Understanding the factors affecting pesticide dislodgeable foliar residues

Pesticide dislodgeable foliar residues (DFRs) - the residue fraction which can easily transfer from plant material to other surfaces such as human skin and clothing - presents a risk to those working in the agricultural sector. Data on these residues are used to help evaluate and mitigate occupational risks. Existing research has shown that various factors affect the amount of DRF such as the chemicals characteristics, application rate and environmental condition. It is also believed that plant architecture such as leaf shape, structure and surface type (e.g. waxy and hairy) also plays a role but little research has been done on this aspect. This 4 year programme will investigate this aspect and will ultimately lead to a PhD for the researcher recruited to undertake the work.