Influence of biotic and abiotic factors on dissipating metalaxyl in soil

Under laboratory condition, dissipation of metalaxyl in sterile and non-sterile soils, its sorption behaviour and fate in presence of light have been studied. The half-life value of metalaxyl was found in the range of 36-73 d in non-sterile soil. 5.3-14.7% dissipation was observed due to abiotic factors other than light. Metalaxyl was found photostable in soil showing half-life of 188-502 h under simulated sunlight. In adsorption study, a non-linear relationship between concentration of metalaxyl and its adsorption into soils was observed. Estimated k(OC) value increased as organic carbon content decreased. Adsorption and desorption k(D) values ranged between 53.5 and 151.1. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.