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Over the years, thrips have transitioned from a minor nuisance to a major problem, significantly impacting the yield and quality of cotton. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for plant protection have emerged as an effective alternative to traditional pesticide spraying equipment. UAVs offer advantages such as avoiding crop damage and enhancing pesticide deposition on the plants and have become the primary choice for pesticide application in cotton fields. In this study, a 2-year field experiment found that the thrips population in a cotton field in Xinjiang, China, exhibited gradual growth during the early flowering phase, peaking in late July. The thrips population gradually shifted from the lower canopy to the upper canopy as the cotton flowers opened layer by layer. From 09:00 to 11:00 (GMT+8) and 19:00 to 21:00 (GMT+8), thrips mainly flew outside the flowers, while from 17:00 to 19:00 (GMT+8), they mostly inhabited the inner whorls of flowers. The insecticides 10% cyantraniliprole oil dispersion and 10% spinetoram suspension concentrate, sprayed by UAV, had the best control effect on thrips, with 80.51% and 79.22% control effect after 7 days of spraying, respectively. The optimal spraying time for 10% cyantraniliprole oil dispersion was 19:00 (GMT+8), and the control effect on thrips reached 91.16% at 7 days of spraying. During the cotton flowering period, thrips inhabited flowers in the evening and flew outside during the day. The best control effect on thrips was achieved with UAV-sprayed 10% cyantraniliprole oil dispersion at 19:00 (GMT+8). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are important pathogens that seriously harm agricultural production and negatively affect almost every crop in the world. In China, root-knot nematodes are becoming more and more serious with the expansion of protected cultivation and the continuous increase of crop multiple cropping index. Current management practices are not enough to completely control root-knot nematodes. Chemical nematicides are still the most common short-term management strategy for root knot nematodes. In this review, the recent research progresses of the current occurrence of root-knot nematodes and control agents were summarized, including the main problems in the chemical control and the optimization of chemical agents and application technology. The outlook for the development of chemical control methods against root knot nematodes was envisaged: chemical control of root-knot nematodes should be combined with other management strategies to achieve efficient, safe and sustainable integrated management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Shenyang Agricultural University is the property of Journal of Shenyang Agricultural University Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Increasing labor and input costs have driven wine grape (Vitis vinifera) growers’ attention to mechanized equipment to assist in vineyard operations. This study evaluates the financial feasibility of investing in vineyard mechanization, in addition to the released intelligent sprayer in hypothetical wine grape vineyards of varying sizes. Our comparative analysis illustrates how mechanization of vineyard practices affects costs and financial metrics. We conducted a cost–benefit analysis for seven investment scenarios and examined the economic performance of four metrics. Our findings suggest that investing in a mechanized trimmer is most effective for growers exposed to labor shortages and high wages. A retrofitted intelligent sprayer is superior for reducing input use and associated costs.

In view of the problems of traditional spraying technology, such as complex processes, high costs, large dust amounts, and poor air leakage effects, a new composite spraying slurry is proposed in this paper, which takes clay as the main base material and uses water pressure and wind pressure to ensure intrinsic safety. Firstly, the airtightness, bending resistance, and viscosity of the spraying material were measured in the laboratory; secondly, the gas–liquid–solid three-phase flow process involved in the spraying process was simulated by using the CFD-DPM method, adopting the Eulerian two-fluid model for continuous gas–water two-phases and the discrete phase DPM model for dust generation, and the transport, diffusion, and full space-time distribution characteristics of dust generation were studied. The research shows that: (1) the new composite slurry spraying material made of clay as the main material is made by adding a small proportion of cement and engineering fiber to increase the toughness of the material, and finally, determining the mass ratio of the composite material as follows: clay: cement: additive: engineering fiber = 84:14:1.85:0.15. It has good sealing and bending resistance and good adhesion; (2) the water phase distribution under the action of spray determines the distribution of solid-phase dust, and the distribution area of dust is similar to that of the water phase; (3) under the action of spray, the area at the bottom of the roadway is covered by dust flow, and the dust in this area is obviously stratified. The particle size of the dust gradually decreases from bottom to top. The large particle size dust is deposited at the bottom, while the small particle size dust is suspended at a certain height, and the diffusion area gradually increases; (4) the effect of spray angle on dust is mainly manifested in the initial dust flow shape and dust diffusion time. The larger the spray angle, the faster the diffusion; (5) when the water velocity at the nozzle outlet is large, the dust concentration is low in the whole area, but in areas higher than 1.5 m, the PM2.5 concentration also increases with the increase in water flow. The dust suppression effect of larger a water flow is mainly reflected in the bottom area, and the disturbed surrounding airflow can make PM2.5 diffuse to higher areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of remote sensing techniques and prediction models for soybean rust (SBR) monitoring may result in different fungicide application timings, control efficacy, and spraying performance. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of a prediction model as a threshold for disease control decision-making and to identify the effect of different application timings on SBR control as well as on the spraying technology. There were two experimental trials that were conducted in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme: 2 cultivars (susceptible and partially resistant to SBR); and four application timings (conventional chemical control at a calendarized system basis; based on the prediction model; at the appearance of the first visible symptoms; and control without fungicide application). Spray deposit and coverage at each application timing were evaluated in the lower and upper region of the soybean canopy through quantitative analysis of a tracer and water-sensitive papers. The prediction model was calculated based on leaf reflectance data that were collected by remote sensing. Application timings impacted the application technology as well as control efficacy. Calendarized system applications were conducted earlier, promoting different spray performances. Spraying at moments when the leaf area index was higher obtained poorer distribution. None of the treatments were capable of achieving high spray penetration into the canopy. The partially resistant cultivar was effective in holding disease progress during the crop season, whereas all treatments with chemical control resulted in less disease impact. The use of the prediction model was effective and promising to be integrated into disease management programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a new type of water pressure and air pressure composite slurry is proposed to ensure the safety of spraying. Firstly, the air tightness, bending resistance and viscosity of the spraying material were measured in the laboratory. Secondly, the two-fluid VOF model was used to analyze the influence laws of the spraying process, the spraying area formed on the wall, the thickness of the spraying layer and the pressure at the nozzle (or initial flow rate), the spraying distance, the spraying time, and the spraying direction. The research shows that (1) the new composite slurry spraying material made of clay:cement:additive:engineering fiber = 84:14:1.85:0.15 has suitable sealing and bending resistance and adhesion. (2) The smaller the spraying distance is, the larger the spraying area formed on the side wall in a short time, and the shape is regular, but the spraying area is relatively small. The spraying area increases with the increase in spraying distance, and the slurry thickness becomes thinner with the increase in spraying distance. (3) When the initial spraying speed is high, the shape of the spraying area is regular, the spraying thickness is large and the uniformity is suitable, but the shape and uniformity of the spraying area are related to the time when the slurry reaches the side wall. The longer the time when the slurry reaches the side wall, the greater the influence of gravity and surrounding fluid, and the more changes along the process. (4) When the spraying surface is at the top, the spraying process is significantly affected by gravity, and discontinuous spraying areas will be formed on the top surface. Especially when the initial spraying speed is low, the amount of slurry reaching the top surface fluctuates due to rebound and increases with the increase in the initial spraying speed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of remote sensing techniques and prediction models for soybean rust (SBR) monitoring may result in different fungicide application timings, control efficacy, and spraying performance. This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of a prediction model as a threshold for disease control decision-making and to identify the effect of different application timings on SBR control as well as on the spraying technology. There were two experimental trials that were conducted in a 2 × 4 factorial scheme: 2 cultivars (susceptible and partially resistant to SBR); and four application timings (conventional chemical control at a calendarized system basis; based on the prediction model; at the appearance of the first visible symptoms; and control without fungicide application). Spray deposit and coverage at each application timing were evaluated in the lower and upper region of the soybean canopy through quantitative analysis of a tracer and water-sensitive papers. The prediction model was calculated based on leaf reflectance data that were collected by remote sensing. Application timings impacted the application technology as well as control efficacy. Calendarized system applications were conducted earlier, promoting different spray performances. Spraying at moments when the leaf area index was higher obtained poorer distribution. None of the treatments were capable of achieving high spray penetration into the canopy. The partially resistant cultivar was effective in holding disease progress during the crop season, whereas all treatments with chemical control resulted in less disease impact. The use of the prediction model was effective and promising to be integrated into disease management programs.

This study aimed to assess, in a microcosm condition, the efficacy of electrostatic spraying of herbicide imazamox in the control of Salvinia molesta and the effects of decomposition of plant material on water quality. The herbicide rates used were 600, 700, 800, and 900 g ai ha−1 and spray volume of 50 L ha−1 in electrostatic application. Control effectiveness was assessed at 7, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days after application (DAA), expressed in percentage (0–100%) of visible injury symptoms in the plants, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chlorophyll a and pheophytin a contents at 0, 7, 15, 30, 45, and 60 DAA, and fresh and dry biomass at 60 DAA. Imazamox was effective in controlling 63% of S. molesta with 900 g ai ha−1 in 45 DAA and 30% with 800 g ai ha−1 in 30 DAA, and reduced 82.3% and 17.5% of fresh weight and 62.6% and 9.3% of dry weight of plant at 60 DAA, respectively. The imazamox spray reduced chlorophyll a with all doses applied and increased BOD5 in 45 DAA with 900 g ai ha−1 and COD in all assessment periods, but for temperature, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, and pH, there was no significant effect after spraying. The herbicide imazamox reduced S. molesta plants with 900 g ai ha−1, without causing significant effects on environmental indicators of water quality. Electrostatic spraying of herbicide can be used in management strategies of aquatic plants to reduce plant density in water bodies and maintain the colonization of plants at a level not harmful to the aquatic biota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With changing climate and farmland ecological conditions, pest outbreaks in agricultural landscapes are becoming more frequent, increasing the need for improved crop production tools and methods. UAV-based agricultural spraying is anticipated to be an important new technology for providing efficient and effective applications of crop protection products. This paper reviews and summarizes the status of the current research and progress on UAV application technologies for plant protection, and it discusses the characteristics of atomization by unmanned aircraft application systems with a focus on spray applications of agrichemicals. Additionally, the factors influencing the spraying performance including downwash airflow field and operating parameters are analyzed, and a number of key technologies for reducing drift and enhancing the application efficiency such as remote sensing, variable-rate technologies, and spray drift models are considered. Based on the reviewed literature, future developments and the impacts of these UAV technologies are projected. This review may inspire the innovation of the combined use of big data analytics and UAV technology, precision agricultural spraying technology, drift reduction technology, swarm UAV cooperative technology, and other supporting technologies for UAV-based aerial spraying for scientific research in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, thrips have transitioned from a minor nuisance to a major problem, significantly impacting the yield and quality of cotton. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for plant protection have emerged as an effective alternative to traditional pesticide spraying equipment. UAVs offer advantages such as avoiding crop damage and enhancing pesticide deposition on the plants and have become the primary choice for pesticide application in cotton fields. In this study, a 2-year field experiment found that the thrips population in a cotton field in Xinjiang, China, exhibited gradual growth during the early flowering phase, peaking in late July. The thrips population gradually shifted from the lower canopy to the upper canopy as the cotton flowers opened layer by layer. From 09:00 to 11:00 (GMT+8) and 19:00 to 21:00 (GMT+8), thrips mainly flew outside the flowers, while from 17:00 to 19:00 (GMT+8), they mostly inhabited the inner whorls of flowers. The insecticides 10% cyantraniliprole oil dispersion and 10% spinetoram suspension concentrate, sprayed by UAV, had the best control effect on thrips, with 80.51% and 79.22% control effect after 7 days of spraying, respectively. The optimal spraying time for 10% cyantraniliprole oil dispersion was 19:00 (GMT+8), and the control effect on thrips reached 91.16% at 7 days of spraying. During the cotton flowering period, thrips inhabited flowers in the evening and flew outside during the day. The best control effect on thrips was achieved with UAV-sprayed 10% cyantraniliprole oil dispersion at 19:00 (GMT+8)., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Liu, Dou, Ren, Ma, Liu, Qasim and Han.)

In this research, the authors set out to propose a new method of predicting and adjusting the main cutting parameters of chip machining, namely spraying on the substrate. In the experiments, a total of 28 turning cuts on a Stellite 6 coating layer were realized. The base materials of the Stellite 6 layers were EN S235JRG1 and carbide WC-Co. This work aimed to find out and optimize the influence of different combinations of cutting parameters. Due to the coating solution, the work is focused on the evaluation of the roughness Ra (μm) of the turned substrate, the grain size Dgr (μm) of the spraying, the normal stress σrz (MPa), the residual stress σrez (MPa), the specific cutting force Fc (N), the quality of adhesion to the substrate Adhmp (MPa) and other parameters. For the sake of a comprehensive solution to the problem, several new predictive equations and subsequent suggestions for solutions have been derived from this research topic based on the newly obtained experimental results. The proposed models and procedures make it possible to get new results and insights into coating technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ciência Agronômica is the property of Revista Ciencia Agronomica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In this research, the authors set out to propose a new method of predicting and adjusting the main cutting parameters of chip machining, namely spraying on the substrate. In the experiments, a total of 28 turning cuts on a Stellite 6 coating layer were realized. The base materials of the Stellite 6 layers were EN S235JRG1 and carbide WC-Co. This work aimed to find out and optimize the influence of different combinations of cutting parameters. Due to the coating solution, the work is focused on the evaluation of the roughness Ra (μm) of the turned substrate, the grain size Dgr (μm) of the spraying, the normal stress σrz (MPa), the residual stress σrez (MPa), the specific cutting force Fc (N), the quality of adhesion to the substrate Adhmp (MPa) and other parameters. For the sake of a comprehensive solution to the problem, several new predictive equations and subsequent suggestions for solutions have been derived from this research topic based on the newly obtained experimental results. The proposed models and procedures make it possible to get new results and insights into coating technologies.

Centrifugal atomization technique is internationally recognized as one of the most appropriate methods for obtaining uniform fine droplets, and also an advanced technology to get a narrower range of droplet particle spectrum. The importance and related mechanism of centrifugal atomization technique in the field of plant protection are expounded, and the overview of centrifugal atomization technique at home and abroad is introduced. Moreover, the direction of future research in this field is prospected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a quantidade e qualidade da deposição da calda de pulverização em plantas de Commelina diffusa, considerando volumes de aplicação, pontas de pulverização e o ângulo dos bicos na barra de pulverização. Foram utilizadas cinco hastes de plantas por vaso. O delineamento experimental adotado foi o inteiramente casualizado, com 20 repetições. O experimento foi realizado em casa de vegetação, e a aplicação da calda foi efetuada após 40 dias do transplantio das hastes, quando estavam com 30 a 40 cm de comprimento (em pleno desenvolvimento). Foram avaliadas cinco pontas de pulverização: TX-VK 6 (100 L ha-1), TX-VK 8 (200 L ha-1), XR 11001 VS (100 L ha-1), XR 11002 VS (200 L ha¹) e TJ60 11002 VS (100 e 200 L ha-1), as quais foram testadas com diferentes ângulos de aplicação (0º e +30º), exceto a TJ60 11002 VS. Foi utilizado como traçador o corante Azul Brilhante FDC-1 na concentração de 500 ppm, na determinação da deposição da calda de pulverização. Imediatamente após a aplicação, 20 hastes foram coletadas e, em seguida, lavadas em 100 mL de água destilada, para posterior quantificação do traçador em espectrofotômetro. Os dados foram transformados em valores de depósitos por grama de massa seca e ajustados à curva de regressão pelo modelo de Gompertz. Independentemente da ponta utilizada, o volume de 200 L ha-1 proporcionou os maiores depósitos nas plantas, destacando-se a ponta TJ60. A ponta XR 11001 VS (100 L ha-1) proporcionou a melhor uniformidade quando se utilizou o ângulo de +30º.The objective of this study was to evaluate the quantity and quality of spray deposition in Commelina diffusa plants, considering application volume, spray nozzles and the angle of the bar of the spray nozzles. Five stems of plants/pot were planted. The experimental treatments were set up on a randomized design with twenty replications. The experiment was carried out under greenhouse conditions and the solution was applied after 40 days of stem transplanting, when the plants were between 30 to 40 cm long (in full development). Five spray nozzles (TX-VK 6 (100 L ha¹ ), TX-VK 8 (200 L ha-1), XR 11001 VS (100 L ha-1), XR 11002 VS (200 L ha-1) and TJ60 11002 VS (100 and 200 L ha-1), were evaluated, using different angles of application (0º and +30º), except for TJ60 11002 VS nozzle. Brilliant blue FDC 1 was used as a tracer solution, with 500 ppm to determine spray deposition. Immediately after application, twenty weed stems were collected, and washed in 100 mL of distilled water for posterior tracer quantification in a spectrophotometer. The data were adjusted to a regression curve, according to the Gompertz model. Independent of the spray nozzle used, the volume of 200 L ha-1 provided the most deposits on the plants, with the TJ60 nozzle being the most outstanding. The XR 11001 VS nozzle (100 L ha-1) provided the best uniformity when an angle of +30º was used.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o depósito de calda pulverizada por dois tipos de pontas de pulverização sobre plantas de Salvinia auriculata dispostas em diferentes arranjos populacionais com plantas de Eichhornia crassipes e Pistia stratiotes. Um experimento foi conduzido em condições de caixas-d'água em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos foram dispostos em esquema fatorial 2 x 8, sendo dois tipos de pontas de pulverização (ConeJet TXVK-8 e TeeJet DG 11002 VS) e oito proporções entre as plantas aquáticas, a saber: dominância total da área de cobertura da caixa-d'água pelas plantas de salvínia (100%); e as proporções entre plantas de salvínia e de aguapé ou alface-d'água a 75%:25%, 50%:50% e 25%:75%. Também foi utilizada uma densidade tripla, na qual as três espécies estiveram igualmente dispostas na proporção de 33%. Soluções dos corantes Amarelo Tartrasina FDC-5 a 3.500 ppm e Azul Brilhante FDC-1 a 1.000 ppm foram utilizadas como traçadores para as pontas TXVK-8 e DG 11002VS, respectivamente. A pulverização das soluções foi efetuada na mesma unidade experimental, com intervalo de 30 minutos entre si, com auxílio de um pulverizador costal pressurizado com CO2, calibrado de modo que proporcionasse volume de aplicação aproximado de 200 L ha-1. Não foram observadas diferenças estatísticas entre os tipos de pontas de pulverização nas diferentes proporções estudadas, exceto para depósitos totais de calda de pulverização nas plantas na condição de dominância total da salvínia, uma vez que a ponta ConeJet TXVK-8 foi superior à TeeJet DG 11002 VS. Os valores dos depósitos diminuíram com o aumento da proporção de plantas de aguapé na associação e foram na condição em que 25% de plantas de salvínia estiveram associadas a 75% de plantas de aguapé. A presença da espécie alface-d'água não influenciou a deposição de gotas sobre as folhas de salvínia.This study aimed to evaluate two types of spray tips (ConeJet TXVK-8 and TeeJet DG 11002 VS) and the amount of spray mix deposited on Salvinia auriculata plants organized under different population arrangements with Eichhornia crassipes and Pistia stratiotes plants. In addition to a full-dominance proportion over the area, corresponding to 100% cover of the water tank by eared water moss plants, arrangements with either water hyacinth or water lettuce were made at 75%:25%, 50%:50%, and 25%:75%. A triple density, in which the three species were equally disposed at a 33.33% proportion, was also used. Dye solutions of FD&C Yellow no. 5 at 3,500 ppm and FD&C Blue no.1 at 1,000 ppm were used, as spraying tracers for TXVK-8 and DG 11002 VS nozzles, respectively. Both solutions were sprayed at the same plot within a 30-minute interval each, through a CO2 pressured backpack, calibrated to deliver a spray volume of around 200 L ha-1. The total spray deposits were estimated in mL per plant and the unit deposits in mL cm² of foliar surface. No significant differences were observed between the nozzle tips used at different population arrangements, except total spray mix deposited on plants at 100% of eared water moss dominance proportion, with ConeJet TXVK-8, providing superior spray mix deposition, compared with TeeJet DG 11002 VS. The highest spray mix deposition was obtained under 100% of salvínia dominance. However, the spray mix quantity decreased with increase of water hyacinth in the proportion and reached the lowest value when 25% of eared water moss plants were associated with 75% of water hyacinth plants. The presence of water lettuce did not influence spray mix deposition over eared water moss plants.

El conocimiento de las características de las diferentes boquillas de pulverización tiene una importancia imprescindible para la adecuada y correcta recomendación de su uso. El objetivo de este trabajo fue determinar el espaciamiento máximo en la barra horizontal de pulverización, la simetría del chorro y el diámetro de gotas en boquillas de pulverización TF-VS2. El trabajo fue realizado en mesa de deposición, en donde fueron utilizadas las presiones de 100, 200 y 300 kPa en las alturas de trabajo de 40 y 50 cm. La simetría del chorro fue determinada en función de dos metodologías (empírica y trigonométrica). También se determinó el tamaño de las gotas, utilizando el método de difracción de rayos laser, en función de dos caldos de pulverización constituidos por agua y por agua con adyuvante en las tres presiones de trabajo ya descritas. Los espaciamientos máximos entre las boquillas en la barra de pulverización no pueden rebasar los 70 y 82 cm, admitiéndose el CV de un 10% para las alturas de 40 y de 50 cm respectivamente. La mayor presión proporcionó el menor diámetro mediano volumétrico (DMV) y la peor uniformidad de gotas, además del mayor porcentaje de gotas susceptibles a deriva, así como también aumentó la simetría entre los chorros.The knowledge of spray distribution pattern and analysis of droplets size of spray hydraulic nozzles turbo Floodjet TF-VS2 to adapt the spacing on spray boom are very important for a proper and correct use and recommendations. The aim of this study was to determine the maximum spacing on the horizontal spraying boom held on a patternator to the tips TF-VS2, under pressures of 100, 200 and 300 kPa in heights of work of 40 and 50 cm. Symmetry of spraying fan was determined due empirical and trigonometric methodology. It was also determined the droplets size by means of laser diffraction, with two spray liquids consisting of water and water plus adjuvant under three work pressures, described above. The maximum spacing between nozzles should be 70 and 82cm assuming the coefficient of variation of 10% for the heights of 40 and 50cm respectively. The higher pressure of work provided the lowest volume median diameter (VMD) and the worst uniformity of drops, beyond the higher percentage of drops susceptible to drift and improve the spray symmetry.

Este trabalho teve por objetivo avaliar o depósito de calda pulverizada por dois tipos de pontas de pulverização sob plantas de alface-d'água (Pistia stratiotes) dispostas em diferentes arranjos populacionais com plantas de aguapé (Eichhornia crassipes) e salvínia (Salvinia auriculata). Para isso, foi conduzido um experimento em condições de caixas-d'água em delineamento experimental inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições. Os tratamentos estiveram dispostos em esquema fatorial 2 x 8, sendo dois tipos de pontas de pulverização (ConeJet TXVK-8 e TeeJet DG 11002 VS) e oito proporções entre as plantas aquáticas, a saber: dominância total da área correspondente a 100% de cobertura da caixa-d'água pelas plantas de alface-d'água; e as proporções entre plantas de alface-d'água e plantas de aguapé ou salvínia a 75%:25%, 50%:50% e 25%:75%. Também foi utilizada uma densidade tripla, na qual as três espécies estiveram igualmente dispostas na proporção de 33,33%. Soluções dos corantes Amarelo Tartrasina FDC-5 a 3.500 ppm e Azul Brilhante FDC-1 a 1.000 ppm foram utilizadas como traçadores para as pontas TXVK-8 e DG 11002VS, respectivamente. A pulverização de ambas as soluções foi efetuada na mesma unidade experimental, com um intervalo de 30 minutos entre si, utilizando-se um pulverizador costal pressurizado com CO2, calibrado de modo a proporcionar um volume de aplicação aproximado de 200 L ha. Após a pulverização, as plantas presentes nos reservatórios foram lavadas com água destilada, até remoção total dos corantes. Os depósitos totais de calda foram estimados em μL por planta, e os depósitos unitários, em μL cm-2 de superfície foliar. O aumento na proporção de plantas de aguapé na associação proporcionou menores depósitos de calda de pulverização sobre as plantas de alface-d'água. Em contrapartida, o aumento na proporção de salvínia na associação propiciou maiores depósitos de calda de pulverização, independentemente do tipo de ponta de pulverização. A ponta TXVK-8 proporcionou depósitos unitários e totais de calda de pulverização superiores aos da ponta DG 11002VS.This study aimed to evaluate two types of nozzles (ConeJet TXVK-8 and TeeJet DG 11002 VS) and the amount of spray mix deposited on water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) plants organized under different population arrangements with water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) and eared watermoss (Salvinia auriculata) plants. In addition to a full-dominance proportion over the area, corresponding to 100% cover of the water tank by eared watermoss plants, arrangements were used with either water hyacinth or water lettuce at 75%:25%, 50%:50%, and 25%:75%. Triple density was also used, with the three species being equally displayed at a 33.33% proportion. Dye solutions of FD&C Yellow no. 5 at 3,500 ppm and FD&C Blue no. 1 at 1,000 ppm were used as spraying tracers for TXVK-8 and DG 11002 VS nozzles, respectively. Both solutions were sprayed at the same plot within 30 minute interval each through a CO2 pressured backpack knapsack calibrated to deliver a spray volume around 200 L ha-1 . Plants at reservoirs were flushed with distilled water until total removal of the dyes deposited on them. The total spray deposits were estimated in μL per plant and the unitary deposits where estimated in μL cm-2 of foliar surface. Increase in water hyacinth plant proportion in the arrangement resulted in lower spray deposition over water lettuce. Increase in water moss plant proportion in the arrangement provided higher spray depositions over water lettuce, independently of the nozzle type used. The TXVK-8 nozzles provided higher unitary and total spray depositions compared to the DG 11002 VS nozzle.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do volume de calda aplicado por um turbopulverizador sobre a deposição e a cobertura em folhas, ramos e frutos de citros. A pulverização foi realizada com um pulverizador tratorizado Arbus 2000/Valência em pomar de laranja 'Natal', com porte médio de 4,0 m, sendo avaliados seis volumes de calda (50; 70; 85; 100; 150 e 200% do volume-padrão utilizado pelo produtor, de 28 L planta-1). Após a pulverização de plantas uniformes com calda contendo cobre e o traçador fluorescente Poliglow 830 YLSS, amostras foram coletadas em nove setores da planta, sendo a avaliação da deposição feita usando-se análise do íon cobre por espectrofotômetro de absorção atômica, e a da cobertura, por meio de imagens digitalizadas analisadas pelo programa para computador IDRISI. A análise estatística mostrou que, na avaliação da cobertura e deposição em citros, a utilização de frutos como estrutura de amostragem tendeu a evidenciar melhor o efeito dos tratamentos. Tanto a deposição quanto a cobertura tenderam a ser maiores nos setores frontal e saia da planta. Tanto a deposição quanto a cobertura não foram prejudicadas pela utilização do volume de 70% (19,6 L planta-1), indicando que tal volume pode substituir o volume de 100% (28 L planta-1) sem prejuízos ao controle de pragas.The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of different carrier volume applied with an airblast sprayer on spray deposition on leaves, branch and fruits in citrus trees. It was used a trailed sprayer Arbus 200/Valência in an orange orchard, variety Natal, with 4,0 m mean height, and six volumes were evaluated (50; 70; 85; 100; 150 and 200% relative to the standard volume in use, 28 L plant-1). After spraying of regular plants with carrier containing copper and Poliglow 830 YLSS as fluorescent tracer, the samples were collected in nine localization of the tree. The evaluation of spray deposition was done with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer by analyze of copper ion. The evaluation of spray coverage was done by digitalized image which were analyzed with IDRISIS software. The analysis statistical showed that in the evaluation of spray coverage and deposition in citrus the use of fruits as sample made to evidence better the effect of the treatments. The spray coverage and deposition had been trend higher upon frontal horizontal sector and upon lower vertical sector of the tree. The spray coverage and deposition had not been prejudiced by the use of 70% rate (19.6 L plant-1) which indicates that this volume can replace the 100% rate (28.0 L plants-1) without disadvantage in the control periods.

O objetivo do experimento foi avaliar o melhor sentido de caminhamento de um pulverizador de barras, montado em três pontos no trator, nas culturas de soja e de feijão. As pulverizações foram orientadas no sentido longitudinal às linhas de semeadura, transversal às linhas de semeadura e no mesmo sentido das linhas de semeadura com os pneus percorrendo locais pré-definidos onde não houve a distribuição de sementes (tramlines). Foram avaliados os componentes de produtividade. Pelos resultados, pode-se observar que não houve diferença significativa quanto aos componentes de produtividade avaliados na cultura da soja quando se variou o sentido da pulverização. Na cultura do feijoeiro, a pulverização no sentido longitudinal apresentou maior produtividade.The aim of this experiment was to evaluate the best track of a bar sprayer-set in three points of the tractor, in soybean and bean crops. Sprayings were oriented longitudinally to the sowing lines and transversally to the sowing lines with tires passing through pre-determined areas where the sowing was not done (tramlines). Yield factors were evaluated the factors related to yield. Results showed no difference in relation to the components of yield evaluated in the soybean crop even when a variation was done in the track of spraying. However in the bean crop there was a bigger production when track was sprayed longitudinally.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of nozzle types and 2,4-D formulations on spray deposition on different targets. Two field experiments were carried out in a completely randomized design, and treatments were arranged in a factorial scheme. Species in experiment 1 were Sumatran fleabane (Conyza sumatrensis) and Brazil pusley (Richardia brasiliensis) and in experiment 2 were soybeans (Glycine max) and Benghal dayflower (Commelina benghalensis). For both experiments, the first factor corresponded to spray nozzles with different settings (AD 110.015 – 61 and 105 L ha−1; AD 015-D – 75 and 146 L ha−1; XR 110.0202 – 200 L ha−1; and ADIA-D 110.02 – 208 L ha−1) and the second factor consisted of two formulations of 2,4-D (amine and choline). The formulation of 2,4-D choline has contained Colex-D™ Technology. Similar or higher spray deposition was observed on the leaves and artificial targets when using 2,4-D choline as compared to the 2,4-D amine formulation, and these differences in deposition were more evident for nozzles applying lower spray volumes. Deposition was more affected by nozzle type when amine formulation was used, compared to choline formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

A camera sensor for precision weed control in arable fields has been developed at the Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering. For herbicide spraying in carrots, the sensor was positioned at the front three-point linkage of a tractor and was operated between carrot rows. In field trials in 2 years, real-time (online) technology in which sensing and spraying were performed in one step was evaluated in comparison with a conventional uniform spraying application. The spray volume was linearly adjusted to the camera-detected weed coverage level from a minimum of 200 L ha−1 if no weeds were present to a maximum of 400 L ha−1. The herbicide savings were 30% in 2007 and 34%, 43% and 36% for each of three applications in 2010. There were no significant differences between the camera-based and conventional spraying approaches with regard to yield parameters, total carrot weight and weight of marketable carrots. Regarding the weed control efficiency of the camera-based spraying procedure in the 2010 experiment, no trend was observed between the weed coverage and the application rate of the previous spraying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Estudos foram conduzidos com o objetivo de avaliar os depósitos de gotas pulverizadas através de dois tipos de pontas sobre as faces adaxial e abaxial de folhas de Eichhornia crassipes dispostas em diferentes ângulos. No primeiro estudo, os tratamentos foram dispostos no esquema fatorial 2x4x7: dois tipos de pontas (TX12 e XR11002VS), quatro ângulos verticais (0º, 30º, 60º e 90º) e sete ângulos horizontais (0º, 15º, 30º, 45º, 60º, 75º e 90º). No ângulo vertical de 90º a lâmina foliar foi posicionada paralelamente ao sentido de deslocamento do jato de pulverização; e no ângulo horizontal de 90º a folha foi posicionada perpendicularmente ao plano do solo. Como traçadores, foram utilizadas soluções de 1.000 ppm do corante Azul FDC-1 e 3.500 ppm do corante Amarelo Tartrasina para as pontas tipo leque e cone, respectivamente. No segundo estudo, os tratamentos foram dispostos no esquema fatorial 2x2x3: dois tipos de pontas (TX12 e XR11002VS), dois tipos de calda (com e sem Aterbane BR a 0,5%) e três ângulos horizontais (0º, 45º e 90º). Adotou-se o ângulo vertical de 90º como padrão para todos os tratamentos. Soluções de 1.000 ppm do corante Azul FDC-1 e 3.500 ppm do corante Amarelo Tartrasina foram utilizadas como traçadores para a calda com e sem surfatante, respectivamente. Os resultados do primeiro estudo revelaram que os depósitos observados em toda a folha e na face adaxial das lâminas foliares de aguapé diminuíram à medida que se aumentou a angulação vertical, independentemente da ponta utilizada. Os menores depósitos sempre estiveram relacionados ao ângulo vertical de 90º, independentemente do ângulo horizontal utilizado. Não foi detectado nenhum depósito na face abaxial das folhas de aguapé em todas as combinações dos fatores estudados. No segundo estudo também foram observados os mesmos decréscimos no volume de calda depositado em toda a folha e na face adaxial à medida que se aumentou a angulação vertical das lâminas foliares. As duas pontas proporcionaram depósitos nulos na face abaxial quando o surfatante não foi utilizado; entretanto, a adição do surfatante à calda incrementou significativamente os depósitos nesta face da folha do aguapé.This study aimed to evaluate the deposition of drops using two nozzle types over Eichhornia crassipes leaves. The first trial was arranged in a factorial design 2x4x7, as follows: 2 nozzle types (TX12 and XR11002VS), 4 vertical angles (0º, 30º, 60º and 90º) and 7 horizontal angles (0º, 15º, 30º, 45º, 60º, 75º and 90º). The laminar leaf was set up parallel to the jet spraying movement direction at a vertical angle of 90º, and perpendicular to the soil plane at a horizontal angle of 90º. Solutions of dyes FD&C Blue no. 1 at 1,000 ppm and FD&C Yellow no. 5 at 3.500 ppm were used as spraying tracers for flat fan and cone nozzles, respectively. The second trial was set up as a factorial design 2x2x3, being 2 nozzle types (TX12 and XR11002VS), 2 spray solution conditions (with and without Aterbane BR at 0.5% v/v) and 4 horizontal angles (0º, 45º and 90º). The vertical angle of 90º was assigned as pattern to all the treatments. Solutions of dyes FD&C Blue no. 1 at 1,000 ppm and FD&C Yellow no. 5 at 3.500 ppm were used as spraying tracers with or without surfactant, respectively. The results obtained from the first trial showed that the spray solution deposits observed on the whole leaf and on the foliar adaxial face of the laminar leaves of water hyacinth decreased as the vertical angle became higher, regardless of the nozzle type used. The lowest spray solution deposits were always related to the vertical angle of 90º, regardless of the horizontal angle adopted. No spray solution deposit was detected on the abaxial face of water hyacinth leaf at the combinations of the factors studied. In the second trial the same spray solution deposit was observed to decrease the whole leaf and adaxial faces as the vertical angle increased. Both nozzle types provided null and void deposits on the abaxial face when the surfactant was not used. However, the surfactant addition to the spray solution provided significant increases on the abaxial face of water hyacinth leaves.

Três estudos foram conduzidos no Núcleo de Pesquisas Avançadas em Matologia (NUPAM) pertencente à UNESP/FCA - campus de Botucatu-SP, com o objetivo de avaliar a estabilidade dos corantes Azul Brilhante FDC-1 e Amarelo Tartrasina FDC-5 quanto a diferentes períodos de exposição à luz solar e contato com folhas de Eichhornia crassipes. No primeiro estudo, soluções de 0,3125, 0,625, 1,25, 2,5, 5, 10 e 20 ppm dos corantes Azul Brilhante FDC-1 e Amarelo Tartrasina FDC-5 foram acondicionadas em tubos de quartzo hermeticamente fechados e submetidos a 0, 0,5, 1, 2, 4, 6 e 10 horas de exposição à luz solar e ao escuro. Ao final de cada período, amostras de 10 mL foram retiradas dos tubos e analisadas. No segundo estudo, os tratamentos foram dispostos no esquema fatorial 2x7: duas condições luminosas (escuro e pleno sol) e sete períodos de exposição (0, 0,5, 1, 2, 4, 6 e 10 horas), com seis repetições. Com o auxílio de micropipeta, oito gotas de 5 µL das soluções Azul Brilhante e Amarelo Tartrasina a 4.000 ppm foram depositadas em placas de Petri de vidro. Após o término dos períodos de exposição, as placas foram lavadas com 50 mL de água destilada, com o objetivo de extrair o corante depositado sobre elas. No terceiro estudo, adotaram-se os mesmos tratamentos do segundo experimento, com quatro repetições, porém as soluções foram depositadas sobre as folhas de plantas de Eichhornia crassipes. Foram adotados também os mesmos procedimentos de extração dos corantes após o término dos períodos de exposição. As soluções finais obtidas nos três estudos foram submetidas à leitura óptica de absorbância em espectrofotômetro UV-visível nos comprimentos de onda de 630 e 427 nm, para os corantes Azul Brilhante FDC-1 e Amarelo Tartrasina FDC-5, respectivamente. As várias concentrações das soluções de ambos os corantes não sofreram degradação pela luz solar quando submetidas aos vários períodos de incidência luminosa nos tubos de quartzo (ambiente fechado), visto que as curvas de recuperação apresentaram equações semelhantes àquelas concentrações que foram mantidas no escuro. A mesma estabilidade também foi observada quando os corantes foram submetidos à luz solar em ambiente aberto, ou seja, nas placas de Petri. O corante Amarelo Tartrasina também se apresentou muito estável quando depositado sobre as folhas de E. crassipes, independentemente da exposição ou não à luz solar. Para o corante Azul Brilhante, ocorreram significativas perdas de 7,8 e 18,6% quando esteve depositado na superfície da folha de aguapé pelo período de 10 horas sob condições de escuro e plena luz solar, respectivamente.Three trials were carried out at Núcleo de Pesquisas Avançadas em Matologia (NUPAM), FCA/UNESP - Campus de Botucatu, SP, Brazil, to evaluate the stability of dyes FD&C Blue no. 1 and FD&C Yellow no. 5 when exposed to different periods of solar light and Eichhornia crassipes leaf contact. Solutions at 0,3125, 0,625, 1,25, 2,5, 5, 10 and 20 ppm of both dyes were prepared and conditioned into Quartz tubes hermetically closed and submitted to several solar light and darkness periods, as follows 0; 0,5; 1; 2; 4; 6 and 10 hours. Samples of 10 mL were collected from the tubes after the end of each period and left to posterior analysis. The second trial treatments were designed as a factorial 2x7: 2 light conditions (sunlight or darkness) and 7 exposure timings (0; 0,5; 1; 2; 4; 6 and 10 hours), with six replications. Eight drops of 5 µL of FD&C Blue no. 1 and FD&C Yellow no. 5 solutions at 4,000 ppm were placed on glass Petri dishes, using a micropipette. Petri dishes were washed with 50 mL of distilled water immediately after each exposure period ending to extract the dyes deposited on it. The same treatments were used in the third trial, with four replications. However, the coloring solutions were dropped on Eichhornia crassipes foliar surfaces. The same dye extraction procedures were also used after each exposure period ending. The final solutions obtained from the three trials were submitted to absorbance optical analysis at spectrophotometer UV-Visible on wave length of 630 and 427 nm for FD&C Blue no. 1 and FD&C Yellow no. 5 dyes, respectively. Both coloring solutions at different concentrations were not degraded by solar light after being submitted to each exposure period of sunlight incidence into the Quartz tubes (closed situation), since recovering curves showed practically the same equations when compared to the dye solutions kept under darkness conditions. The same stability was observed when the dye solutions were submitted to sun light incidence in open ambient, i.e., on Petri dishes. FD&C Yellow no. 5 showed high stability when dropped over E. crassipes leaves, regardless of the light condition. However, statistical losses of 7.8% and 16.8% were observed when FD&C Blue no. 1 was dropped over the surface of water hyacinth leaves during 10 h under darkness and sunlight incidence conditions, respectively.

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi avaliar a eficiência do herbicida MSMA no controle da planta daninha tiririca (Cyperus rotundus), quando aplicado com diferentes volumes de calda, associado ou não a surfatantes to tipo organossiliconados. Os tratamentos, dispostos no delineamento de blocos casualizados com quatro repetições, foram: MSMA (2,4 kg ha-1), MSMA (2,4 kg ha¹ + surfatante organossiliconado [marca comercial Silwet L-77] 0,05% v/v) e MSMA (2,4 kg ha-1 + surfatante organossiliconado [marca comercial Break Thru] 0,05% v/v), aplicados em quatro volumes de calda (100, 200, 300 e 400 L ha-1), e duas testemunhas (capinada e sem capina). A pressão de trabalho do pulverizador (3,0 kgf cm-2) foi mantida constante durante as aplicações, para todos os tratamentos. No momento das aplicações as manifestações epígeas de tiririca apresentavam em média oito folhas. O surfatante marca comercial Silwet L-77 mostrou tendência de acelerar a toxidez do MSMA sobre a parte aérea da tiririca; todavia, variações do volume de calda aplicado por hectare com adição ou não de surfatantes organossiliconados não incrementaram o controle dessa planta daninha. O MSMA proporcionou apenas controle regular da tiririca (60-70%).The objective of this research was to evaluate the efficiency of the herbicide MSMA in controlling the weed Cyperus rotundus. Different spray volumes, associated or not to organosilicone surfactants were used. The treatments were arranged in a randomized complete blocks design with four replications: MSMA (2.4 kg ha-1), MSMA (2.4 kg ha-1 + organosilicone surfactante [commercial product = Silwet L-77] 0.05% v/v) and MSMA (2.4 kg ha-1 + [commercial product = Break Thru] 0.05% v/v), applied at four spray volumes (100, 200, 300 and 400 L ha-1), and two check treatments (weeded and weed free). The boom sprayer pressure (3.0 kgf cm-2) was maintained constant for all treatments. At the application timing, C. rotundus plants were at the stage of eight leaves average. The surfactant commercial product Silwet L-77 showed a tendency of accelerating MSMA toxicity on the shoot of C. rotundus. Spray volume associeated or not to addition of the organosilicone surfactants did not increase C. rotundus control. MSMA presented only a fair control of C. rotundus (60-70%).

BACKGROUND Wheat ears are difficult targets from the aspect of fungicide spraying. Sideward-spraying nozzle types may enhance the ear coverage, which may possibly lead to higher effectiveness in the management of Fusarium head blight ( FHB). RESULTS On average, sideward-spraying Turbo TeeJet Duo nozzles resulted in 1.30 and 1.43 times higher prothioconazole-desthio and tebuconazole contents and Turbo FloodJet nozzles in 1.08 and 1.34 times higher prothioconazole-desthio and tebuconazole contents in wheat ears by comparison with those achieved with vertically-spraying XR TeeJet nozzles. In contrast, the vertically-spraying XR TeeJet nozzles resulted in 1.57 and 1.31 times higher prothioconazole-desthio and tebuconazole contents in the flag leaf blade. The degradation of the active ingredient ( AI) depended on the year, the cultivar and the plant organ, but not on the spraying method. There was no clear relationship between the efficacy of a given nozzle type and the outcome of the FHB epidemic. CONCLUSIONS The ear coverage and therefore the AI content have been improved with the two sideward-spraying nozzle types. There was no effective translocation of the AI content between the ears and flag leaf blades. Prothioconazole and tebuconazole proved to be highly effective in the management of FHB, but the FHB resistance of the cultivar was also decisive. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Agro@mbiente On-line is the property of Revista Agro@mbiente On-line and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Applied Technology for Agricultural Science / Revista Brasileira de Tecnologia Aplicada nas Ciências Agrárias is the property of Brazilian Journal of Applied Technology for Agricultural Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Four nano-sized graded absorbents were explored. • The 5 wt% coupling agent and 10 wt% dispersant was validated for graded absorbent. • The double-layer structure was made using spraying and extruding methodology. • The EMW mechanism for the graded double-layer structure was firstly summarized. • Theoretical calculation optimized a 15 mm absorbing layer and 15 mm impedance layer. The ever-increasing electromagnetic wave (EMW) energy and its reflections may impair human health and information security. An ordinary EMW-absorbing structure usually exhibits limited EMW-reflecting capacity given its ungraded structure in both the micro and macro scales. In this study, four nano-sized graded absorbents are explored by wrapping carbonyl-iron powder with nano-sized silicon dioxide. The micro-scale wrapping effects are assessed via a scanning electron microscopy experiment to identify the best sample, including a 5 wt% coupling agent and a 10 wt% dispersant in CIP ethanol. The 10 mm thick concrete matching layer containing the graded absorbent is built using spraying methodology, and the 15 mm thick absorption layer is fabricated using extruding methodology. The mercury intrusion porosimetry experiments show that the sprayed matching layer incurs maximum porosity at 19.8% while the 3D extruded layer ensures the minimum porosity at 11.13%, strengthening the laminar grading effect to improve the EMW impedance matching. The Naval Research Laboratory experiments corroborate that double-layer structures improve the EMW-reflecting capacity compared to their single-absorption-layer counterparts and that the double-layer element containing the best wrapping effect absorbent yields the best reflection loss value, with a minimum of −14.7 dB and a 9.72 GHz effective bandwidth. The EMW-reflecting mechanism for the novel graded double-layer structure containing the graded nano-sized absorbent is then summarized. Theoretical calculations using the transform line theory suggest that a 15 mm absorbing layer and a 15 mm impedance matching layer is specified as the most optimized configuration, with −10.47 dB in average reflection, −15.18 dB in maximum RL, and 9.56 GHz in effective bandwidth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT An efficient pesticides spraying depends a lot in psychrometric conditions, mainly if it is using fine droplets, once climatic conditions may cause droplets evaporation and consequent financial loss to the farmer. Thus, the aim of this work was to determine the droplet spectrum depending on the vapour pressure deficits. The work was carried out inside of a climate chamber to obtain the vapour pressure deficits (VPDair). The laser particle analyzer, model Spraytech, was used to determine the droplet spectrum, and the experiment was conducted in factorial scheme 5 x 20, consisted of five working pressures (100; 200; 300; 400 and 500 kPa) and twenty VPDair (2.3; 3.2; 4.2; 5.6; 7.0; 7.4; 9.5; 11.7; 12.7; 15.8; 16.4; 16.9; 21.2; 22.1; 22.2; 28.1; 29.7; 36.9 39.4 e 51.6 hPa), in completely randomized design with five replications. There is influence of VPDair on droplet spectrum behavior. Increasing the VPDair reduces the percentage of sprayed volume comprised by droplets with diameter between 100 and 200 µm, between 200 and 300 µm, between 300 and 400 µm, between 400 and 500 µm and between 500 and 600 µm. Increasing VPDair increases the VMD, Dv90, SPAN and the percentage of sprayed volume comprised by droplets larger than 600 µm.

ABSTRACT The tomato is one of the main crops in Brazil. In large-scale cultivation, pesticides are applied to the plant to prevent the direct or indirect action of animal or vegetable life, aiming at higher productivity and better quality fruit. However, the products, if used incorrectly, may affect the health of workers involved in the activity. A prototype of a self-propelled sprayer, remotely controlled and monitored via radio signals, was therefore developed to be used in tomato crops, thus minimising worker contact with the chemical substances used when spraying. The basic prototype comprises an agricultural mini-tractor, a motorised pneumatic sprayer (atomiser) and a set of electronic and mechanical sensors and actuators, which allow the assembly to be controlled remotely and images captured by a video camera to be viewed on a tablet. After development, the principal dimension, weight and operational characteristics of the prototype were identified; the prototype was also used for spraying ten tomato plants in the crop, with seven different points being observed for each plant. The results were analysed statistically, giving the following coefficients of variation: 15.13% for spray coverage, 18.70% for droplet density and 16.68% for product deposition on the folioles. Based on these values, it was concluded that the development of a remotely controlled and monitored self-propelled sprayer prototype, and its use in spraying tomato crops, were viable.