Virginia Commercial Pesticide Applicators CORE Exam

What formulation is described as being a concentrate that may nearly reach 100% active ingredient?

1. Aerosol

2. Ultra-low volume (ULV)

3. Liquid concentrate

4. Emulsion concentrate

The correct answer is: Ultra-low volume (ULV)

The correct choice in this context is characterized as ultra-low volume (ULV) formulations. These types of formulations are designed to deliver a high concentration of active ingredient while using minimal amounts of liquid. Typically, ULV products are formulated to contain nearly 100% active ingredients, which allows for effective pest control with minimal dilution. This approach is particularly beneficial in applications where large volumes of liquid products would not be practical or safe, such as in vector control for mosquito populations or in agricultural settings where targeted delivery to specific areas is necessary. In contrast, aerosol formulations, while convenient for certain applications, usually deliver a lower concentration of active ingredient due to the propellant and dispersal method. Liquid concentrates tend to be diluted with water before use, meaning they contain a lower percentage of active ingredient when applied. Emulsion concentrates also require dilution for application, which further reduces the concentration of the active ingredient in the final mixture. Therefore, ULV formulations stand out for their ability to provide a concentrated dose of active ingredient effectively.