptation of the model to non-Newtonian formulations, including emulsions where the physical breakup process differs (spray sheet perforates into holes rather than following conventional breakup).
- Validation methodology: High-speed camera visualization of breakup mechanisms, laser droplet analyzer quantification of drop size, and fluid rheology measurements.
- Model refinement: Theoretical revision based on observed breakup processes, with calibration of model constants using drop size data.
- Drift reduction strategy: Derivation of approaches to minimize the generation of driftable fine drops during atomization.
- Collaborative infrastructure: Wind tunnel testing conducted in partnership with Dr. Khaled Sallam at Oklahoma State University.
Technology readiness level
The existing Newtonian atomization model has been validated with experimental data and supported by theoretical reasoning and calculations. The proposed project focuses on extending this validated foundation to non-Newtonian fluids through systematic data acquisition, breakup mechanism visualization, rheology characterization, and model recalibration. The work represents an early-to-mid stage development effort aimed at producing a calibrated predictive tool that can support agrochemical registration processes and spray performance optimization.
About Lincoln Agritech Ltd. - (Abbas Jafari)
Lincoln Agritech is a multidisciplinary research and development company, operating as a 100% subsidiary of Lincoln University, that delivers science and engineering technologies for primary industries and the environmental sector [3, 4]. Within this organization, Abdolabbas (Abbas) Jafari serves as a Precision Agriculture Scientist and Research Scientist [1, 2, 3]. His work focuses on integrating computer vision, machine learning, data modelling, and Raman spectroscopy to optimize farming practices, enhance crop production, and advance sustainable agriculture [1, 5]. By applying these advanced scientific tools, the team aims to solve complex challenges related to water, land-use, and bio-resources [1, 4].
These research efforts provide practical benefits to farmers, consultants, and veterinarians by improving agricultural efficiency and environmental sustainability [2, 6]. For example, Jafari has been involved in investigating the application of augmented reality in dairy farming to assess potential industry benefits [6]. By leading projects that bridge the gap between engineering and real-world agricultural problems, the team supports the development of innovative, evidence-based solutions that help crops thrive while reducing the environmental footprint of primary industry operations [1, 2, 6].
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