What happens to pesticide droplets in conditions of high humidity?

In conditions of high humidity, pesticide droplets tend to absorb moisture from the surrounding air, which can cause them to swell and become larger. This is due to the increased water content in the air, facilitating the droplets to take on additional liquid. Larger droplets are beneficial in aerial application as they are less likely to drift away from the target area and can provide better coverage on the intended surfaces.

Understanding how humidity affects droplet size is critical for pesticide application efficiency, as it influences both the deposition on crop surfaces and the potential for off-target movement. In contrast, in low humidity conditions, droplets may evaporate more quickly, leading to a decrease in size, which can increase the risk of drift and reduce the effectiveness of the application.