Field Device for Determining Atomization Properties of Agrochemical Tank Mixes

Spray drift from pesticide applications is a significant issue for U.S. agriculture. Spray drift, and efficacy of agrochemicals, are strongly affected by the droplet size spectra and the physical properties of the spray. Applicators have general guidance on nozzle selection but most reference tables are for water or water+surfactant mixture. Pesticide labels often specify the droplet size with which the product should be applied. The spray mix fluid properties significantly change the droplet size spectra. Applicators need a simple tool in the filed so that they can select or verify the optimal choice of nozzles and other conditions for each unique tank mix they apply.