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Reactions of Neonicotinoid Insecticides with Hydroxyl Radicals

February 19, 2020, 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm
Location Science Hall - 102, the Sokol Room
Posted InCollege of Science and Mathematics

Dr. Mychel Varner, Assistant Professor, Physical Chemistry Iona College, presents this seminar.

About the Seminar

Neonicotinoid insecticides are designed to be harmful to pests that damage crops, but their use may have unintended consequences. We examine possible reactions of neonicotinoids (meaning like nicotine) with molecular compounds that are present in our atmosphere. When insecticides are present on surfaces, for example when applied to crops, they will be exposed to reactive chemical species from the atmosphere such as hydroxyl radicals. These surface reactions may lead different to products when compared to those taking place in solution. Two types of reactions were studied computationally, hydroxyl radical addition and hydrogen abstraction, for three neonicotinoids imidacloprid, nitenpyram, and thiamethoxam.

Pizza will be served before the seminar!