Ultra-low volume
The term Ultra-Low Volume (ULV) (spraying) is used in the context of pesticide application.
Ultra-low volume application of pesticides has been defined as spraying at a Volume Application Rate (VAR) of les than 5 L/ha for field crops or les than 50 L/ha for tree/bush crops[1]. VARs of 0.25 – 2 l/ha are typical for aerial ULV application to forest or migratory pests.
ULV spraying is a well-established spraying technique[2] and remains the standard method of locust control with pesticides and is also widely used by cotton farmers in central-southern and western Africa. It has also been used in massive aerial spraying campaigns against disease vectors such as the tse-tse fly.
A major benefit of ULV application is high work rate (i.e. hectares can be treated in one day). It is a good option if all (or some) of these conditions apply:
- large area of land to treat
- rapid response required
- little or no water for making pesticide tank mixtures
- logistical problems for supplies
- difficult terrain: poor access to target site
[edit] Equipment
ULV equipment is designed to produce very small droplets, thus ensuring even coverage with low volumes. The equipment is based on aerosol, air-shear (mistblowers, exhaust gas sprayers) or better still, rotary nozzle techniques.[3] An electrostatic charge may be applied to the droplets to aid their distribution and impaction (on earthed targets), but commercial equipment is rare at present.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ Matthews, G.A. (2000) Pesticide Application Methods 3rd Edition. Blackwell Science, Oxford. 432 pages.
- ^ Maas, W. (1971) ULV Application and Formulation Techniques. NV Philips Gloeilampenfabrieken, Eindhoven, NL. 165 pages.
- ^ "Sprayers and other Application Equipment". Dropdata.org. http://www.dropdata.org/DD/sprayers.htm#CDA. Retrieved 2009-04-10.
