Formulation reaction when phase separation occurs

A formulation can contain more than one active ingredient to increase the efficacy range per application. This reduces labor time, because fewer sprajdngs are necessary than with separate spra3dngs of single pesticide formulations. A similar result is achieved when several products are mixed directly before application (tank mixes). However, the products of the different formulations must be compatible. For instance, oil- and water-based products cannot be mixed and would lead to phase separation. Chemical incompatibility can occur as result of reaction of acids with bases or hydrolysis of pH sensitive compounds. 

The discontinuity in the DSC reaction peak that leads to the second maximum is believed to be caused by the onset of phase separation. Visual observations of specimens (extended formulation) during DSC scans revealed that the first indication of opacity occurs slightly (within 3 ) after the onset of this discontinuity. Small samples and slow heating (5°C/min) were used when making these observations to reduce the time lag between thermal changes in the sample and detection by the DSC. 

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