Agrochemicals: Key benefits of low-naphthalene aromatic solvents

In the agrochemical industry, the choice of solvents plays a crucial role not only in product performance but also in safety, environmental impact, and regulatory compliance. Low-naphthalene aromatic solvents are increasingly favored by manufacturers for their better environmental profile, reduced toxicity and ability to meet strict regulations. In this article, we will explore the key benefits of these solvents and why they are becoming essential in modern agrochemical formulations. 

Manufacturers of agrochemical products typically prefer aromatic solvents with low naphthalene content primarily for reasons related to safety, regulatory compliance and environmental impact, rather than purely on performance grounds. The following benefits are a result of a review of low-naphthalene aromatic solvents versus naphthalene-containing aromatic solvents only.

Improved safety and environmental profile

Greater environmental credentials: Many countries regulate the levels of naphthalene in products due to its potential environmental impact. Naphthalene can persist in soil and water, leading to pollution concerns. Lower naphthalene content can help agrochemical products meet stricter environmental standards and reduce ecological harm.  

Reduced ecotoxicological: Low-naphthalene aromatic solvents are less toxic and less likely to bioaccumulate in the environment, thus reducing their ecotoxicological impact on ecosystems and lowering the risk of long-term contamination.

Reduced bioaccumulation and persistence: Naphthalene is persistent in the environment and can bioaccumulate in living organisms, posing long-term risks to wildlife and the food chain. Over time, these persistent chemicals can lead to detrimental effects on biodiversity.  

Reduced toxicity: Naphthalene is known to be more toxic to humans and animals compared to other components of aromatic solvents. Lower naphthalene levels in aromatic solvents help reduce health risks, including skin irritation, respiratory issues, and potential long-term carcinogenic effects. 

Regulatory compliance

Meeting safety regulations: Many regulatory bodies, such as the EPA (United States) and REACH (European Union), have stringent limits on the use of naphthalene in products due to its health and environmental risks. Lowering naphthalene levels ensures that manufacturers can meet these regulatory requirements and avoid penalties.

Future proofing: By adopting low and ultra-low-naphthalene aromatic solvents, agrochemical manufacturers ensure compliance not just with current regulatory standards like EPA and REACH but also with the growing global regulatory trends. This strategic move helps them prepare for stricter environmental and safety regulations that are likely to emerge across global markets. It enhances product sustainability, safety, and long-term viability, positioning companies to meet evolving industry standards and consumer expectations. 

Improved worker and consumer perception 

Better marketability: Agrochemical products with lower levels of harmful substances like naphthalene are seen as safer and more sustainable, which can improve market perception and consumer trust. In turn, this can lead to better adoption rates among farmers and agricultural users. Using a low-naphthalene aromatic solvent gives agrochemical manufacturers a greater degree of freedom in formulating their products. 

Greater health and safety: A key advantage for agrochemical manufacturers in using low-naphthalene aromatic solvents is the significant improvement in occupational health and safety for both workers and end-users. While low-naphthalene aromatic solvents reduce exposure to recognised harmful compounds like naphthalene, lowering long-term health risks like respiratory issues, skin irritation, and potential carcinogenic effects, the primary benefit lies in reducing chronic exposure risks. This helps ensure a safer working environment over time, especially in high-exposure settings. 

Improved odour: Naphthalene has a strong, distinctive odour, which can be unpleasant for workers handling the chemicals or farmers applying the products. Reducing naphthalene content minimises the odour, making the product more user-friendly. 

Product performance

The performance characteristics between low-naphthalene aromatic solvents and their naphthalene-containing counterparts show little differences. This is a good thing, as it allows manufacturers to adjust the naphthalene content in their crop protection and agrochemicals without compromising on effectiveness.  

Low-naphthalene and naphthalene-containing aromatic solvents are both used as components in agrochemical formulations and contribute to:  

• Stability: Aromatic solvents offer very good stability in emulsifiable concentrates (ECs), oil dispersions (OD), suspension concentrates (SCs), and microemulsions (MEs). This reduces issues like sedimentation, phase separation, or clumping in agrochemical formulations, leading to a more stable and consistent product over time and extended shelf life. 
• Solubility: Aromatic solvents have been found to have excellent solubility properties, even in the most sensitive agrochemical formulations.  

Conclusion

Low-naphthalene aromatic solvents offer agrochemical manufacturers a clear advantage by enhancing safety, reducing environmental risks, and meeting stringent regulatory requirements without compromising product performance. Their lower toxicity, reduced bioaccumulation, and compliance with global standards make them a future-proof solution in an evolving market focused on sustainability. By choosing low-naphthalene options, manufacturers not only protect ecosystems and human health but also improve marketability and consumer trust in their products.

Learn more:

• A sustainable agriculture: The advantages of Caromax^®
• What should you look for when buying aromatic solvents in the agricultural industry?
• Aromatic Solvents – 70 years of Expertise