Soluble powders are dry formulations of pesticides that dissolve in water. Few pesticides are water soluble. They may also be formulated as liquids. Dusts are pesticides formulated on particles designed for dry application. Dust formulations have lost popularity because of equipment difficulties, excessive drift, hazards to honeybees, and applicator inhalation hazard.
Granules are pesticides formulated on large particles of various materials.
They are generally less hazardous than liquids and dusts, and have few drift problems. Microencapsulated pesticides are impregnated into tiny, slow release plastic beads and mixed into a liquid. This formulation reduces dermal toxicity and increase residual efficacy. Adjuvants Adjuvants are added ingredients that increase the effectiveness of the active ingredient and make application easier. Surfactants are most commonly used to apply pesticides on plants that have waxy or hairy leaves.