Simazine is an herbicide of the triazine class. The compound is used to control broad-leaved and Annual plant grasses.
Simazine's HRAC classification is Group C1, Group C (global, Aus), Group 5 (numeric), as it inhibits photosynthesis at photosystem II.
Preparation
Simazine may be prepared from cyanuric chloride and a concentrated solution of
ethyl amine (at least 50 percent by number) in water.
The reaction is highly
exothermic and is therefore best carried out below 10 °C.
Cyanuric chloride decomposes at high temperatures into hydrogen chloride and hydrogen cyanide, both of which are highly toxic by inhalation.
Properties and uses
Simazine is an off-white crystalline compound which is sparingly soluble in water. It is a member of the triazine-derivative herbicides, and was widely used as a residual non-selective herbicide, but is now banned in European Union states.
Like
atrazine, a related triazine herbicide, it acts by inhibiting
photosynthesis. It remains active in the soil for two to seven months or longer after application.
See also
External links
