Other Drift Reduction Technologies

Boom Shields
Shields placed on one or both sides of the boom may reduce the potential for drift, but boom shields also have potential problems. Some shields do not allow the operator to view the nozzles to determine if they are operating properly. Solid shields operated at higher speeds may act as an obstruction and force air to flow over the boom which creates turbulence on the backside which could pick up small droplets and carry them into the path of the wind. If the sprayer is traveling with the wind at the side, spray can be pushed out the downwind side of the boom. Properly designed shields, operated at moderate speeds, may reduce drift potential, but the droplet size that the sprayer produces will have the biggest effect on the drift potential of the sprayer.

Drift Retardants
Many drift retardant products are on the market, but do not assume that one product will eliminate all pesticide drift. Some products breakdown after a period of recirculation through the pump and agitation. Some work well with one active ingredient but not with others. Some may affect the performance of surfactants and other adjuvants that are formulated with the pesticide product. And some distort the pattern in air-induction nozzles. Approach the use of drift retardants with an understanding that each product must be evaluated in each situation.

Electrostatic Sprayers
Electrostatic spraying systems are designed to electrically charge the spray solution so that each spray droplet will be attracted to the plants. Although this technology has been on the market for some time, modifications to the charging mechanism have generated renewed interest. Appropriate droplet size is still important. If small droplets are moved by air currents, even the charged droplets may not come close enough to the plants to be strongly attracted.

Authored by Jim Wilson, PhD  
South Dakota State University