Chemical Name: O,O-Dimethyl O-(3-methyl-4-nitrophenyl) phosphorothioate
Common Name: Fenitrothion
Trade Name: Sumithion
CAS Number: 122-14-5
Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₂NO₅PS
Molecular Weight: 277.24 g/mol
Formulation Type: Technical Concentrate (TC)
Purity: ≥95.0% (by Gas Chromatography)
Fenitrothion 95% TC is a technical-grade organophosphorus insecticide used in agricultural, public health, and veterinary applications. It exhibits strong contact and stomach action against a broad spectrum of insect pests. The compound functions as a cholinesterase inhibitor, leading to disruption of the insect nervous system and eventual death. It is particularly valued for its efficacy against pests in stored grain, as well as foliage pests on rice, vegetables, and fruit crops.
Fenitrothion is moderately persistent and shows a relatively short pre-harvest interval (PHI), making it suitable for applications close to harvest under certain regulated conditions.
Appearance: Clear to yellow-brown liquid
Odor: Mild phenolic or medicinal odor
Boiling Point: Decomposes before boiling
Melting Point: ~0°C
Flash Point: >100°C (closed cup)
Density (20°C): 1.31–1.34 g/cm³
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water (~14 mg/L at 20°C); soluble in most organic solvents like acetone, methanol, and xylene
Vapor Pressure: 2.7 × 10⁻⁵ mmHg (25°C)
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to strong alkalis and acids
Active Ingredient (Fenitrothion): ≥95.0%
Water Content: ≤0.5%
Acidity (as H₂SO₄): ≤0.3%
Insoluble in Acetone: ≤0.5%
Appearance: Clear liquid free from suspended matter
Fenitrothion 95% TC is used to formulate:
Emulsifiable Concentrates (EC)
Wettable Powders (WP)
Dusts and Granules (DP, GR)
ULV (Ultra-Low Volume) aerosols
Target Pests:
Rice pests: stem borers, leafhoppers, planthoppers
Stored product pests: beetles, weevils, moths
Public health: mosquitoes, flies, cockroaches
Forestry: pine caterpillars, beetles
Major Use Areas:
Agriculture: rice, maize, vegetables, fruits
Grain storage facilities
Public health and vector control
Veterinary and animal housing pest management
Fenitrothion acts as a cholinesterase inhibitor, disrupting neurotransmission in insects by blocking the breakdown of acetylcholine. This results in nervous system overstimulation, muscle spasms, paralysis, and eventual death. It provides both contact and ingestion activity, offering rapid knockdown and effective residual control.
Oral LD₅₀ (rat): ~250–450 mg/kg (moderately toxic)
Dermal LD₅₀ (rat): >2000 mg/kg
Inhalation LC₅₀ (rat, 4h): ~2.5 mg/L
Irritation: Mildly irritating to skin and eyes
Sensitization: Non-sensitizing
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic by IARC or EPA
Ecotoxicology:
Highly toxic to bees and aquatic invertebrates
Moderate toxicity to birds and mammals
Use caution near water bodies and during pollination periods
Packaging: 25 kg fiber drums, 200 kg steel drums, or customized options
Storage: Store in original containers in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from foodstuffs and animal feed
Shelf Life: At least 2 years under recommended conditions
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, goggles, and protective clothing. Avoid inhalation, ingestion, and skin contact. Follow local regulations for handling, transport, and disposal. Refer to the SDS for detailed safety guidelines.
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