Diatomaceous earths as alternatives to chemical insecticides in stored grain

Abstract

Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a natural inert dust used to control insect pests in stored grain as an alternative to synthetic residual insecticides. Various DE formulations are now registered as a grain protectant or for structural treatment in many different countries throughout the world. The mode of action of DE is through the absorption of cuticular waxes in the insect cuticle, and insect death occurs from desiccation. The main advantages of using DE are its low mammalian toxicity and its stability. The main limitations to widespread commercial use of DE are reduction of the bulk density and flowability of grain, irritant hazards during application and reduction in efficacy at high moisture contents. This paper is an updated review of published results of researches related to the use of DEs and discusses their potential use in large‐scale, commercial storage and in small scale applications.

On the diatomite-based nanostructure-preserving material synthesis for energy applications

“…2 Conventionally, DE nds applications as lter aids, functional additives, absorbents, natural insecticide, and materials for soil improvement. [15][16][17][18][19] Recently, diatomite has attracted signicant attention in the scientic community. DE provides a unique way to mimic nature by using it as both template and precursor for materials with desirable nanostructures.…”

Diatomaceous earths: Natural insecticides

“…There are several review papers published in international journals describing different aspects of DEs use in insect control (Ebeling, 1971;Aleksander et al, 1944aAleksander et al, , 1994bAleksander et al, , 1994cKorunic, 1994, Golob, 19971998;Subramanyam and Roesli, 2000;Nikpay, 2006). Over the years, the use of DE has been limited because the required dose rates of 1000 to 3500 ppm (parts per million) for most DE products was found to reduce significantly the grain bulk density and flowability, and left visible dust residues (Subramanyam et al, 1994;Golob, 1997).…”

Insecticidal and repellency effects of a Turkish diatomaceous earth formulation (Detech) on adults of three important pests of stored grain

“…However, the use of diatomaceous earth was limited because the required dose rates of 1.0 to 3.5 g per kg of grain (1,000 to 3,500 ppm) for most DE products significantly reduced the grain bulk density and flowability, and left visible dust residues, which are not widely accepted by quality standards in many countries (Subramanyam et al, 1994;Golob, 1997). Considerable research has been conducted to address these problems and develop new DE formulations with enhanced performance and reduced DE dosage that have no adverse effect on grain quality (Arnaud, 2005;Nikpay, 2006;Athanassiou & Korunic, 2007;Korunic, 2013).…”