Product Specification: Prohexadione Calcium (P-CA) 95% TC (Technical Concentrate)

Product Name: Prohexadione Calcium
Common Abbreviation: P-CA
Chemical Name: Calcium 3-oxido-5-oxo-4-propionylcyclohex-3-enecarboxylate
CAS Number: 127277-53-6
Molecular Formula: C₁₀H₉CaO₅⁺
Molecular Weight: 252.25 g/mol
Formulation Type: Technical Concentrate (TC)
Purity: ≥95.0% active ingredient by weight

Description

Prohexadione Calcium (P-CA) is a highly effective plant growth regulator (PGR) that inhibits gibberellin biosynthesis in plants, leading to reduced vegetative growth and improved crop management. It is used in a variety of fruit crops (e.g., apples, pears), cereals, and turf to control excessive vegetative development, improve light penetration, reduce pruning frequency, and increase yield quality.

The technical concentrate (TC) with 95% purity is the raw material used to manufacture various PGR formulations such as soluble powders and suspension concentrates.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: Off-white to light brown crystalline powder

• Odor: Odorless or mild

• Melting Point: Decomposes above 250°C

• Solubility:

  • Slightly soluble in water (0.5–2 g/L)

  • Practically insoluble in most organic solvents

• Stability: Stable under normal storage conditions; sensitive to acidic or highly alkaline conditions

• pH (1% solution): 6.0–8.0

• Bulk Density: ~0.5–0.7 g/cm³

Specification Parameters

Mode of Action

Prohexadione Calcium functions by inhibiting 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase enzymes involved in gibberellin biosynthesis. This results in reduced elongation of internodes, thereby limiting plant height and excessive shoot growth.

Unlike other growth regulators, P-CA has minimal phytotoxic effects, a short environmental half-life, and rapid plant uptake, making it ideal for precision growth control.

Applications

• Target Use: Growth suppression, internode shortening, shoot control, fruit drop prevention

• Crops: Apples, pears, rice, peanuts, grapes, turfgrass, cereals

• Application Rate:

  • Apples & pears: 100–200 g/ha

  • Rice & cereals: 25–50 g/ha

  • Turf & ornamentals: Based on formulation, typically 0.1–0.3% spray solution

• Application Timing: Early to mid-growth stage, depending on crop type and growth objectives

• Benefits:

  • Reduces shoot regrowth

  • Enhances flowering and fruit quality

  • Improves resistance to lodging

  • Decreases labor and pruning costs

Toxicology & Safety

• Oral LD₅₀ (rat): >2000 mg/kg (low toxicity)

• Dermal LD₅₀ (rat): >2000 mg/kg

• Inhalation LC₅₀ (rat): >5 mg/L

• Skin/Eye Irritation: Non-irritant

• Ecotoxicology: Low toxicity to bees, birds, aquatic life; minimal environmental persistence

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging: 25 kg fiber drums or bags with PE liner

• Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight

• Shelf Life: At least 2 years in original, unopened packaging under recommended storage conditions

Conclusion

Prohexadione Calcium 95% TC is an advanced, highly efficient plant growth regulator offering consistent and targeted control over plant development. Its safety, effectiveness, and compatibility with integrated crop management programs make it a reliable choice for modern agriculture.