A modified vegetable oil, produced through a process called methylation, serves as an agricultural adjuvant. This process alters the oil’s chemical structure, enhancing its performance as a surfactant and improving its ability to facilitate the penetration of herbicides and pesticides into plant tissues. For example, it can be added to a glyphosate herbicide spray to increase the herbicide’s effectiveness in controlling weeds.
The utilization of methylated oils offers several advantages. It can improve the efficacy of agricultural chemicals, leading to better weed and pest control, potentially reducing the amount of active ingredient needed. This can contribute to cost savings and environmental benefits by minimizing the overall chemical load introduced into the environment. Its development represents a progression in adjuvant technology aimed at optimizing agricultural practices.