Microbial bioinsecticide formulations - addressing critical issues

Developing a proper formulation is a necessary component for commercialization of entomopathogenic microbes as biological insecticides.  Numerous combinations of pathogens, ingredients, processes, formulation types and application environments must be considered when developing biopesticide formulations.  Suitable combinations of formulation technologies can be identified when key factors are addressed.  Formulation research generally focuses on biological (viability, efficacy, etc.) and physical (form, mixing, application, etc.) aspects of potential biopesticide products.  Occasionally, critical issues for application or pest control can be addressed by unique formulation applications such as pressed tablets, foams or gels.    Production and formulation tend to go hand-in-hand and continued advancement in both areas is necessary for successful development of current or newly identified microbes as bioinsecticides.  As for formulations, diligent reviews of new techniques, processes, and ingredients, or those adapted from other industries, requires constant scrutiny to identify those that are suitable for development as microbial-based insecticides.