What Is Dichlorvos?
Dichlorvos is an organophosphorous compound and a key ingredient in insecticides and pesticides, known by its formula C4H7Cl2O4P. It’s a colorless to amber liquid with a distinct odor. It’s mainly used in household pesticides, quarantine insecticides, and veterinary medicines, known for its rapid action and quick dissipation from treated surfaces.
Classified as a deleterious substance and subject to various regulatory controls, dichlorvos’s effectiveness and safety precautions are significant for users.
Uses of Dichlorvos
As an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, dichlorvos disrupts neurotransmitter functions, leading to its insecticidal properties. Its fast-acting nature and low persistence allow for diverse applications across agriculture, quarantine, veterinary medicine, and household insect control, especially in fumigant forms.
Properties of Dichlorvos
Water-insoluble but soluble in organic solvents, dichlorvos’s use is carefully regulated due to its toxicity and potential to cause serious health effects upon exposure. Safety measures, including the use of protective equipment, are crucial for handling.
Other Information About Dichlorvos
1. Aliases for Dichlorvos
Also known as dimethyl-2,2-dichlorovinyl phosphate or DDVP, dichlorvos is referred to by these names across various platforms and product labels.
2. Precautions for Use of Dichlorvos
Given its classification under fire and water laws, dichlorvos must be handled with care, avoiding heat and ignition sources to prevent decomposition and the release of toxic gases.
3. Disposal Methods
The disposal of dichlorvos, especially considering its toxicity to aquatic life, requires adherence to local regulations and professional waste management services to prevent environmental contamination.