ABSTRACT
26The use of oils with pesticides in Western Europe is assessed and quantified both with respect to current use and possible future use. The economics are discussed as well as the relative advantages which may be obtained by the addition of oils to pesticide formulations. Oils may be used to reduce the effects of evaporation of sprays, increase penetration of active materials into plant and insect tissue, improve rain-fastness, and in many cases increase biological activity. The use of oils can facilitate reduction in volume of spray applied while maintaining biological activity due to increased surface mobility. Problems with marketing vegetable oils may occur because of their storage properties and also inconsistencies between oils from different sources of supply. Registration requirements for the use of oils with pesticides as diluents, adjuvants, and carriers are costly and extensive in some European countries. The market for oils within Europe appears to be increasing slowly at present, largely due to the relatively slow uptake of spraying techniques capable of fully utilizing the potentials offered and uncertainties about future legislation.
