Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Is EDN FUMIGAS the same as Cyanide?

  • EDN FUMIGAS is the tradename of Ethanedinitrile – which is also known as Cyanogen.
  • Cyanogen is from the family of chemicals known as Cyanates. Cyanates are typically very toxic compounds.
  • Hydrogen Cyanide is also from this family of chemicals.
  • Cyanates are naturally occurring compounds and can be found in many everyday foods, for example, almonds.
  • EDN FUMIGAS is no more dangerous than Chloropicrin or Methyl Bromide when it comes to toxicity. They just have very different modes of action, meaning the way in which they effect the human body. It breaks down in the body and releases and does not accumulate like other chemicals and fumigants.

Is there the potential of any residues in our crops after fumigation with EDN FUMIGAS?

  • Absolutely NO. Extensive trial work globally has shown that EDN FUMIGAS breaks down in soil extremely fast, within hours, to form ammonia and nitrate which in turn fertilise the soil.
  • We knew this was going to be a point of contention – and be used by our competitors – hence why Draslovka invested heavily in this research in order to have undeniable and validated data to support us.
  • In saying that, crops are very susceptible to extremely low levels of cyanides, and therefore the plant will die immediately upon planting if the plant-back times are not adhered to. There is zero possibility of residue uptake.

Is EDN safe to apply? Why do you wear so much Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

  • EDN FUMIGAS is rapid acting fumigant which is gaseous upon injection – this is very different to other products like 1,3-Dichloropropene or Chloropicrin which are liquids.
  • As we have moved through the trial phase of our product, the PPE continued to be reviewed. However, there is always a fine balance between safety, comfort, and practicality which must be taken into consideration.
  • As you would expect – with the increase in focus on Workplace Health & Safety we faced many restrictions which other chemicals and fumigants have not had to endure – we refer to this as ‘grandfather rights’.
  • EDN is highly toxic, and also at higher pressure than other fumigants.
  • For commercialisation the required PPE is listed below, and we strongly recommend the use of all of this PPE.
    • Full Face Filter Mask
    • Long Sleeves & Long Pants
    • Closed Toed Shoes
    • Gloves

Why do we have to use TIF Barrier Film?

  • EDN FUMIGAS is very volatile – meaning that it moves quickly from the soil – so you need to trap it for the highest efficacy to be achieved.
  • Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is the standard film of choice in Australia. However, due to the nature of EDN with it’s high volatility and small molecule size – EDN passes through LDPE as if there was no film there at all…
  • Extensive testing has shown that specific types of TIF barrier film are impermeable to EDN – meaning that we are able to trap the EDN in the soil.
  • Draslovka Services has been working closely with barrier film manufacturers globally – not just on permeability testing, but also on pricing – and are now able to offer a low permeability TIF barrier film in 40 micron for a comparable price per square to that of LDPE…
  • You will be able to source this TIF barrier film directly from Draslovka Services Pty Ltd or Agricultural Solutions Pty Ltd.
  • PLEASE NOTE: According to the product label – EDN can only be applied using Draslovka approved barrier film.

What is on the proposed label of EDN FUMIGAS for soil application?

CROP

PEST

APPLICATION RATE

CRITICAL COMMENTS

Strawberry runners, strawberries, cucurbits tomatoes and ornamentals (gerbera)

Soil borne Pathogens:

Bipolaris soroikiniana, Fusarium acuminatum, Fusarium oxysporum, Phytophthora cactorum, Phytophthora cryptogea Pythium sulcatum, Pythium ultimum, Phytophthora cactorum, Rhizoctonia fragariae, Rhizoctonia solani, Schlerotium rolfsi

Nematodes:

Meloidogyne spp. Steinernema spp.

Weeds:

Poa annua, Spregula arvensis, Agrostis tenuis, Raphanus raphanistrum Conyza Canadensis, Lolium sp. Solanum nigrum, Amaranthus retroflexus, Portulaca oleracea, Orobanche aegyptiaca, Cyperus rotundus

Chemigation:

30 g/m2 (300 kg/ha) per treated area using drip irrigation

Shank injection:

50 g/m2 (500 kg/ha)

Pre-plant treatment only.

Particular attention should be given to the correct application method.

Use the Draslovka approved mixing system for the application of EDN Fumigas via chemigation method.

Shank injection should be at a minimum depth of 20 cm. The soil should be moist and aerated.

Irrigate the soil and keep sufficiently moist prior to treatment

All soil fumigation treatments must be covered by low mass transfer coefficient (LMTC) barrier films approved by Draslovka prior to use to minimise gas emissions.

Can I purchase and apply the chemical myself?

  • No – for at least the first two years of commercial application, EDN FUMIGAS will be applied only under the supervision of Draslovka Services Application Specialists. This is to protect the integrity of the product, and ensure that we are getting the best results possible. Our teams will be working closely with all end-users.
  • This Draslovka Application Support Service is provided free of charge for the first two years of commercial application in order to train and assist those end-users in how to apply the product safely and effectively. Of course beyond the first two years of commercial application, Draslovka Services will continue to support through regular maintenance, troubleshooting, and general product support.

Our other chemical suppliers provide field based installation and maintenance services, what support can I expect from Draslovka Services?

  • Draslovka Services is made up of a unique team having cross-collaborative skills including agriculture, regulatory affairs, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, application development and customisation, fitting and turning, field maintenance, hydraulics and pneumatic expertise – on top of this, risk management and risk mitigation – all of these skills enable us to support our products to create a seamless experience for the end-user.

Speak to one of our specialists.