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Chemistry and Biochemistry of Plant Protection Products
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:28:49
Abstract
Plant Protection Products (PPP) are stillindispensable to protect crops against damageby pests. The main principles of chemistry andbiochemistry of PPP active ingredients arepresented: mode of action and structure-activityrelationships, selectivity, mechanisms of resistanceand side effects. These principles are illustrated intypical 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, residues in edible parts, possible side effects and environmental fate.
Content
Following a brief introduction on hows and whys of pesticide registration, the most important herbicide, fungicide 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 (pdf-files on CD ROM).
Literature
A list of references is provided.
General Information
- Language
- German
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- end-of-semester examination
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture | Chemistry and Biochemistry of Plant Protection Products |
|
2 h weekly |