Innovations in semiochemical formulations

Abstract

The potential of semiochemicals for the targeted behavior manipulation of insects has been known for a long time. Their low impact on non-target organisms makes them interesting candidates for use in insect control for various applications such as agricultural and forestry pest control, stored-product protection and protection against hematophagous insects. Due to their high volatility and chemical instability against UV light and oxidation, their use often remains limited. Tailor-made formulations can protect semiochemicals from environmental factors and can improve release performance and duration triggering a desired reaction in the target insect at the place of application. This review provides an overview of recent formulation types developed for insect behavior manipulation by semiochemicals, with emphasis on formulation aspects and formulation potential for slow and controlled release. The focus was set on inventions and studies aiming to elucidate material and formulation properties that affect the semiochemical release and, with specific attention, enable targeted release manipulation.