BASF opens Research Center for Agrochemical Applications

BASF has opened its new Global Agrochemical Applications Research Center in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA. The installation will help optimize guidelines relating to targeted applications of BASF crop protection solutions used around the world. Research conducted at the Center will also address appropriate management in refuge areas, as well as specific tank mix combinations.

"The Research Center will help us bring new technologies to farmers that reduce drift, use rates and perform necessary regulatory testing," said Paul Rea, senior vice president, North America, Agriculture Solutions Division at BASF. "Additionally, the Center's research will provide our technical teams with important guidance to help train our customers on best agricultural application and control practices."

The Research Center is equipped with a wind tunnel to test the drift potential of sprays, measuring the droplet size distribution in each crop protection product. The analyzed solutions are sprayed in a controlled air flow using the same nozzles used by farmers. Droplet size distribution is important as it is used to predict the size of the protective area required for acceptable application of the product in commercial contexts. Having knowledge of application restrictions will reduce the risk of off-target application and subsequent symptoms or injury to crops located in windy areas.

"The Applications Research Center allows us to identify the most promising technology, at an early stage, under very realistic application conditions, so that we can better adapt future developments," said Jürgen Huff, Senior Vice President Protection Research and Development of Crops of BASF's Agricultural Solutions Division. "We will continue to emphasize and support best control practices for our farmers and for formulation development in a commercial context."