Fumigation with phosphine - a perspective

Phosphine evolved from metal phosphide preparations play a major role in the control of stored grain pests mainly because of cost factor and non-availability of suitable alternatives. Achieving target concentration is dependent upon dosage applied, exposure period and standard of gas tightness. MLCL gas proof covers of 150 GSM/200 GSM are considered more suitable for good phosphine retention as compared to HDPE and LDPE. Monitoring phosphine concentration is very important to ascertain the achievement of target concentration and to predict success of treatment before termination of fumigation. Application of improved fumigation standards, following gas tightness and monitoring of phosphine concentration can definitely help in delaying further development of insect resistance. This calls for active collaboration of industry, researchers and users of phosphine to prolong effective life of phosphine.