New Organosilicon- and Lecithin-Based Adjuvant: Effect of Lecithin HLB on Adjuvant Properties

A series of novel organosilicon- and lecithin-based adjuvants that contain different sources and types of lecithin was prepared. We investigated how lecithins influence the properties of the organosilicon surfactant such as spreading and dynamic surface tension. We also investigated how variations in the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance (HLB) of the lecithin component affected the stability of the adjuvant spray solution, as well as the impact on spray drift reduction, droplet adhesion, and herbicide uptake. The lecithins antagonized the spreading and increased the surface tension of the organosilicon surfactant, and this response was not altered by variations in the HLB of the lecithin component. On the other hand, 2,4-D dimethylamine uptake and spray drift reduction with glyphosate-isopropylamine was affected by the HLB of the lecithin source. Overall, these results indicate that this new adjuvant works as a penetrant that can enhance droplet adhesion, drift control, and herbicide uptake.