Battelle brings more than 30 years of experience in characterizing liquid synthetic and biological active ingredient mixtures. We conduct controlled studies using current U.S. Environmental Protection Agency protocols and use the AgDisp™ modeling program to determine droplet size and model spray drift. Our studies are conducted under stringent quality systems for U.S. and EU product registration, including ISO, ASTM and Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
Battelle has two facilities where we can determine droplet size testing or design novel studies in a wind-controlled environment. Our unique facilities eliminate the need for expensive field testing for drift deposition, volatility and other applications.
Battelle uses a wide range of collectors including monofilament string, artificial foliage, rotary samplers, cascade impactors, impingers and an Aerodynamic Particle Sizer (APS 3321). Collectors can be positioned at multiple locations up to approximately 130 feet (40 meters) downwind of the sprayer. Collected samples are analyzed following established procedures and can be customized as needed.
Indoor Facility: Environmentally Controlled Wind Tunnel
Our wind tunnel is constructed inside a facility with temperature and environmental controls. The working section of the wind tunnel is 6’ x 6’ with maximum wind speeds of roughly 15 mph. The unique engineering design allows for shorter wind tunnel length and better temperature control, resulting in more accurate data.
Outdoor Facility: Ambient Breeze Tunnel
Battelle’s one-of-a-kind spray testing facility, located outside of Columbus, Ohio, is approximately 150’ long with a 20’ x 20’ cross section. The facility offers the flexibility to quickly test full-scale sprayers under a range of conditions in a wind-controlled environment. Wind speeds ranging from 2 mph up to 180 mph can be locally generated to simulate ground-based and aerial applications. We can also add simulated crop cover to the facility.