Why are surfactants included in pesticide formulations?

Surfactants are included in pesticide formulations primarily to improve the efficacy and coverage of the pesticide. They work by reducing the surface tension of the liquid, allowing it to spread more easily over leaves and other surfaces where pests are present. This enhanced spreading capability helps ensure that the pesticide covers the target area more thoroughly, leading to better contact with pests and increasing the overall effectiveness of the pesticide.

In addition to improving coverage, surfactants can also help the pesticide penetrate waxy cuticles or other barriers on plants, which is crucial for the active ingredients to be effective against pests. This property is especially important for pesticides that need to enter the plant tissue or need to be absorbed by the pests themselves. By optimizing the application of the pesticide, surfactants directly contribute to better pest management outcomes.