A closed loop system improves phosphine fumigation in stored grain facilities

Tuesday, November 12, 2013: 1:42 PM
Meeting Room 18 A (Austin Convention Center)
Edmond Bonjour , Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
Carol Jones , Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
Randy Beeby , Field and Research Services Unit, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK
Phosphine fumigation can be improved by using a closed loop fumigation (CLF) system.  A correctly installed CLF system will use less fumigant, save on labor costs after the initial installation, cause less worker exposure which will lead to less health costs, and improve insect control.  In a test at a concrete facility that was divided into two sections where one side received conventional treatment and the other side had a CLF system, phosphine levels reached over 2,000 ppm on the CLF side and only a maximum of 100 ppm on the conventionally treated side.  Sealing and using a CLF system will save you money and result in better control of insect pests.