The EC (Emulsifiable Concentrate) formulation is a liquid pesticide formulation in which the active ingredient is dissolved in a solvent together with emulsifiers.
ECs remain one of the most widely used formulation types for crop protection products worldwide. When diluted with water in a spray tank, an EC forms a fine emulsion, with droplet sizes typically ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 µm. In some cases, larger double‑emulsion droplets may also form, exceeding 50 µm in size. The spontaneous formation of this emulsion is achieved by selecting one or more surfactants capable of emulsifying the solvent system (including the active ingredient) into water. Achieving the proper balance between water‑soluble and oil‑soluble surfactants at the water/solvent interface is essential for creating a physically stable emulsion system.
During spraying, the diluted emulsion ensures uniform and precise distribution of the active ingredient on the crop surface—an essential factor for effective pest control.