Development of Trichoderma sp formulations in encapsulated granules (CG) and evaluation of conidia shelf-life

The genus Trichoderma is widely studied worldwide as a biological control agent since the 1960s, but although the many studies, there are still many difficulties in the production and commercialization of this product in large scale. The main problem is the lack of suitable formulations, which ensure the viability, and efficiency of the biological control agent to their application in the field, what hinder the expansion and use of bio-pesticides in conventional agriculture. This study evaluates the development of Trichoderma sp. formulations in encapsulated granules (CG) and the continued viability of the conidia during storage. A fractional factorial design 2(5-1) was employed to optimize the formulation conditions using an ionic gelling method for producing encapsulated granules containing sodium alginate matrix modified with different polymers. Granules characterization by FTIR and thermogravimetric analysis showed that there was interaction between the alginate matrix and polymers used in the formulation of the encapsulated granules. Which ensured stability of formulations, keeping survival of Trichoderma during the steps of production and storage. After 14 months, the samples stored at 28 degrees C showed viable cell concentrations above 10(6) CFU/g, is a very relevant result, mainly when compared to other authors.