Spray quality for different atomizable liquids

Abstract

Agrochemical spray drift in boom sprayers applications represents a key challenge due to its negative impacts on the environment, human health, and the efficiency of agrochemical use. In this study, a computational tool was developed to predict the spray quality of different formulations, taking into account both droplet generation and their transport in the environment.
The influence of operating pressure, nozzle type, and the use of adjuvants on spray drift, droplet evaporation prior to deposition, and application time were evaluated. Simulation results indicated that nozzle selection and operating pressure are the most influential factors affecting spray quality. Specifically, increasing the operating pressure led to smaller average droplet sizes, which in turn resulted in greater evaporation and increased drift, particularly at short distances (1–2 meters) from the boom.
The effect of adjuvants was found to depend on the used nozzle type. However, their influence was less significant than that produced by the operational variables. These findings highlight the importance of selecting appropriate nozzles and operating pressures to reduce product loss and minimize environmental impact.
The developed tool provides a practical and efficient approach to optimizing agricultural spray applications, supporting informed decision-making aimed at sustainability and precision agriculture.