Structure-activity-residue relationships of alkylphenol polyoxyethylene non-ionic surfactants and MSMA

The influence of alkylphenol polyoxyethylene non-ionic surfactants on the distribution pattern of MSMA (sodium hydrogen methylarsonate) was studied using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray microanalysis elementmapping techniques. Surfactant concentrations and lipophilic–hydrophilic constitution influenced phytotoxicity and residue patterns. Surprisingly, the percentage of leaf surface covered bore little correlation to phytotoxicity.