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751-1492-00L 2 Credits
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Chemistry and Biochemistry of Pesticides

Chemie/Biochemie Pflanzenschutzmittel

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Markus Müller
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:02:23

Abstract

Plant Protection Products (PPP) are indispensable to protect crops against damage by pests. The main principles of chemistry and biochemistry of PPP active ingredients are presented: mode of action and structure-activity relationships, selectivity, mechanisms of resistance and side effects. These principles are illustrated in typical use scenarios such as fungicide use in vine.

Objective

The structures and modes of action of modern pesticides are presented. The structure-activity relationships lead to considerations of actual use conditions in crops such as weed control in corn and possible side effects and environmental fate.

Content

Following a brief introduction on hows and whys of pesticide registration, the most important herbicides, fungicides and insecticides active ingredients are presented together with their respective modes of action, questions of selectivity and biochemical insights on resistance development. Typical use scenarios are utilised allowing a discussion of advantages and disadvantages of different plant protection strategies, such as use of selective vs. contact herbicides in corn or the necessity of combining protective with systemic fungicides in vine. Furthermore, side effects, residue problems and environmental fate are also topics covered.

Resources

Lecture Notes

An e-script is available.

Literature

List of references.

General Information

Language
German
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Chemie/Biochemie Pflanzenschutzmittel
  • Mon 15:15-17:00 (NW B 81)
2 h weekly

Offered In