Dazomet

Applications

Dazomet is a chemical used to kill pests that inhibit plant growth through gaseous degradation. Dazomet is used as a soil sterilant on a variety of sites such as golf courses, nurseries, turf sites, and potting soils. Dazomet is used for soil sterilization as an alternative to methyl bromide. Although less effective it is still used to kill pests because of its comparatively lower toxicity. Dazomet is applied to wet soil, which causes dazomet itself to decompose into a gaseous form, which is what actively controls pests. The decomposition of dazomet releases methyl isothiocyanate (MITC) a gas toxic to pests that would prevent or kill plant growth.

Synthesis

Dazomet is synthesized from carbon disulfide (CS₂) and diluted methylamine (CH₃NH₂). After stirring for 1-2 hours, an oily substance is formed, which is the intermediate methylcarbamodithioic acid (HS₂CNHCH₃). Then, formaldehyde (CH₂O) is added to the intermediate to form the fine granule dazomet.

Toxicology and safety

Dazomet is irritating to the eyes and its degradation product, MITC, is a dermal sensitizer. Dazomet is very toxic to aquatic organisms, and also acutely toxic to mammals. Exposure to dazomet can occur through several means; interaction with unincorporated granules, inhalation of it decomposition product, MITC, and/or water runoff.

Mass Spectrum

The molecular ion peak of dazomet is at 162 m/z. There are two major fragment peaks, one at 89 m/z and one at 42 m/z. The fragment peak at 89 m/z represents the loss of MITC, which is the major, gaseous degrade of dazomet.

Patents

Patent #US5989597

Ambrose Rajamannan was the inventor of the novel process of continuously and instantaneously sterilizing soil using a water-activated fumigant. Dazomet is one water-activated fumigant that could be used. This process ensures 100% activation of the fumigant. Therefore, less fumigant would be needed to ensure that the soil would be completely sterilized.

Patent #CN1543787

See under "Synthesis".