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Question

What's the difference between Amine and Ester?

The differencedefinition between Amine and LoV Ester

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Answer

Expert response from Mithila Jugulam

Associate Professor, Kansas State University

Thursday, 04/08/2016 13:44

Amine and Ester: These are two different types of formulations of herbicides. The herbicides that are commonly used for weed control in lawns such as, 2,4-D, dicamba, triclopyr, or MCPA, are formulated in two ways; amines or esters.

 

Ester’s formulations have higher vapor pressures than amines. The higher the vapor pressure, the greater the volatility. Amine formulations are generally less volatile than esters. Amine formulations are typically used in landscape settings and scenarios when drift is a primary concern.

 

Knowing the difference between the two types of formulations will help when and how to use them to maximize the weed control. Using the right formulation can also prevent damage to non-target plants within the landscape as well. Drift of 2,4-D occurs on a regular basis. In most cases, drift is a result of 2, 4-D’s volatility (i.e. when ester formulations are used), when it vaporizes and moves to non-target areas. However, herbicide drift can also occur with several other commonly used herbicides.