Emulsifiable Concentrates 

One of the most powerful and potent types of pest control formulations is emulsifiable concentrates, also known by their initials EC on pesticide labels. This is a very popular formulation often used by professionals when hired to conduct treatments because these chemicals are known to be very effective and versatile.

They are also easy to use. All you have to do is mix a small amount of concentrate with water, and, in an instant, you have a large arsenal of products to apply in and around your home to treat pests.

At Solutions Pest & Lawn, we carry several high-quality emulsifiable concentrates. On this page, we will briefly explain them, how they work, and their numerous benefits.

What is an Emulsifiable Concentrate?

An emulsifiable concentrate (EC) is a liquid formulation that contains technical material, one or more organic water-immiscible solvents, and an emulsifier (such as a surfactant).

Emulsifiable concentrate formulations are still one of the most common formulation types for pest control worldwide. When emulsifiable concentrate formulations are diluted with water in a spray tank, they form a spontaneous emulsion, with emulsion droplets in the size range of 0.1 to 1.0 micrometers. When diluted in water, it forms a milky or opaque emulsion for application.

When sprayed, the diluted emulsion gives a uniform and precise application of active ingredients on the target, essential for effective pest control.

Conditions For Using ECs

Emulsifiable concentrates are used to treat pests in agricultural, ornamental, turf, forestry, structural (residential and commercial) food processing, livestock, and public health settings.

They are also adaptable to many types of application equipment--from small, portable sprayers to hydraulic sprayers, low-volume ground sprayers, mist blowers, and low-volume aircraft sprayers.

We recommend using them for general pest control for insects found around your household. Emulsifiable concentrates work well for this because they make creating an even insecticide barrier around your home easier.

Emulsifiable concentrates are not necessarily limited to insecticides. They are also used in formulations for insect growth regulators such as Gentrol. Some more popular herbicides, such as RoundUp and others, are emulsifiable concentrates.

Benefits of Using ECs

Emulsifiable concentrate formulations are simple to manufacture, transport, and store. They are not abrasive and will not clog screens or nozzles.

Unlike wettable powders, emulsifiable concentrates leave no visible residue on treated surfaces and require little agitation because they will not settle out or separate when equipment is used.

Emulsifiable concentrates are easy to use--mix a small amount of the concentrate with water according to the label instructions, and you’re set. ECs usually dry quickly and clear and have a great residual effect, lasting between 28 to 90 days.

Because of their high concentrations of active ingredients, emulsifiable concentrate products are typically cheaper to use for treatments that require a large amount of spraying.

Drawbacks of Using ECs

Emulsifiable concentrations are high concentrations of solvents, and it makes it easy to overdose or underdose through mixing or calibration errors. There is also more risk of damaging desirable plants (phytotoxicity).

Emulsifiable concentrate solvents may cause rubber or plastic hoses, gaskets, and pump parts to deteriorate. ECs are also flammable and should be stored in a cool, dry area away from open flames.

ECs do not perform well on porous surfaces like brick and concrete and are typically less effective against crawling pests. They are typically absorbed into the material instead of staying on the surface, meaning pests will not be exposed to the correct dosage of the active ingredient.

The oil in the Emulsifiable concentrates product can stain some surfaces, such as vinyl siding or other plastic-based materials. 

Our Recommendations

We have many different EC pest control and lawn care products in stock. What you select will depend on your pest problem, the level of infestation, and how quickly you'd like to eliminate the issue. Below, we have a list of some of our top recommended products.

Flex 10-10—Flex 10-10 is a multi-use insecticide containing permethrin and PBO. When applied with our bed bug kit, this product will kill and control bed bugs and eliminate any infestation. Flex 10-10 can be applied inside and outside with compressed air sprayers, ULV machines, or automatic mosquito misting machines. It is the best chemical for mosquito misting systems and comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Sylo Insecticide—Sylo Insecticide provides excellent control of subterranean and dry wood termites. It can be applied to both soil and wood to treat termites. Sylo Insecticide is also a great exterior product for other pests, such as ants, bees, cockroaches, chinch bugs, mole crickets, and much more.

Tools Needed

To apply an emulsifiable concentrate, you must dilute the product according to its label directions in an appropriate sprayer. For a typical household application, a hand pump sprayer works well. Before mixing and spraying EC products, it is best to wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves.

User Guide

Emulsifiable concentrates are quite simple, though it is best to check the label for the proper application. Most EC bottles come with two caps and a special straw patented technology to make them easy to measure.

Step 1: Use The Proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) For Your Application

Wear chemical-resistant gloves and long sleeves when handling and mixing EC products.

Step 2: Mix the EC into an appropriate sprayer.

Undo the cap and remove the seal. Squeeze the correct amount of product into the measuring chamber according to the labeled directions. Fill the sprayer halfway with water, pour the concentrate into the equipment, and dilute it with water according to the label instructions. Finish filling with water and then agitate.

Step 3: Apply the EC solution to the target area.

Apply liquid EC around your home or yard to create a barrier. Work your way around the perimeter. Be careful when applying ECs to vegetation, as the oil-based products can cause foliar burn in hot temperatures.

Key Takeaways

• The emulsifiable concentrate is a concentrated liquid formulation of pesticide that needs to be diluted with water to create a spray solution.
• Emulsifiable concentrates are popular for pest control because they dry clear and often have a long residual effect.
• ECs can be easily absorbed through the skin, so it is important to wear gloves and long-sleeve clothing when spraying.