Combination of synthetic pesticides and biopesticides for enhanced pest control
Research initiative investigating the synergistic combination of synthetic pesticides with surfactant-type biopesticides to improve pest and fungal control in plants. The approach addresses limitations of each pesticide type alone by leveraging surfactant properties for improved solubility, emulsion stability, and combined efficacy.
Overview
This research investigates an innovative approach to plant pest management by combining synthetic pesticides with biopesticides that possess surfactant properties. The goal is to determine whether such combinations can produce synergistic pesticidal effects, offering improved pest and fungal control compared to either product used alone. By addressing the individual shortcomings of both synthetic pesticides and biopesticides, the work aims to deliver more effective and potentially more sustainable crop protection solutions.
Technical specifications
The research is guided by two core hypotheses. First, synthetic pesticides can be mixed with biopesticides that possess surfactant properties. Second, under certain conditions, the combination produces synergistic pesticidal effects beyond what either component achieves independently.
The scientific rationale is grounded in pesticide formulation chemistry. Synthetic pesticides are typically solubilized in organic solvents and combined with emulsifiers to achieve miscibility with water. Because of this formulation structure, they are compatible with biopesticides that exhibit surfactant behavior.
Key research activities:
- Preparing pesticide mixtures by combining emulsifiable concentrates, organic solvents, emulsifiers, water, and surfactant-type biopesticides at varying concentrations
- Testing the solubility and emulsion stability of the prepared mixtures to confirm physical compatibility
- Evaluating the combined efficacy of the mixtures against plant fungi to measure synergistic pesticidal activity
This work addresses a notable gap in the literature, as few studies have examined combinations of synthetic and biopesticides, and none have focused specifically on surfactant-type biopesticides.
Technology readiness level
The research is at an early stage, focused on laboratory-scale formulation and efficacy testing. The validation plan proceeds in three steps: mixture preparation, solubility and emulsion stability testing, and combined efficacy testing against plant fungi. Current readiness corresponds to early-stage proof-of-concept research, with potential for advancement through field validation and partner-supported pilot trials.
About Iowa State University
Iowa State University is a large, comprehensive public land‑grant research university based in Ames, known for combining fundamental discovery with translational, industry‑relevant work. Companies collaborate through a research and technology park that co‑locates corporate R&D with faculty labs and startups, creating steady talent pipelines. Pilot‑scale facilities, field test sites, and a statewide extension network support prototyping, validation, and deployment with partners across the region. Research is supported by competitive federal funding, including awards from NSF, USDA, and DOE. A dedicated technology transfer office and affiliated research foundation streamline IP, licensing, and startup formation, with incubator space on site.
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