HK1136945B - Composite material including a thermoplastic polymer, a pest food material and a pesticide - Google Patents

Description

Composite material comprising thermoplastic polymer, pest food material and pesticide

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present invention claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No.60/876,351, filed 2006, 12, 21, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present application relates to a composite material suitable for the stomata of wood-destroying pest species and pesticidal against pest species. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present application relates to composite materials consisting of a thermoplastic polymer, a food material for pests and a pesticide.

Background

Protection of wooden structures from damage caused by pests has been an area of particular interest for many years and removal of pests from areas occupied by humans, livestock and crops has long been a challenge. Pests of frequent interest include various types of insects and rodents. Subterranean termites are a particularly troublesome type of pest that can cause serious damage to wooden structures. Various solutions have been proposed to exterminate termites and certain other harmful insect species and pests of non-insect species. In one approach, pest control relies on the blanket application of chemical pesticides in the area to be protected. However, due to environmental regulations, this approach becomes less advantageous.

Recently, advances have been made to provide targeted delivery of pesticide chemicals. U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,090 to Su is an example. Another example of termite control is SENTICON from Yinong, Dow, U.S. with a business address of 9330 Zionsville Lou, IndianaTermite Colony Elimination System (Termite Colony Elimination System). In the system, a number of units are at least partially disposed in a ground surrounding a dwelling to be protected, each of the units having termite edible material. The units are routinely inspected by a pest control facility for termite presence and the inspection data is recorded with reference to a unique barcode label associated with each unit. If termites are found in a particular unit, baits containing a slow-acting insecticide intended to be brought back to the termite nest are installed to eradicate the colony.

There is a continuing need for further advances in pest control, pest-resistant structural materials, and related technology, and there is a need for the development of new technologies that are more reliable and/or cost effective in preventing the destruction of wooden structures and eradicating termites or other pests.

Disclosure of Invention

In one aspect, the present application provides a pest control device comprising a bait operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more species of pest and a cavity at least partially enclosing the bait. The bait comprises a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of the pests contained within the matrix, and a pesticide toxic to the pests contained within the matrix.

In another aspect, the present application provides a pest control system that includes at least two pest control devices, each of the two pest control devices being positioned apart from the other within an area to be protected from one or more pests. At least one of the pest control devices includes a bait operable to be consumed or moved by a pest and comprising a composite material including a plastic structural substrate, a cellulosic food material contained within the substrate suitable for the appetite of the pest, and a pesticide contained within the substrate that is toxic to the pest.

In yet another aspect, the present application provides a method comprising: (1) providing a pest control device comprising an insecticidal bait for one or more species of pest; and (2) installing the device in an area to be protected from pests. The insecticidal bait comprises a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of pests contained within the matrix, and an insecticide toxic to pests contained within the matrix.

In yet another aspect, the present application provides a method of making a composite material comprising:

(1) providing a mixture of a thermoplastic polymer having a softening or melting point of about 220 ℃ or less, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of at least one wood-destroying pest species, and a pesticide toxic to the pest; (2) forming the mixture to provide a workpiece having a desired shape; and (3) cooling the workpiece to a temperature below the softening point or melting point of the plastic to provide a solid composite article. The term "molten" as used herein means a state of thermoplastic polymer in which the polymer is completely molten, partially molten, or sufficiently softened or tacky that the polymer can be formed into a plastic matrix by, for example, extrusion or molding, followed by cooling. Similarly, the term "melting point" as used herein means the temperature at which a particular polymer or mixture of polymers melts, softens or becomes tacky and includes the glass transition temperature of an amorphous polymer. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the melting point of a particular polymer or polymer mixture can be altered by contacting the polymer or polymer mixture with a particular solvent and/or other additives. In one embodiment, the mixture is formed by extrusion.

In another aspect of the present application, there is provided a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of at least one wood-destroying pest species contained within the matrix, and a pesticide toxic to the pest contained within the matrix. The composite material is useful for consumption or movement by pests; and the plastic structural matrix comprises a thermoplastic polymer having a melting point of about 220 ℃ or less.

The present application also provides a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material contained within the matrix suitable for the appetite of at least one wood-destroying pest species, and a pesticide contained within the matrix that is toxic to the pest; wherein the composite material is useful for consumption or movement by pests and the plastic structural matrix comprises a thermoplastic polymer comprising a thermoplastic cellulose derivative.

In yet another aspect of the present application, there is provided a composite material comprising a rigid plastic structural matrix comprising a thermoplastic polymer, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of at least one wood-destroying pest species contained within the matrix, and a pesticide toxic to the pest contained within the matrix, wherein the composite material is operable to be consumed or displaced by the pest.

In yet another aspect of the present application, there is provided an extruded wood substitute material comprising a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of pests contained within the matrix, and a pesticide toxic to pests contained within the matrix.

Further particular embodiments, forms, features and aspects of the present application may become apparent from the detailed description and drawings provided herein.

Drawings

FIG. 1 is a diagram of a pest control system including a plurality of pest control devices.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of selected elements of the system of FIG. 1 in operation.

FIG. 3 is an exploded partial sectional view of a pest monitoring assembly of one embodiment of a pest control device.

FIG. 4 is an exploded partial cross-sectional view of the pest monitoring assembly of FIG. 3 taken along a plane of view perpendicular to the plane of view of FIG. 3.

Fig. 5 is a top view of a communication circuit subassembly portion of the pest monitoring assembly shown in fig. 3 and 4.

FIG. 6 is an exploded assembly view of the pest control device having the pest monitoring assembly of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is an exploded assembly view of the pest control device with the pesticide delivery assembly replacing the pest monitoring assembly of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the first experimental apparatus described in the examples.

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a second experimental set-up described in the examples.

Figure 10 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 11 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 12 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 13 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 14 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 15 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 16 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 17 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 18 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 19 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 20 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Figure 21 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 7.

Fig. 22 is a graph showing the copulation transfer survival data from the experiment reported in example 8.

Fig. 23 is a graph showing the copulation transfer survival data from the experiment reported in example 8.

Fig. 24 is a graph showing the copulation transfer survival data from the experiment reported in example 8.

Fig. 25 is a graph showing the copulation transfer survival data from the experiment reported in example 8.

Fig. 26 is a graph showing consumption data from the experiment reported in example 9.

Figure 27 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 9.

Fig. 28 is a graph showing survival data from experiments reported in example 9.

Fig. 29 is a graph showing data from the reported experiments of example 10 on average days to extinction.

Figure 30 is a graph showing consumption data from the experiment reported in example 10.

Fig. 31 is a graph showing consumption data from the experiment reported in example 10.

Detailed Description

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention described herein, reference will now be made to the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of any invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the illustrated embodiments, and any further applications of the principles as illustrated and described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

A composite material for delivering an insecticide to a wood-destroying pest includes a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material suitable for the stomata of at least one wood-destroying pest species, and an insecticide toxic to the pest. The term "wood-destroying pest" as used herein refers to an insect or other pest that destroys the structural integrity of wood by penetrating into or consuming the wood. Examples include, but are not limited to, termites, carpenter ants, wood bees, and other wood boring or cellulose consuming organisms. The composite materials described herein are manufactured without the need for material processing at high temperatures that would disrupt the function of the pesticide. The term "pesticide" as used herein refers to a compound that is toxic to at least one target wood-destroying pest species. The plastic structural matrix of the composite material is comprised of a thermoplastic polymer that is processed to a shape that provides sufficient strength and structural integrity for the desired end use of the composite material. The pesticide retains its biological activity when present within the composite material and produces a desired result after the material is ingested by or contacted with a pest. The polymeric material included in the composite material can be processed using relatively low temperature extrusion or molding processes and provides structural integrity to the composite article, good acceptance by target wood-destroying pests (i.e., palatability by the target wood-destroying pest), without rendering the processed pesticide (including the temperature sensitive pesticide) ineffective. In one embodiment, the plastic structural matrix of the composite material is rigid.

In a particular embodiment, the cellulosic food material is selected based on known or determined attractiveness to the particular pest of interest. For example, when the composite material is used as a bait for a certain target pest species, the composite material can be prepared using a cellulosic food material that is a particularly preferred food for the target pest species. The cellulosic food material will therefore attract members of the target pest species and be expected to be consumed or displaced by the pest species, which will result in the simultaneous consumption or displacement of the pesticide present in the composite material, thereby producing the desired pesticidal effect. The food material can be composed wholly or partly of edible plastic material. Alternatively, the food material can consist entirely or partially of a non-plastic cellulosic material. In a particular embodiment, the food material is pure cellulose, such as alpha cellulose, beta cellulose, or gamma cellulose. One suitable example is preferably structural cellulose (PTC). In another embodiment, the food material is wood or a wood derivative, such as wood chips, wood fibers, sawdust, cardboard, paper, or other material suitable for the stomata of the target wood rot species. Other cellulosic food materials that can be used include microcrystalline cellulose, examples of which are provided in U.S. Pat. No.6,416,752, incorporated by reference, and modified polymeric cellulose-based materials such as METHOCEL, available from The Dow Chemical Company, Midland, MichiganOr ETHOCEL

Insecticides are insecticides that are effective in killing pests that ingest or contact the insecticide. Some of the insecticides disclosed herein that can be used in the composite include, but are not limited to, the following:

1, 2-dichloropropane, 1, 3-dichloropropane,

avermectin, acephate, acequinome, acetamiprid, housefly's phosphorus, acetoprole, flupropathrin, acrylonitrile, boll-bell, aldicarb, chloromononaphthalene, allethrin, aloamicin, methomyl, cis-cypermethrin, alpha-ecdysone, cyhalofop, fluvalinate (amidoflumumet), methomyl, dichlorvon, methamidophos, pyroxene, arsenic trioxide, ethoprophos, azadirachtin, pirimiphos-methyl, glutethion-ethyl, glutethion-methyl, azobenzene, azotin, azophos,

barium hexafluorosilicate, pyrethrum piperita, clothianidin (benclothiaz), bendiocarb, benfuracarb, benomyl, benoxafos, bensulide, benxate, beta cyfluthrin, beta cypermethrin, hydrazide, bifenthrin, binapacryl, bioallethrin, biological hypomethylester acetate (bioethanenomethrin), biological permethrin, bistriflurea, borax, boric acid, bromophenene phosphorus, bromoDDT, bromocriptine, bromophos, ethylbromophos, bromopropylate, metrocarb, oryzanol, bendiocarb, buthiofos, butanone, butoxycarb, ketobutacarb,

cadusafos, calcium arsenate, calcium polysulphide, toxaphene, clomiprocarb, carbaryl, carbosulfide, carbon tetrachloride, thiophosphoryl, carbosulfan, badan, chlorfenapyr, chlorantraniliprole, chlorofenapyr, borneol pellet, chlordane, chlordimedone, chlorfenamidine, phosphorus oxychloride, chlorfenapyr, miticide alcohol, miticide ester, dipterene, chlorfenvinphos, chlorfluazuron, clomephos, clomiphos, chloroform, chlorfenapyr, sandrocarb, propylbutamol, chlorfenapyr, pyridalyl (chlorprazophos), chlorpyrifos-methyl, thiobac, chromafenozide, guaethrin I, guaethrin II, resmethrin, dinotefuran, clotrimazole, copper arsenite, copper arsenate, copper naphthenate, copper oleate, coumaphos, crotophos, clobuton A & B (A & clenbuterol B), Foster phosphorus, cryolite, cyanophos, cyenophos, echinacea, cycloprothrin, acaricide (cyenopyrafen), cyflumetofen, cyhalothrin, cyhexatin, cypermethrin, phentermine, cyametryn, sulfometuron,

d-limonene, dazomet, DBCP, DCIP, DDT, decanoyl furan (decarbofuran), deltamethrin, methylfenaminostrobin O, methylfenaminostrobin S, systemic phosphorus O, systemic phosphorus S, sulfolobutrazol S, diafenthiuron, chlorfenapyr, diazinon, isochlorophos, fenamiprophos, dichlorvos, trichlorphon, xylene, chlorothalofos, dicyclanil, dieldrin, dichlorvos, diflufenthion, diflubenzuron, dielor, tetrafluoromethrin, profenon, dimethoate, benethrin, metryxocarb, fenaminophen, diclodinone, dinotefuran, dinocap, dinotefuran, dinote, Vegetable and fruit phosphorus, dioxycarb, fenamiphos, diphenyl sulfone, disulfiram, disulfoton, dithiafos, DNOC, dofenapyn and dolacridine,

ecdysterone, emamectin, EMPC, empenthrin, endosulfan, phenthoate, endrin, EPN, bayonoether, eprinomectin, fenvalerate, etafenoxate (etaphos), chlorfenapyr, ethion, ethiofencarb, Yiguo, ethoprophos, ethyl DDD, ethyl formate, dibromoethane, dichloroethane, ethylene oxide, ethofenprox, etoxazole, etrimfos, EXD,

amisulfos, fenamiphos, fenbuconazole, fenazaquin, fenbutatin oxide, pyralid, diethylphenate methyl carbamate, fenfluralin, fenitrothion, fenobucarb, fenoxacrim, fenoxycarb, fenpropathrin, fenpyroximate, fenthion, fluvalinate, fenfluramine (fentrifanil), fenvalerate, fipronil, flonicamid, flufenamid, fluzopyr, fluvalicarb, flubendiamide, fluacrid, flufenoxuron, flucythrinate, bifenthrin, fenoxaprop-ethyl, flufenoxuron, trifloxystrobin, flumethrin, flumetofen, flufenproxyfen, fluvalinate, fenpropathrin, fenthion, fenbutazine, thifenthion, fenbutazine, thiocarb, furaldehyde, fenfluroxypyr, fenfluroxyphos, fenthion, fenfluroxyphos, fenbutazone, fenfluroxypyr,

gamma-cyhalothrin, gamma-HCH,

benzyl mite ether, chlorfenapyr hydrazide, HCH, HEOD, heptachlor, fedapsone, chlorthion, hexaflumuron, hexythiazox, HHDN, hydramethylnon, hydrogen cyanide, hydroprene, hydroquinarb (hyquinarb),

neonicotinoids (imicyafos), imidacloprid, ipratron, indoxacarb, methyl iodide, IPSP, isoamidophos (isamidofos), clozapine, carboclofos, isocarbophos, isoaldrin, isosulfolane, isoprocarb, isoprothiolane, isofenphos, oxazapyr, and ivermectin,

jasminum I, jasminum II, iodophor, juvenile hormone I, juvenile hormone II, juvenile hormone III,

the gram-weight ratio of the methoprene,

cyhalothrin, lead arsenate, leptin, parabromophos, benzene hexachloride, lirimfos, lufenuron, fosthiazate,

malathion, terfenapyr, triazophos, methamidophos, bentazon, dithiafos, mercurous chloride, dithianon, thiophosphoryl (mesulfenfos), metaflumizone, metam, chlorfenvinphos, methamidophos, methidathion, ethoprophos, methoprene, methoxyfenozide, methyl bromide, methyl isothiocyanate, methyl chloroform, methylene chloride, metryne, metolcarb, famoxadone, metominophos, monocrotocarb, milbemectin, milbemycin oxime, profenon, mirex, MNAF, monocrotophos, methoxidectin,

naphthylene peptide phosphorus, dibromophosphorus, naphthalene, nicotine, fomesafen, mycin, nitenpyram, nitroethylurea thiazole, valerylcarb, noviflumuron and noviflumuron,

omethoate, oxamyl, methyl isosystemic phosphorus sulfoxide, phosphorus isothioxide, phosphorus sulfooxide,

p-dichlorobenzene, parathion, methyl parathion, chlorfluazuron, pentachlorophenol, permethrin, fenthion, phenothrin, phenthoate, phorate, fosthion, thiocyclophos, phosmet, phosphamidon, phosphine, phosphocarb (phosphonarb), hydroxymephos, methyl phoxim, pyrene (pirimephos), pirimicarb, ethylpyrimidinophos, pirimiphos, potassium arsenite, potassium thiocyanate, pp' DDT, pyrethrin, precocene I, precocene II, precocene III, pyrenemidophos (primidophos), propylchlorohydrin, profenofos, proffluthrin, tick-thiocarb, propamocarb, propylthion, propargite, methoprene, dimethomorph, ethidathion, prothiofos, pomacea, protamine (prothromoprol), pyrazofos, rinoprofen, prallethrin, pyraflufen, perfos (pyraflufenofos), pyraflufenofos, prothiofos, resmethrin, pyridaphenthrin, pyrene fluoroquinazon (pyrifluquinazon), pyriminostrobin, pyraclostrobin (pyrimitate), pirox (pyriprox), pyriproxyfen,

ramulus Et folium Picrasmae, Quinchos, methyl Quinchos, Orthonium, Quinchos, Quinchi phenanthrene (quattifies),

rafoxanide, pyrethrum, rotenone, niacina,

veratrum, octamethiphos, selamectin, silafluofen, sodium arsenite, sodium fluoride, sodium hexafluorosilicate, sodium thiocyanate, Suguo, Spinetoram, spinosad, spirodiclofen, spiromesifen, spirotetramat, Scotryon (Sulcoferon), Schfferen, sulfluramid, Photinus Philaphllata, sulfur, sulfuryl fluoride, thioprofos,

fluvalinate, hexythiazox, TDE, tebufenozide, tebufenpyrad, butylpyrimidine phosphate, teflubenzuron, tefluthrin, temephos, TEPP, cyphenothrin, terbufos, tetrachloroethane, chlorfenvinphos, tetrachlorfensulfone, chrysanthemum morifolium, four antibiotics, diafenthiuron, theta-cypermethrin, thiacloprid, thiamethoxam, thifenphos (thiocofos), bendiocarb, thiocyclam, thiodicarb, monocarb, fosetyl-methyl, thiamethoxam, tetrathiotep, thiocyclap, thuringin, tolfenpyrad, tetrabromthrin, transfluthrin, biothrin, fenamiphos, triazophos, trichlorfon, isophos 3, toxic loafos, triphenolphos (trinofos), triflumuron, trimethacarb, methoprene,

aphidicolor, aphidifop, vanillyl pyrile (vanillyle),

XMC, the methomyl,

zeta cypermethrin and levolaphos (zolaprofos).

In addition, any combination of the above insecticides can be used.

Html, "company of Pesticide Common Names" with the file's filing date is consulted for more information. See also British Crop Production Council, "The pesticide Manual" 14 th edition, ed C D S Tomlin, ed 2006.

In a particular embodiment, the pesticide is one that has a rapid effect when ingested by or contacted with the pest (referred to herein as a "ready-to-use" pesticide or a "quick-acting" pesticide). For example, insecticides that have a rapid killing action when ingested by termites include chlorpyrifos, spinosad, imidacloprid and fipronil, each of which is well known and commercially available. The term "fast" as used herein means that the pesticide generally works to kill individual pests before they return to their colony. In another embodiment, the pesticide is one that exhibits a delayed effect when ingested by or contacted with the pest (referred to herein as a "slow-acting" pesticide). For example, insecticides having a delayed killing action when ingested by or contacted with termites include hexaflumuron and noviflumuron, each of which is well known and commercially available. The term "delay" as used herein means that the pesticide does not normally work to kill individual pests until after the pests have returned to their community. In another embodiment, the insecticide is selected from lufenuron, diflubenzuron, flufenoxuron or hydramethylnon.

The plastic structural matrix in one embodiment comprises a polymer having a melting point below about 220 ℃. In another specific embodiment, the plastic structural matrix comprises a polymer having a melting point below about 200 ℃. In yet another embodiment, the plastic structural matrix comprises a polymer having a melting point of no greater than about 180 ℃. In another specific embodiment, the plastic structural matrix comprises a polymer having a melting point below about 160 ℃. In yet another embodiment, the plastic structural matrix comprises a polymer having a melting point below about 140 ℃. The processing temperature for melting the polymer when preparing the composite is a temperature lower than the temperature at which the function of the insecticide is disabled. In another embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer included in the composite is one that is suitable for the appetite of the target pest species (also referred to herein as a "pest edible polymer"). In yet another specific embodiment, the plastic structural matrix comprises a thermoplastic cellulose derivative. In a preferred embodiment, the matrix comprises cellulose acetate. For example, in one embodiment, the cellulose acetate is one having a degree of polymerization of from about 50 to about 400 monomeric units. In another specific embodiment, the polymer comprises cellulose acetate butyrate. For example, in one embodiment, the cellulose acetate butyrate is one having a degree of polymerization of from about 50 to about 400 units. In another specific embodiment, the cellulose acetate butyrate has a degree of polymerization of about 100 to about 300 units. In yet another embodiment, the cellulose acetate butyrate included in the composite has about 160 units. In yet another specific embodiment, the matrix comprises cellulose acetate propionate. For example, in one embodiment, the cellulose acetate propionate is a cellulose acetate propionate having a degree of polymerization of about 50 to about 400 units. In another specific embodiment, the cellulose acetate propionate has a degree of polymerization of about 100 to about 300. Alternatively, a variety of other polymers can be used.

It is also contemplated herein that the thermoplastic polymer can comprise a single polymer or a mixture of at least two different polymers. For example, in one embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer comprises a mixture of a relatively higher molecular weight polymer and a relatively lower molecular weight polymer. One specific embodiment, for example, includes a mixture of cellulose acetate butyrate having from about 50 to about 75 monomer units and cellulose acetate butyrate having from about 150 to about 300 monomer units. Another specific embodiment includes a mixture of cellulose acetate butyrate having about 60 monomer units and cellulose acetate butyrate having about 300 monomer units. Yet another embodiment includes a mixture of cellulose acetate butyrate having about 64 monomer units and cellulose acetate butyrate having about 160 monomer units. In another specific embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer comprises a mixture of cellulose acetate propionate having from about 50 to about 75 monomer units and cellulose acetate propionate having from about 150 to about 300 monomer units. Another specific embodiment includes a mixture of cellulose acetate propionate having about 60 monomer units and cellulose acetate propionate having about 300 monomer units. Yet another embodiment includes a mixture of cellulose acetate propionate having about 64 monomer units and cellulose acetate propionate having about 160 monomer units. This application contemplates a variety of additional combinations, as would be known to one skilled in the art. In addition to including mixtures of polymers having different molecular weights, the present application contemplates specific embodiments wherein the thermoplastic polymer includes a mixture of different types of polymers. For example, the polymer can include a mixture of two or more of cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, and cellulose acetate propionate. Alternatively, the polymer can comprise a mixture of one or more of these with one or more other thermoplastic polymers or two or more other thermoplastic polymers. The selected mixture has physical properties (i.e., processability characteristics and palatability to wood-destroying pests) suitable for the uses described herein.

In addition to the polymer, food material and insecticide, other ingredients can optionally be included in the composite. For example, ingredients can be included to increase the stability or shelf life of the pesticide contained in the composite. Other ingredients can be selected to improve the processability of the mixture or to provide beneficial effects after the composite is formed. Other ingredients can be selected, for example, to attract pests to a bait or to stimulate feeding. The composite materials disclosed herein can also include or be used with herbicides and fungicides for economic and synergistic reasons. For economic and synergistic reasons, the composite materials disclosed herein can also include or be used with antimicrobials, bactericides, defoliants, safeners, synergists, algaecides, attractants, desiccants, pheromones, protectants, animal-seeking agents (animal tips), avicides, disinfectants, semiochemicals, and molluscicides, which classes are not necessarily mutually exclusive.

The composite material can be manufactured by using a combined method of compounding and extrusion or molding to form an article composed of the composite material. This application is not intended to be limited to the manufacture of articles having a particular shape or "macrostructure". Instead, a variety of shapes are envisioned. Articles made according to the present application can be formed into a variety of shapes by extrusion, by post-extrusion processing, by original die design, by post-molding processing, or by a combination thereof.

To prepare a composite material according to one embodiment, a mixture of particulate or granular thermoplastic polymer, insecticide and cellulosic material is provided, and the mixture is then compounded to mix the components and extruded or molded at a predetermined temperature and pressure. The polymer, cellulosic material, and pesticide can be combined using standard mixing or compounding techniques to mix the components and dissipate excess moisture. For example, the materials can be mixed in a rotary mixer or a compounding extruder. If desired, heat is applied to bring the mixture to a temperature at least as high as the melting point or glass transition temperature of the polymer (i.e., a temperature suitable to soften the amorphous portion of the polymer), but not to a temperature at which the pesticide function fails. Thermoplastic polymers soften when they reach their melting point or glass transition temperature, making them flexible or pliable and therefore suitable for shaping, such as by extrusion. Preferably, the temperature is at least as high as the melting point of the polymer, but not as high as the temperature at which the pesticide function fails. In a particular embodiment, the processing temperature is no greater than about 220 ℃, such as from about 90 ℃ to about 220 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is from about 170 ℃ to about 220 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is no greater than about 200 ℃, such as from about 90 ℃ to about 200 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is from about 150 ℃ to about 200 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is not greater than about 180 ℃, such as from about 90 ℃ to about 180 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is from about 130 ℃ to about 180 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is no greater than about 160 ℃, such as from about 90 ℃ to about 160 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is from about 110 ℃ to about 160 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is no greater than about 140 ℃, for example from about 90 ℃ to about 140 ℃. In another embodiment, the processing temperature is from about 100 ℃ to about 140 ℃. Those skilled in the art will recognize that higher temperatures may be required and that the processing temperature may be optimized to allow the polymer to be processed so long as the temperature is not raised to a point that causes significant damage to other composite components (e.g., carbonizing the cellulosic food material or disabling the pesticide function). One of ordinary skill in the art will also appreciate that the inclusion of a solvent in the mixture can alter the softening temperature of the thermoplastic polymer material. In embodiments where a solvent is present, it is understood that softening at the surface of the polymer modified by the solvent may begin at a temperature lower than the natural melting point of the polymer in the absence of the solvent. In other words, in embodiments where the solvent is effective to soften the surface of the polymer at a temperature below the natural melting point of the polymer, the temperature below the natural melting point of the polymer may be a suitable molding temperature.

A variety of extrusion or molding techniques can be used, many examples of which are well known in the art. Without intending to be bound by any theory, it is believed that under the extrusion or molding conditions applied in the methods described herein, the polymer particles become softened, tacky, or completely melted. When this occurs, the pressure is released when the mixture causes the softened polymer particles to contact and bond together or causes the polymer to completely melt, whereby the molten polymer forms a continuous phase in the mixture. The temperature at which the compression is applied is a temperature that is lower than the temperature at which the insecticide is destroyed or denatured, but high enough to achieve the desired level of polymer particle bonding or polymer melting. It is understood that a variety of material specifications (e.g., polymer type, polymer size, particle size distribution, and ingredient ratios) and a variety of processing parameters (e.g., temperature and pressure) can be used to provide articles with various advantageous properties. Those skilled in the art who are provided with the present specification will be able to select, without undue experimentation, advantageous combinations of materials and parameters to provide articles having different amounts of insecticide, different degrees of palatability to various wood destroying pests, and different physical properties.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art upon consideration of the description herein, one aspect of the present application is a method of making a composite material comprising: (1) providing a mixture of a thermoplastic polymer having a softening or melting point of about 220 ℃ or less, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of at least one wood-destroying pest species, and a pesticide toxic to the pest; (2) forming the mixture to provide a workpiece having a desired shape; and (3) cooling the workpiece to a temperature below the softening point or melting point of the plastic to provide a solid composite article. The heated mixture can also optionally include a plasticizer. In a particular embodiment, the amount of plasticizer is at least about 1% by weight relative to the total weight of the mixture. In another embodiment, the amount of plasticizer is at least about 1.5% by weight relative to the total weight of the mixture. In yet another embodiment, the amount of plasticizer is from about 1% to about 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the mixture. In yet another embodiment, the amount of plasticizer is at least about 4.2% by weight relative to the total weight of the mixture. In one identified formulation, the polymer in the mixture is a cellulose acetate polymer and the plasticizer is a plasticizer for cellulose acetate. For example and without limitation, the plasticizer is an ester of a polyol and/or an ester of a hydroxycarboxylic acid. Examples of suitable plasticizers include glycerol triacetate, triethylene glycol diacetate, esters of citric acid, and esters of phthalic acid. Other suitable plasticizers include adipic acid plasticizers, such as a mixture of diisobutyl adipate and dioctyl adipate with a similar total concentration of 1% to 5% of the extruded matrix. In one embodiment, diisobutyl adipate and dioctyl adipate are present in the mixture in a ratio of about 3: 1 w/w.

In one way of carrying out the method, the molten mixture is provided as follows: the polymer, food material and insecticide are mixed to form a mixture, and then the mixture is compounded at high pressure and high temperature to form a molten material. In another way of carrying out the method, the method comprises forming pellets or tablets of the mixture prior to compounding. In one way of making a composite article, all of the components are mixed together, and the mixture is then heated above the melting point of the thermoplastic polymer contained therein, e.g., up to about 220 ℃ in some embodiments, in an apparatus such as a twin screw mixer (which is capable of additional mixing and then extrusion through a die, which imparts a particular cross-sectional profile to the composite), and then cooled or sprayed in a water bath. In another way of forming an article comprised of a composite material, a polymer, a cellulosic food material, and an insecticide are combined in an extruder at positive pressure and elevated temperature and thereafter extruded to provide an elongated workpiece. Thereafter, cold water is applied to the workpiece. Cooling can be achieved, for example, by applying a water bath to the workpiece or spraying the workpiece with water.

In one embodiment the amount of thermoplastic polymer in the mixture is from about 5% to about 50% by weight of the total composite, with the remainder of the mixture comprising cellulosic material (from about 50% to about 85%), insecticide (from about 0.001% to about 5%) and optionally lubricant (e.g., up to about 5%) and/or other processing aids to assist in improving the processability or product properties of the mixture. In another embodiment, the mixture includes from about 10% to about 40% polymer, from about 60% to about 85% cellulosic material, and from about 0.001% to about 5% insecticide. In yet another embodiment, the mixture includes from about 15% to about 30% of the polymer, from about 70% to about 85% of the cellulosic material, and from about 0.001% to about 5% of the pesticide. In other embodiments, the pesticide is present in an amount of about 0.4% to about 5%.

In another way of carrying out the method, a food material, such as pure alpha cellulose, is first preloaded with an insecticide (also referred to herein as an "active ingredient" or "AI"). In one mode of preloading, the pesticide is sprayed directly onto the cellulose particles, and the mixture of cellulose particles and pesticide is then compacted and broken into granules, including the cellulosic food material and pesticide therein. When this method is used, the pesticide is referred to as "incorporated into cellulose" and the method is referred to as "incorporated into cellulose" process. In another way of preloading food material with an AI, preformed cellulose particles (commercially available and available from International Fibers) are sprayed with a pesticide to provide a preloaded cellulosic material. When this method is used, the pesticide is referred to as "spray-to-cellulose" and the method is referred to as "spray-to-cellulose" process. The cellulose/insecticide particles (or optionally the uncompacted cellulose/insecticide mixture) are mixed with the thermoplastic polymer material and the mixture is then extruded at a temperature above the melting point of the thermoplastic polymer material. In a particular embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer material comprises cellulose acetate butyrate. For example, the cellulose acetate butyrate can include a mixture of a cellulose acetate butyrate having a molecular weight of about 16,000 and a cellulose acetate butyrate having a molecular weight of about 40,000. When the mixture is used, it can be extruded at a temperature of 140 ℃ to 150 ℃. A lubricant can also be included to assist in the flow of the matrix through the extrusion die. In one embodiment, the lubricant is calcium stearate.

In another way of carrying out the process, the cellulose particles are first compounded with the thermoplastic polymer (e.g. in a Gelimat mixer) to provide cellulose/plastic particles, and then the insecticide spray is applied to the post-compounded cellulose/plastic particles. The calcium stearate is optionally mixed with a post compounding batch (batch) prior to spraying the insecticide onto the material. After the insecticide is applied, the mixture is extruded or molded. In experimental work using Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB) as further discussed in the examples below, the CAB and other solid components were blended and partially melted using a Gelimat mixer through the use of strong shear and the generation of heat. In the Gelimat mixer, a 1000HP motor drives a stirring paddle in a chamber having a volume of about 1 cubic foot, which contains the solids to be compounded. This mixing step disperses the CAB and also dissipates water which is harmful during extrusion.

In another way of implementing the method, the method comprises: (a) adding a food material and an insecticide to an extruder mixing vessel; (b) contacting a hot thermoplastic polymer with the food material and pesticide to produce a food material/pesticide/thermoplastic polymer mixture; and (c) contacting the food material/insecticide/thermoplastic polymer mixture with a die to provide a shape to the food material/insecticide/thermoplastic polymer mixture and to prepare a workpiece. In a particular embodiment, the food material comprises wood fiber.

In an alternative embodiment, a mixture of the particulate polymer, the cellulosic food material and the pesticide and optionally other ingredients is formed into a composite material by injection moulding. Alternatively or additionally, the mixture can be combined and pressed in a Carver press or other compression molding apparatus. The composite material takes the shape of the mold when injected into the mold cavity under positive pressure and elevated temperature and upon cooling produces a composite material as described above.

The composite materials provided herein can be used as a monitor or bait for a pest control device. In one embodiment, the composite material can be used as a stand-alone bait for attracting and stopping pests as a single step pesticide delivery tool without the need for a pest control professional to monitor to determine if such pests are present in a particular area. Alternatively, the method can be used in conjunction with a monitoring step to determine the presence or absence of a wood-destroying pestA composite material. For example, the composite material can be placed in an existing termite bait station (e.g., Sentricin)Termite colony extermination bait station) as a replacement monitor or bait, as further described below with reference to fig. 1-7.

Fig. 1 shows pest control system 20. System 20 is arranged to protect building 22 from damage due to pests such as subterranean termites. System 20 includes a number of pest control devices 110 positioned about building 22. In fig. 1, only some of the devices 110 are specifically identified by reference numerals to maintain clarity. The system 20 also includes an interrogator 30 to gather information about the device 110. Data collected by device 110 using interrogator 30 is collected in Data Collection Unit (DCU)40 via communication interface 41.

With additional reference to FIG. 2, certain aspects of the operation of the system 20 are shown. In FIG. 2, pest control service provider P is shown using wireless communication technology to operate interrogator 30 to interrogate pest control device 110 located below at least a portion of ground G. In this embodiment, interrogator 30 is shown in a hand-held form that facilitates scanning of ground G to establish wireless communication with installed devices 110. In an alternative embodiment, interrogator 30 can include contacts configured to temporarily electrically couple pest control device 110 with the interrogator to interrogate pest control device 110. Additional aspects of system 20 and its operation are described below, but further details regarding representative pest control device 110 are first described with reference to FIGS. 3-7.

Fig. 3-7 illustrate various features of pest control device 110. To initially detect pests, pest control device 110 is internally configured with pest monitoring assembly 112. Referring more particularly to fig. 3 and 4, pest monitoring assembly 112 is shown along centerline assembly axis a. The axis a coincides with the viewing plane of fig. 3 and 4, wherein the viewing plane of fig. 4 is perpendicular to the viewing plane of fig. 3.

Pest monitoring assembly 112 includes a sensor subassembly 114 below a communication circuit subassembly 116 along axis A. The sensor subassembly 114 includes two (2) bait members 132 (see fig. 3 and 6). Each of the bait elements 132 is made of a bait material for one or more selected pest species. For example, each of the bait elements 132 can be made of a material that is particularly preferred for food by such pests. In one embodiment directed to subterranean termites, each of the bait elements 132 is in the form of a block of cork that does not contain an insecticide component. In other embodiments for termites, one or more bait elements 132 can include an insecticide, have a composition other than wood, or have a combination of these characteristics. In other embodiments where pest control device 110 is directed to pest types other than termites, a respective different composition of each bait element 132 is typically used. When it is desired to use a bait element that includes an insecticide, one or both of bait elements 132 can comprise an insecticidal composite as described herein above.

The sensor subassembly 114 also includes a sensor 150. The sensor 150 is depicted between the bait elements 132 in fig. 3 and 6, where fig. 6 is a more fully assembled view of the pest control device 110 as compared to fig. 3. As shown in fig. 4 and 6, sensor 150 is generally elongated and has an end portion 152a opposite end portion 152 b. The middle portion of the sensor 150 is represented by a pair of adjacent break lines separating portions 152a and 152b in fig. 4, and the bait element 132 is not shown in fig. 4 to prevent a view of the sensor 150 from being obscured.

Sensor 150 includes a substrate 151. The substrate 151 carries conductive lines 153, the conductive lines 153 being arranged to provide sensing elements 153a in the form of electrically conductive loops or vias 154 (shown in partial view in fig. 4). Along the central sensor portion represented by the break lines of fig. 4, the four portions of the passage 154 continue along generally straight, parallel paths (not shown) and correspondingly connect the four passage portions of the end portion 152a terminating at one of the break lines with the four passage portions of the end portion 152b terminating at the other break line. The vias 154 are terminated by a pair of electrical contact pads 156 adjacent a substrate edge 155 of the end portion 152 a.

Substrate 151 and/or wire 153 are composed of one or more materials that are sensitive to consumption or movement by pests monitored by pest monitoring assembly 112. These materials may be food, non-food, or a combination of both for one or more pest species of interest. In fact, it has been found that materials composed of non-food products are susceptible to being dislodged during consumption of an adjacent edible material, such as bait elements 132. In certain embodiments, one or more of the substrate 151 or the conductive wire 153 can be comprised of an insecticidal composite material as described herein above. The via 154 is eventually altered as the substrate 151 or the conductive line 153 is consumed or moved. Such changes can be used to indicate the presence of pests by monitoring one or more corresponding electrical properties of pathway 154 (described more fully below). Alternatively, the substrate 151 or wire 153 can be oriented relative to the bait member 132 such that some consumption or movement of the bait member 132 will produce a mechanical force sufficient to alter the conductivity of the pathway 154 in a detectable manner. For this option, substrate 151 and/or wire 153 need not be directly consumed or displaced by the pest of interest.

Pest monitoring assembly 112 further includes a circuit subassembly 116 coupled to sensor subassembly 114. The circuit subassembly 116 is arranged to detect and communicate pest activity indicated by a change in one or more electrical properties of the pathway 154 of the sensor subassembly 114. The circuit subassembly 116 includes a circuit housing 118 for housing a communication line 160 and a pair of connection elements 140 for removably coupling the communication line 160 to the sensor 150 of the sensor subassembly 114. The housing 118 includes a cover 120, an o-ring 124, and a base 130, each of which has a generally circular periphery about an axis a. A more fully assembled housing 118 is shown in fig. 4 as compared to fig. 3. The cover 120 defines a cavity 122 bounded by an inner flange 123. The base 130 defines a channel 131 (shown in phantom) sized to receive the o-ring 124 and includes an outer flange 133 configured to engage the inner flange 123 when the base 130 is assembled with the cover 120 (see fig. 4).

The communication line 160 is located between the cover 120 and the substrate 130. The communication line 160 includes a coil antenna 162 and a printed wiring board 164 with circuit components 166. Referring also to fig. 5, a top view of the assembly of substrate 130, connecting element 140, and wireless communication link 160 is shown. In fig. 5, axis a is perpendicular to the plane of view and is indicated by a similarly labeled cross-hair. The base 130 includes posts 132 to engage mounting holes through the printed wiring board 164. The substrate 130 also includes a support 134 to engage the coil antenna 162 and hold it in fixed relation to the substrate 130 and the printed wiring board 164 when assembled together. Base 130 further includes four supports 136, each of supports 136 defining an opening 137 therethrough, as best shown in FIG. 4. The base 130 is shaped with a centrally located tab 138 between an adjacent pair of supports 136. The tab 138 defines a recess 139 (shown in phantom in fig. 3).

Referring generally to fig. 3-5, each of the connection elements 140 includes a pair of connection nodes 146. Each node 146 has a neck 147 and a head 145 extending from opposite end portions of the respective connecting element 140. For each connecting element 140, a bump 148 is positioned between a respective pair of nodes 146. The projection 148 defines a recess 149. The connecting element 140 is formed of an electrically conductive elastomeric material. In one embodiment, each connecting element 140 is made of a carbon-containing silicone rubber (e.g., compound 862 available from TECKNIT, available from trade addresses 129 Dermody Street, Cranford, N.J. 07016). However, in other embodiments, different compositions can be used.

To assemble each connecting element 140 to base 130, a respective pair of nodes 146 is inserted through a respective pair of openings 137 of supports 136, with tabs 148 extending into recesses 139. The head 145 of each node 146 is sized slightly larger than the respective opening 137 through which it passes. As a result, during insertion, the heads 145 elastically deform until passing completely through the respective openings 137. Once the head 145 extends into the opening 137, the head 145 returns to its original shape with the neck 147 securely engaging the edge of the opening. By appropriately sizing and shaping head portion 145 and neck portion 147 of node 146, opening 137 can be sealed against the passage of moisture and debris when base 130 and connecting element 140 are assembled together. As shown in fig. 5, printed wiring board 164 contacts one node 146 of each connecting element 140 after assembly.

After the connecting element 140 is assembled with the base 130, the housing 118 is assembled by inserting the base 130 into the cavity 122, the cavity 122 having the o-ring 124 in the channel 131. During insertion, the cover 120 and/or the base 130 elastically deform such that the flange 133 extends into the cavity 122 beyond the inner flange 123, thereby causing the cover 120 and the base 130 to engage one another in a "twist-on" type connection. The angular profile of the outer surface of base 130 facilitates this form of assembly. Once the cover 120 and the base 130 are connected in this manner, the o-ring 124 provides an elastomeric seal to resist the ingress of moisture and debris into the cavity 122. The inner surface of the cover 120 engaged by the base 130 has a complementary profile that also assists in sealing.

After the communication circuit subassembly 116 is assembled, the sensor 150 is assembled to the subassembly 116 by inserting the end portion 152a into the recess 149 of each of the connection elements 140 carried by the base 130. The connecting member 140 is sized to be slightly elastically deformed by inserting the end portion 152a into the groove 149 such that a biasing force is applied by connecting the connecting member 140 to the end portion 152a to securely grasp the sensor 150 in contact therewith. Once end portion 152a is inserted into connecting member 140, each pad 156 is electrically contacted by a different one of connecting members 140. In turn, each node 146 that is in electrical contact with printed wiring board 164 couples via 154 to printed wiring board 164.

Referring to FIG. 6, an exploded view of pest control device 110 and pest monitoring assembly 112 is shown. In FIG. 6, sensor subassembly 114 and circuit subassembly 116 are shown assembled together and embedded in carrier member 190 to maintain pest monitoring assembly 112 as a unit. The load bearing member 190 is in the form of a frame that includes a base 192 attached to an opposing side beam 194. Only one side beam 194 is fully visible in fig. 6, the other side beam extending from base 192 along the hidden side of pest monitoring assembly 112 in a similar manner. The side beams 194 are connected together by a bridge 196 opposite the base 192. The bridge 196 is arranged to define a void 198 that is contoured to receive the assembled housing 118 of the circuit subassembly 116.

Pest control device 110 includes a cavity 170 having a removable cover 180, the cavity being arranged to be placed in the ground, such as shown in FIG. 2. The cavity 170 defines a chamber 172 that intersects with an opening 178. Pest monitoring assembly 112 and carrier member 190 are sized for insertion into chamber 172 through opening 178. The cavity 170 has an end portion 171a opposite an end portion 171 b. End portion 171b includes a tapered joint 175 to assist in positioning pest control device 110 within the ground as shown in fig. 2. The nipple 175 terminates within a bore (not shown). A plurality of slots 174 defined by the cavity 170 communicate with the chamber 172. The slits 174 are particularly well suited for the ingress and egress of termites from the chamber 172. Cavity 170 has a number of protruding flanges, some of which are designated as reference numerals 176a, 176b, 176c, 176d, and 176e in FIG. 6, to assist in positioning pest control device 110 in the ground.

Once within chamber 172, pest monitoring assembly 112 can be secured within cavity 170 with a cover 180. The cover 180 includes a downward prong 184 arranged to engage the channel 179 of the cavity 170. After the cap 180 is fully sealed over the cavity 170, the cap 180 can be rotated to engage the prongs 184 in the anti-disassembly locked position. The locking mechanism includes a latch and detent arrangement. The slot 182 can be used to engage the cap 180 with a tool such as a flat screwdriver to assist in rotating the cap 180. Carrier 190, base 130, cover 120, cavity 170, and lid 180 are preferably made of a material that is resistant to deterioration caused by expected environmental exposure and to alteration caused by pests that may be detected by pest control device 110. In One form, these components are made from a polymeric resin such as polypropylene or a CYCOLAC AR polymeric Plastics material available from General Electric Plastics, having a commercial address of One Plastics Avenue, Pittsfield, MA 01201.

Typically, pest monitoring assembly 112 is placed in chamber 172 after cavity 170 is at least partially installed within the ground of the area to be monitored. Assembly 112 is configured to detect and report pest activity. In one mode of operation, pest control device 110 is again configured to deliver a pesticide after pest activity is detected with pest monitoring assembly 112. Figure 7 is an exploded assembly view of one embodiment of such a reconfiguration. In fig. 7, pest control device 110 uses pesticide delivery assembly 119 as a replacement for pest monitoring assembly 112 after pest activity has been detected. The replacement starts as follows: the cap 180 is rotated in a direction opposite to that required to lock the cap and the cap 180 is removed from the cavity 170. Typically, removal of the cover 180 occurs while the cavity 170 remains at least partially installed in the ground. Pest monitoring assembly 112 is then withdrawn from cavity 170 by pulling on load bearing member 190. It has been found that application of pest control device 110 to pests such as termites can result in a substantial amount of soil and debris accumulating in chamber 172 prior to removal of pest monitoring assembly 112. This accumulation can interfere with the removal of pest monitoring assembly 112 from chamber 172. Accordingly, the routing element 190 preferably withstands a pull force of at least 40 pounds (lbs.), and more preferably at least 80lbs.

After pest monitoring assembly 112 is removed from chamber 172, pesticide delivery assembly 119 is placed into chamber 172 of cavity 170 through opening 178. Pesticide delivery assembly 119 includes a pesticide bait tube 1170 defining a chamber 1172. Chamber 1172 contains an insecticide-bearing substrate element 1173 which can be comprised of an insecticidal composite material as described herein above. The tube 1170 has a threaded nozzle 1174 arranged to be engaged by a cap 1176 having complementary internal threads (not shown). Lid 1176 defines an aperture 1178. Before, during, or after pest monitoring assembly 112 is removed from cavity 170, circuit subassembly 116 is detached from sensor 150. Aperture 1178 is thus sized and shaped to securely receive circuit subassembly 116 after detachment from pest monitoring assembly 112. After the insecticide delivery assembly 119 is configured with the circuit subassembly 116, the insecticide delivery assembly 119 is placed in the chamber 172 and the cover 180 can again engage the cavity 170 in the manner previously described.

In view of the above, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present application provides in one aspect a pest control device comprising an insecticidal bait operable to be consumed or displaced by one or more species of pest; and a cavity at least partially enclosing the bait. The insecticidal bait comprises a composite material including a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material adapted to the appetite of the pest contained within the matrix, and an insecticide toxic to the pest contained within the matrix. The device can also include a pest sensing circuit or be configured to optionally include a pest sensing circuit and a bait. In another aspect, the present application provides a pest control system that includes at least two pest control devices, each of the two pest control devices being positioned apart from the other within an area to be protected from one or more pests. At least one of the pest control devices includes or is configured to optionally include a bait operable to be consumed or moved by a pest and comprising a composite material including a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material contained within the matrix suitable for the appetite of the pest, and a pesticide contained within the matrix that is toxic to the pest.

In another aspect, the present application provides a method comprising: (1) providing a pest control device comprising an insecticidal bait for one or more species of pest, said bait comprising a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material contained within said matrix suitable for the appetite of the pest, and a pesticide contained within said matrix that is toxic to the pest; and (2) installing the device in an area to be protected from pests. In one way of carrying out the method, the apparatus is one that further includes a pest sensor and a communication line coupled to the pest sensor. In one embodiment, the sensor includes a pest sensing circuit, and the pest sensing circuit includes a conductive loop arranged to change during consumption or movement of bait for the pest control device. The loop is coupled to the communication line to provide a two-state signal, wherein a first state of the signal corresponds to a powered down condition of the loop and a second state of the signal corresponds to a powered up condition of the loop.

In another aspect of the present application, the composite material described herein can be used as a wood substitute material for structural applications that typically require the use of wood. The wood substitute material comprises a composite material comprising a plastic structural matrix, a cellulosic food material suitable for the appetite of pests contained within the matrix, and a pesticide toxic to the pests contained within the matrix. The composite materials described herein can be used as wood substitutes for structural components such as structural parts of windows and doors, moldings, or fascia. When the wood substitute material is consumed or displaced by a wood-destroying pest, the pesticide therein will act to kill some or all of the wood-destroying pest, thereby preventing further damage to the wood substitute material.

The subject matter of the present application will be further described with reference to the following specific examples. It is to be understood that these embodiments are intended in an illustrative rather than in a restrictive sense.

Examples

Example 1

Preparation of extruded composites

(test 1)

Pure cellulose is available from International Fiber in several Fiber lengths and bulk densities. The fibers tested included AlphaCel BH100, AlphaCel BH200, briquetting BH100, SolkaFloc specialty particles, and SolkaFloc microfine particles. For some experiments, alphacellbh 100 was briquetted to form a material with higher bulk density. SolkaFloc fine particles and specialty particle cellulose were found to be suitable raw materials for mixing with thermoplastics to form a compound extruder feed.

Table 1 below shows the fibers tested in the studies described herein. When it is associated with MD-499 (which is currently in SenTRICON)Aspen wood blocks used in termite stations) all studies produced products that were well accepted by termites as measured by the quality of the extruded material consumed. Different lengths and physical forms of the virgin cellulose fibers were tested in order to determine the optimum fibers and fiber forms for the extrusion process.

TABLE 1 fibers tested during extrusion

Cellulose fiber ED	Length (micron)	Fibrous form	Evaluation of
				AlphaCel BH-100	40	Powder of	Low bulk density of fibres-poor processing and cross-linking in the feeder
AlphaCel BH-200	35	Powder of	Low bulk density of fibres-poor processing and cross-linking in the feeder
				AlphaCel C-40	150	Sheet	Higher fiber density, good processing, some untreated fiber areas (fiber mass)
AlphaCel C-10	400	Sheet	Higher fiber density, good processing, some

			Untreated fiber region (fiber Block)
				SolkaFloc special particle	75	Particles	Fine particles are well processed and have a high bulk density, so that flow is good without crosslinking in the feeder
Briquetting AlphaCel BH-100	40	Pressing block	The fibers are very dense. Gelimat breaks the briquettes to mix with the thermoplastic. Incomplete fragmentation was observed in the final product

Reported physical properties of AlphaCell BH-100 materials include an average fiber length of 40 microns, a water permeability of 3 darcy ml/g (measured at 5psi using a 20 gram sample), a wet bulk density of 18 pounds per cubic foot, and a sieve analysis of 0% on a 40 mesh, no less than 90% through a 100 mesh, and no less than 70% through a 200 mesh.

Reported physical properties of the AlphaCell BH-200 material include an average fiber length of 35 microns, a total volume of 2.1-2.6 ml/g, a water retention of 3.0% g/g, and a sieve analysis of 0% on a 40 mesh, 93-100% through a 100 mesh, and 75-100% through a 200 mesh.

Reported physical properties of AlphaCell C-40 materials include an average fiber length of 120 microns, a water permeability of 18 darcies cc/g (determined using a 20 gram sample at 5 psi), a wet bulk density of 9 pounds per cubic foot, and a sieve analysis of less than 1% on a 40 mesh, no more than 95% through a 100 mesh, and no more than 50% through a 200 mesh.

Reported physical properties of AlphaCell C-10 materials include an average fiber length of 290 microns, a water permeability of 28 darcy milliliters per gram (measured at 5psi using a 20 gram sample), a wet bulk density of 6.5 pounds per cubic foot, and a sieve analysis of less than 15% on a 40 mesh, less than 60% through a 100 mesh, and less than 25% through a 200 mesh.

The reported physical properties of the SolkaFloc specialty particulate material include a total volume of 28.0 pounds per cubic foot, a water retention of 3.5 grams per gram, and a sieve analysis of not less than 80% on a 40 mesh screen and not less than 2% through a 200 mesh screen.

Briquettes AlphaCel BH-100 were made by adding water to AlphaCel BH-100 and forming the material into briquettes using a Komarek compactor. The active form of the material is to spray hexaflumuron or noviflumuron onto the powder prior to briquetting.

Several different types of thermoplastic polymers were used in these tests. Examples include Cellulose Acetate Propionate (CAP), Cellulose Acetate Butyrate (CAB), and polylactic acid (PLA). These plastics are consumed by termites when mixed with cellulose. Initial experiments were conducted with CAP processed at temperatures of about 180 to 200 ℃. This temperature is relatively high with respect to the melting point of hexaflumuron and noviflumuron. Processing the matrix at this high temperature in a Gelimat would make the product susceptible to carbonization or possible ignition if mixed under high shear for an extended period of time. The high shear rapidly increases the temperature and the cellulose will carbonize at temperatures above about 220 ℃. PLA is processed at about 220 ℃. At this temperature, cellulose is very easily carbonized, and attention is therefore directed to CAB.

The polymer CAB (processing temperature 130 ℃) was chosen to reduce the processing temperature of the extrusion, which has multiple benefits. For example, the fiber/thermoplastic matrix is less prone to carbonization or burning at lower temperatures when processed through the compounding and extrusion steps. In addition, processing at these lower temperatures prevents degradation of the temperature sensitive pesticide.

The form and physical state of the thermoplastic polymer were investigated. Pellets of thermoplastic containing plasticizer were initially used. The material worked satisfactorily after optimization of the plasticizer content to produce optimal termite feeding of the extruded matrix. It was found that the thermoplastic available in powder form was mixed better with the cellulose fibres and easier to compound. Both CAP and CAB were used as powder plastics. Plastics of different molecular weights are mixed to optimize the flow of the thermoplastic in the fiber matrix. The mixture of polymers is chosen to produce two effects. The high molecular weight polymer is selected to provide structural strength to the profile (profile) and the low molecular weight polymer is selected to provide improved wet flow and viscosity reduction of the polymer/cellulose melt. The CAB polymer selected was CAB-531-1 (high molecular weight polymer) blended with CAB-551-0.01 (low molecular weight polymer).

Cellulose acetate butyrate CAB-531-1 is a cellulose ester available from Eastman. CAB-531-1 is soluble in a wide range of solvents and is a relatively flexible resin that requires lower plasticizer modification than other less flexible resins. The reported properties of CAB-531-1 include the following:

properties of Typical value, unit

Butyryl content 50% by weight

Acetyl content 2.8% by weight

The hydroxyl content is 1.7 percent

Viscosity of the oil^a5.6 poise

Colour(s)^b 50ppm

Turbidity of water^b 15ppm

As the acidity of acetic acid, 0.02% by weight

The ash content is 0.05 percent

Refractive index 1.475

Heat testing of the Brown melt at 160 ℃ for 8 hours

Melting point of 135-

Glass transition temperature (Tg) 115 deg.C

Specific gravity of 1.17

Weight/volume (cast film) 1.17 kg/liter (9.75 lbs/gallon)

Bulk density

Poured 480 kg/cubic meter (30 pounds/cubic foot)

576 kg/m (36 lb/ft) of tap

Dielectric strength 787-984 kV/cm (2-2.5 kV/mil)

Molecular weight^cM_n 40000

Tukang hardness 15 Knoop

^aViscosity as determined by ASTM method D1343. The results were converted to poise (ASTM method D1343) using the solution density of formula a as described in ASTM method D817 (20% cellulose ester, 72% acetone, 8% ethanol).

^bThe color and turbidity of CAB solutions (color) and monodisperse latex suspensions (turbidity) using Pt-Co standards were determined. The analysis was performed with a Gardner type XL-835 colorimeter.

^cPolystyrene equivalent number average molecular weight as determined by gel permeation chromatography.

Cellulose acetate butyrate CAB-551-0.01 is a cellulose ester available from Eastman with high butyryl content and low ASTM (A) viscosity, which significantly affects the solubility and compatibility of cellulose acetate butyrate CAB-551-0.01. CAB-551-0.01 is soluble in styrene and methyl methacrylate monomers and is more tolerant of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbon diluents than higher viscosity materials. The solubility of CAB-551-0.01 in alcohol/aromatic hydrocarbon mixtures allows a wide selection of solvents and solvent combinations. CAB-551-0.01 is a dry, white free-flowing powder for convenient handling. Reported properties of CAB-551-0.01 include the following:

properties of Typical value, unit

Butyryl content 53% by weight

Acetyl content 2% by weight

The hydroxyl content is 1.5 percent

Viscosity of the oil^a 0.038 poise

Color 100ppm

Turbidity 25ppm

As the acidity of acetic acid, 0.02% by weight

Melting point 127-

Glass transition temperature (Tg) 85 deg.C

Carbonization point 260 deg.C

Weight/volume (cast film) 1.16 kg/liter (9.67 lbs/mil gallon)

Molecular weight^bM_n 16000

Tukang hardness 15 Knoop

^aViscosity as determined by ASTM method D1343. The results were converted to poise (ASTM method D1343) using the solution density of formula a as described in ASTM method D817 (20% cellulose ester, 72% acetone, 8% ethanol).

^bPolystyrene equivalent number average molecular weight as determined by gel permeation chromatography.

Calcium stearate is used as a lubricant in extrusion. This material mixes well with the fiber/thermoplastic matrix and assists flow through the extrusion die. The melting temperature of calcium stearate is close to that of the extruded substrate and lubricates the flow of the substrate through the die very well. It is believed that additional lubricants, such as other metal stearates and other waxes or commercial lubricants, are suitable alternatives to calcium stearate for extrusion and study in subsequent experiments. Lubricants that do not significantly interfere with termite feeding are preferred.

Processing the extruded fiber includes applying the pesticide to the fiber using a ribbon blender. A 50% concentration of hexaflumuron or noviflumuron was sprayed onto the fibers to ensure mixing of the insecticide with the fibers. The concentration is adjusted so that the concentration of the fibers relative to the total matrix composition is capable of delivering approximately 0.5% of the insecticide to the extruded composite. The amount of additional insecticide expected is included to compensate for the loss of insecticide during processing. The processing is also accomplished as follows: is mixed with the calcium stearate using air milling techniques and then the mixture is added to the composite fiber/thermoplastic. Another method of incorporating the insecticide is to compound the fibre and thermoplastic, then add calcium stearate and spray the insecticide throughout the matrix before extrusion. All methods produce finished extruded profiles containing the insecticide.

The manufacture of the extruded composite material is carried out in a batch process. The mixture was made by weighing the cellulose and fiber into a silo. About 80 pounds of these bins were dumped in batches to Gelimat for compounding. The compounded substrate was dumped from the Gelimat onto a conveyor belt, passed through compression rollers while the substrate was still hot to increase the bulk density of the substrate, and then broken into the feed for the extruder. Multiple batches of the same mixture were passed through the Gelimat and accumulated until extrusion. Extrusion was carried out in a 65 mm Cincinnati Milacron twin screw extruder with short connection to a 0.8 inch circular die. After exiting the die, the extruded rod passed through a cooling chamber and the profile was cooled with a chilled water spray. After cooling the chamber, the rod is passed through a puller, after which the rod is cut to a predetermined size. Table 2 below shows the composition and design of a set of composites made and tested.

TABLE 2 extrusion test on Teel Plastics

Teel Plastic, Barbaroo Wisconsin test, composition and conditions

Hexaflumuron ("Hexa") and

polyflufenoxuron ("Novi") as AI

Test #	Test (analysis of Al on fiber)	Extrusion temperature C	% cellulose	％CAB	% calcium stearate	Expected insecticide%	Analysis% weight/weight
								1	SolkaFloc particles/CAB	130-135	68.6	29.4	2	Blank space
2	1.6% Hexa SolkaFloc granules/CAB	130-135	68.6	29.4	2	0.63 or >)	0.78
								3	0.63 solid Hexa SolkaFloc granules/CAB	130-135	68.6	29.4	2	0.55 or >)	0.475
4	1.6% Novi SolkaFloc granules/CAB	130-135	68.6	29.4	2	0.63 or >)	0.774
								5	0.63% solids Novi SolkaFloc granules/CAB	130-135	68.6	29.4	2	0.55 or >)	0.502
6	1.26% liquid Novi SolkaFloc granules/CAB	130-135	68.6	29.4	2	0.55 or >)	0.628

Batches were made by mixing the fibers with CAB (50/50 blend of CAB 531-1 and CAB 551-0.01) and passing the batches through a Gelimat to compound the blend. After Gelimat mixing and heating, the batch was dumped on a conveyor belt to a pair of rollers to compress the composite mixture. The densified mixture is sent to a cutter to prepare a dry, composite feed material for an extruder. The combined Gelimat batches were then weighed and placed in a ribbon blender where calcium stearate was added. If the insecticide is added after compounding, the insecticide is mixed with calcium stearate and the mixture is added to the composite matrix. After mixing, the finished matrix was fed to a twin screw extruder and extruded to produce the final profile. The extruded profile was cooled in a spray can (about 30 feet long), passed through a caterpillar puller to keep the profile moving, and then cut to the desired length.

Formulation 1 (blank pre-extrusion) was prepared in run #1 as follows: solk aFloc particles (in Gelimat) were compounded with CAB in the absence of any insecticide. After compounding, calcium stearate was added, and the mixture was then extruded.

Formulation 2 (hexaflumuron on fiber) was prepared in test #2 as follows: a 50% strength hexaflumuron (liquid) was diluted with water and the diluted mixture was sprayed onto the SolkaFloc granules. The resulting mixture was then compounded, calcium stearate was added, and the mixture was then extruded.

Formulation 3 (hexaflumuron as a solid in calcium stearate) was prepared in test #3 as follows: solid milled industrial hexaflumuron (99 +% purity) was blended with calcium stearate and the mixture was compounded with the composite particle/CAB mixture and then extruded.

Formulation 4 (polyfluronide on fiber) was prepared in test #4 as follows: the same procedure as used to prepare formulation 2 was used except that the hexaflumuron 50% concentration was replaced by a polyfluorofencarb 50% concentration.

Formulation 5 (polyfluoromafenoxuron on calcium stearate) was prepared in test #5 as follows: the same procedure as used to prepare formulation 3 was used except that the commercial hexaflumuron was replaced with milled commercial polyfluorourea (99 +% purity).

Formulation 6 (polyfluronide sprayed on a composite substrate) was prepared in test #6 as follows: composite SolkaFloc particles (in Gelimat) with CAB. The calcium stearate was mixed with the post-compounding batch and then the diluted noviflumuron 50% concentration was spray applied. Finally the mixture is extruded.

Extrusion samples were prepared on a Teel Plastics. The fibers and plastic are mixed in a Gelimat (a high shear mixer for solids) to compound the fibers and plastic. The fibers and plastic were dumped into the Gelimat together, the cycle started and the high shear mixer mixed the components and melted the plastic to initiate the bonding of the thermoplastic to the fibers. This high shear mixing rapidly increases the temperature of the mixture in the Gelimat, driving off the water and melting the plastic combined with the fibers. The composite matrix was then mixed with calcium stearate lubricant and extruded through a Cincinnati Milacron 65 meter twin screw extruder. The die used varies and achieves greater or lesser success depending on the length and amount of movement of the die and the flow experienced by the extruded material as it passes through the die. We have found that generally the shorter the die length and the less obstruction to flow, the better for the extrusion. The incorporation of the active ingredient was optimized in an extruder on a Teel Plastics with a short through-die in which there were no obstacles like die holders (spiders) or shunts.

As described above and listed in Table 1, several Fibers supplied by International Fibers were investigated. In general, fiber length appears to have less impact on the profile produced. The greater effect is fiber density and form. Fibers with low bulk density are difficult to feed and handle. The particulate material flows well and is very easy to handle with minimal dusting.

Biological testing of samples prepared as described in example 1 was performed to test the palatability and efficacy of the prepared material. The study performed and discussed in more detail in examples 2 and 3 was a standard one-way continuous non-selective and limited selective exposure test. The samples were divided into two tests based on the active ingredient. Since the noviflumuron generally acts faster, the noviflumuron samples were tested for 4 weeks and the hexaflumuron samples were tested for 6 weeks. The extruded polyfluorinated chlorbenzuron-containing composite material exhibits toxicity to termites.

The experiments described in examples 2 and 3 demonstrate that the manufacturing process of the composite produces an extrusion monitor or bait that is well accepted by termites. The extruded composite was always better accepted than wood in all the biological tests performed. These studies also show that it is possible to incorporate active ingredients into extruded profiles and maintain insecticidal activity against termites.

Example 2

Acceptance and efficacy of extruded hexaflumuron composites

A one-way continuous non-selection and limited exposure selection test was conducted to determine the comparative consumption and efficacy of the extruded hexaflumuron formulation against subterranean termite species Reticulitermes flavipes within 42 days. Specifically, these experiments determined the feeding response (consumption-milligrams) and resulting mortality of subterranean termites, lutetium, in both the no-choice (study #1) and 7-day limited-choice feeding (study #2) tests on extruded composite formulations containing hexaflumuron

Study # 1-continuous forced-feed (no selection) Exposure

The test device comprises: standard one-way no-selection test. The equipment used for this experiment is shown in figure 8. The study was conducted in Walk-in covaron maintained at 26 ℃ and 60% RH. The experiment included 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 42 days. Three controls per treatment were kept for weight correction.

The types are as follows: coptotermes formosanus Shtrari

Rated consumption and survival after 6 weeks (42 days) of treatment

1. Extrude formulation 1-blank.

2. Hexaflumuron on 2-fiber of the formulation was extruded and analyzed 0.78%

3. Formulation 3-hexaflumuron was extruded as a solid in calcium stearate, analyzed-0.475%.

4. Blank PTC compact control.

5. Pieces of hexaflumuron (Shatter) PTC baits containing 0.5% hexaflumuron. Pieces of^TM(the dow Yinong company, USA) bait is a commercially available alpha-cellulose bullet (bullets) containing 0.5% hexaflumuron. The fragmented baits are also called "fragmented PTC baits" because the alpha-cellulose material comprised therein is called the preferred structural cellulose.

The term "blank" as used herein is intended to refer to a test material that does not include any hexaflumuron or any other active agent ("AI"). For example, the extruded formulation 1 in the above table is an extruded composite material comprising a defined cellulosic food material and a defined plastic matrix, but not including any AI. Similarly, the term "blank PTC compact control" refers to a compact of "preferred structural cellulose" ("PTC") that does not include any AI.

Results and discussion of study 1-continuous no selection:

TABLE 3 continuous forced-feed (no selection) Exposure

Feeding response of Reticulitermes flavipes to various bait matrix formulations and resulting efficacy after 42 days

For the continuous non-selection test (results listed in table 3), the yellow-legged termites readily consumed the extruded bait formulation, and the blank extruded bait was consumed at a rate significantly greater than the blank PTC. The hexaflumuron-containing formulations (formulations 2, 3 and chips) were consumed at a rate less than the blank extruded material (formulation 1) in the 42 day trial, but this lesser consumption was likely to affect the consumption rate of the 42 day trial due to the toxic effects of hexaflumuron in these formulations. The hexaflumuron-containing formulations had significant mortality compared to the controls, but they were not significantly different from each other. According to the figures, extruded formulation 2 had a corrected mortality rate of 80.64% after a maximum of 42 days, followed by 69.34% extruded formulation 3 and 64.19% chips. It should be noted that surviving termites exposed to the extruded formulation containing hexaflumuron had symptoms of a chitin synthesis inhibitor effect, and could appear slow/sick and pale in color. Live termites exposed to the blank extruded material appeared normal in appearance. Consistent with the current study, the blank extruded formulation control (formulation 1) was more significantly consumed than the blank PTC compact control, and there was more survival of the blank extruded material according to the number.

Study # 2-limiting selection Exposure

The test device comprises: standard one-way paired selection efficacy tests were performed against untreated southern yellow pine (SYP-1/2 inch size). The apparatus used for this experiment is shown in figure 9. The study was conducted in Walk-in covaron maintained at 26 ℃ and 60% RH. The test included 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 42 days. After 7 days, the composite and SYP were removed and replaced with a blank filter paper for the remaining duration of the test. Three controls per treatment were kept for weight correction.

The types are as follows: coptotermes formosanus Shtrari

Rated consumption and survival after 6 weeks (42 days) of treatment

1. Extrude formulation 1-blank.

2. Hexaflumuron on 2-fiber of the formulation was extruded and analyzed 0.78%

3. Formulation 3-hexaflumuron was extruded as a solid in calcium stearate, analyzed-0.475%.

4. Blank PTC compact control.

5. A fragmented PTC bait containing 0.5% hexaflumuron.

Results and discussion of study 2: limiting the selective exposure:

table 4: selection feeding/efficacy test

Comparative feeding response of Reticulitermes flavipes to various bait matrix formulations and untreated SYP after 7 days and resulting efficacy after 42 days

The selection-limited trial results (table 4) show that all treatments were significantly more depleted than SYP. The control did not perform well in this limited selection test. The survival results of this limited selection test are similar to those found in the continuous no selection test (table 3), with the extruded formulation containing hexaflumuron being significantly better than the extruded blank and numerically better than the chips.

The results from these two tests show that extruded hexaflumuron formulations are readily accepted and consumed at very high rates, and that extruded formulations containing hexaflumuron are preferred over SYP. Furthermore, the extruded formulations containing hexaflumuron had significantly higher activity than the control, and were numerically higher but statistically similar to the chips. Termite mortality was numerically higher but statistically similar for the extruded + hexaflumuron formulation versus the chip bait.

Example 3

Acceptance and efficacy of extruded Polyflufenoureide composites

Single phase continuous non-selection (study #1) and limited selective exposure (study #2) tests were performed to determine the comparative consumption and efficacy of the new extruded polyfluorofencarb formulations against Reticulitermes flavipes within 28 days. These tests were designed to quantify the palatability and efficacy measurements of the new extruded composite containing polyfluorofemorate in order to determine the feeding response (consumption-milligrams) and resulting mortality of subterranean termite, lutetium termes in a no-choice and 7-day restriction-choice feeding test on the new extruded formulations containing polyfluorofemorate.

Study # 1-continuous forced-feed (no selection) Exposure

The test device comprises: standard one-way no-selection test. The test apparatus is shown in FIG. 8. The study was conducted in Walk-in covaron maintained at 26 ℃ and 60% RH. The test included 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 28 days. Three controls per treatment were kept for weight correction.

The types are as follows: coptotermes formosanus Shtrari

Rated consumption and survival after 4 weeks (28 days) of treatment

1. Formulation 1-blank control was extruded.

2. Polyflufenoxuron extruded from 4-fiber preparation, assay 0.774%

3. Formulation 5-polyfluorogonide on calcium stearate was extruded, assay 0.502%.

4. Formulation 6-Polyflufenoxuron sprayed onto a composite substrate, analyzed at 0.628%.

5. Recraut IV PTC poison bait containing 0.5% novaluron

6. And (4) blank PTC briquetting.

Results and discussion of study 1: continuous no selection:

TABLE 5 continuous forced-feed (no selection) Exposure

Feeding response of Reticulitermes flavipes to various bait matrix formulations and resulting efficacy after 28 days

For the continuous non-selection test (results are listed in table 5), Reticulitermes flavipes tended to consume extruded bait formulations containing the polyfluramid ureides at a rate statistically equivalent to that of the blank PTC compacts. The consumption of recuit IV was significantly less than the extruded formulation, but this lower consumption was likely due to the earlier onset of the toxic effect of the noviflumuron in the recuit IV bait. Recruit IV has a significant maximum mortality rate after 28 days of 25.5 survival/100 (corrected mortality rate 70.60%) on average. It should be noted that surviving termites exposed to Recrucit IV are very ill and nearly dead. The extruded formulations containing the noviflumuron (formulations 4, 5 and 6) all had similar activity significantly better than the control, with the corrected mortality rate for all three formulations being very consistently in the 39-41% range. After 28 days, it should be noted that some surviving termites exposed to the extruded polyfluoromid formulation were very slow and showed toxic effects, while some appeared normal. These observations were similar on the three formulations. It is interesting to note that the blank extruded formulation (formulation 1) was even significantly more consumed than the blank PTC compact and there was numerically more survival of the blank extruded material, indicating that the extruded formulation was sufficient to nourish the white ants.

Study # 2-limiting selection Exposure

The test device comprises: standard one-way paired selection efficacy test was relative to untreated southern yellow pine (SYP 1/2 inch size). The test apparatus is shown in FIG. 9. The study was conducted in a Walk-in Conviron maintained at 26 ℃ and 60% RH. The test included 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 28 days. After 7 days, the bait matrix treatment and SYP were removed and replaced with a blank filter paper for the remaining duration of the test. Three controls per treatment were kept for weight correction.

The types are as follows: coptotermes formosanus Shtrari

1. Extruded formulation 1-blank relative SYP

2. Extrusion of formulation 4-Polyflufenoxuron on fiber, assay 0.774% relative SYP

3. Extrusion of formulation 5-Polyflufenoxuron on calcium stearate, assay 0.502% relative SYP

4. Extrusion of formulation 6-Polyflufenoxuron sprayed onto a composite substrate, assay 0.628% relative SYP

5. Recraut IV PTC bait-contrast SYP containing 0.5% novaluron

6. Blank PTC briquette control relative SYP

Results and discussion of study 2: limiting the selective exposure:

the selection-limited test results (table 6) show that all treatments were more significantly consumed than SYP, except for formulation 4. High SYP consumption (40.4 mg) and a high mean Standard Error (SEM) of 32.1 in this selection comparison are considered errors caused when drying the samples in the oven. Some SYP samples lost visually excess juice during oven drying, which could lead to a higher SEM. Furthermore, SYP samples showed little to no visible depletion when examined. Survival results of the treatments were similar to what we see in the continuous no-selection trial (Recircuit IV > extruded Polyflufenoureide formulation > control); however, overall all treatments in this study, including the control, had more termite deaths. Two different colonies of Reticulitermes flavipes were used in the restriction selection test compared to that used in the continuous non-selection test, and the colony differences are likely to be responsible for the lower overall survival in the restriction selection test. Conditions for survival were visibly similar to those seen in our serial nonselective trial, with Recircuit IV survival approaching death, while some extruded polyfluramid survived visibly slow and affected, while some appeared normal. Again, these visual effects are similar for the three extrusion processes.

The results from these two tests show that extruded polyfluramid formulations are readily accepted and consumed at very high rates similar to the blank PTC. The extruded composite had significant activity compared to the control, but was less active compared to the Recruit IV containing 0.5% polyfluramid at 28 days. The three extruded polyfluoromid ureide formulations were statistically similar in efficacy for both trials, and all had significant activity compared to the control. The lower activity at 28 days is most likely due to the bioavailability of the novaluron in the extruded formulation. A more biocompatible modified formulation is expected to achieve activity similar to Recruit IV.

Example 4

Preparation of extruded composites

(test 2)

A second set of composite batches was made using the same raw materials as described in example 1. Table 7 below shows the composition and design of the second set of composites produced.

TABLE 7

Test of #	Test (analysis of AI on fiber)	Extrusion temperature C	Cellulose, process for producing the same, and process for producing the same ％	Cellulose, process for producing the same, and process for producing the same Weight (D)	％ CAB	CAB Weight (D)
							7	SolkaFloc granule/CAB blank modified L die	130-135	68.6	480.20	29.4	205.8
8	Improved L-die for spraying 0.85% NovisolkaFloc granule/CAB Polyflufenoureide onto cellulose	130-135	68.6	1577.80	29.4	676.2
							9	0.85% HexSolkaFloc granules/CAB hexaflumuron sprayed onto cellulose modified L die	130-135	68.6	192.08	29.4	82.32

Table 7 (continuation)

Test of #	Hard fat Calcium salts	Lubricant agent Weight (D)	Rate of processing Feet per minute	Anticipation of ％	Analysis of	Batch ruler Inch pound	The maximum Ft.	Number of parts
									7	2	14	10 to 15	Blank space	0 test	700	1951.4	1672.63
8	2	46	10 to 15	0.5	0.79% in the first part of the test	2300	6411.75	5495.79
									9	2	5.6	10 to 15	0.5	0.58% test	280	780.561	669.053

The extruded composites produced in runs 7-9 are referred to herein as formulations 7-9, respectively. The bioassay of these formulations 7-9 was performed as discussed in more detail in examples 5-9 below.

Example 5

Acceptability and efficacy of extruded hexaflumuron composites against two subterranean termite species

Extruded hexaflumuron treatment formulations as described in example 4 (sprayed onto cellulose formulations) were tested for efficacy against Reticulitermes flavipes and Termite Taiwan (C.formosanus).

The test device comprises: standard one-way no-selection efficacy tests were performed using cups, 4 or 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 28, 42 or 56 days. All studies were performed in a Walk-in Conviron maintained at 26 ℃ and 60% RH. Three controls per treatment were kept for weight correction.

The types are as follows: coptotermes flavipes and Coptotermes formosanus (2 colonies of each species used in each experiment)

Treatment-consumption and survival rated at 6 weeks (42 days):

1. extruded formulation 7-blank

2. Extrusion formulation 9-hexaflumuron sprayed onto cellulose, assay 0.58%

3. PTC poison bait in pieces containing 0.5% hexaflumuron

Each test was repeated 6 times with 100 termites/repetition. Thus, three non-selection tests x 6 replicates of 18 unidirectional units and 1800 termites (yellow-leg and taiwan termites) were installed per species. Thus, for 2 species, 36 unidirectional units and 3600 termites were required.

As a result: the results are shown in tables 8 (Braytonema lutea) and 9 (Taiwan termites).

Similar to what was seen previously, the yellow-legged termites actively feed on the extruded formulation, and the consumption of the extruded formulation containing hexaflumuron (formulation 9) was significantly greater than the chips. Although the mortality rate of the extruded formulation sprayed onto cellulose (formulation 9) was significantly less than that of the splits, at the conclusion of the study (42 days) the overall calibration control for formulation 9 was as high as 88.84%, slightly less than the 96.16% splits. Control of yellow-leg termites was greater in this test than previously seen, and this may be due to a higher percentage of hexaflumuron (0.58%) or possible termite colony differences. Debris also had greater efficacy in this study, which may be related to changes in different termite populations or may be related to the time of year in which these tests were conducted (the study was conducted late in the spring/early in the summer as compared to the earlier study conducted late in the winter/early in the spring). The trend for taiwan termites (table 9) was similar to our previous survey of extruded polyfluoromid ureide formulations. The feeding of the extruded formulation with hexaflumuron was greater than the chips; however, the fragmentation efficacy was significantly higher. The overall efficacy of the study was lower and it may be desirable to have the study last longer, but since the controls began to decrease (which sometimes occurred during these longer-term laboratory studies), it was decided to abort at 42 days.

Example 6

Acceptability and efficacy of extruded polyfluorofencarb composites for two subterranean termite species

Extruded polyfluoromiasis ureide treatment formulations (higher assay sprayed onto cellulose formulations) were tested for efficacy against Reticulitermes flavipes and Termite Taiwan.

The test device comprises: standard one-way no-selection efficacy tests were performed using cups, 4 or 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 28, 42 or 56 days. All studies were performed in a Walk-in Conviron maintained at 26 ℃ and 60% RH. Three controls per treatment were maintained for weight correction. Study #1 was a 6 week trial and study #2 was an 8 week trial.

The types are as follows: coptotermes flavipes and Coptotermes formosanus (2 colonies of each species used in each experiment)

Treatment (all trials) -graded depletion and survival after 6 weeks (42 days) for study #1 and 8 weeks (56 days) for study # 2:

1. extruded formulation 7-blank

2. Extrusion formulation 8 spray to cellulose-Polyflufenoxuron 0.79%

3. Recircuit IV PTC with 0.5% noviflumuron

Each test was repeated 6 times with 100 termites/repetition. For all tests combined, 6(3 treatments x 2 tests/treatment) non-selection devices x 6 replicates-36 unidirectional units with cups and 3600 termites were established per species. Thus, for 2 species, a total of 72 unidirectional units with cups and 7200 termites were required.

As a result:

results for yellow-leg termites (table 10) show that the higher assay of the spray-to-formulation (0.79% polyfluoroferamide) had higher consumption than Recruit IV for the 42-day and 56-day studies, and that the efficacy at 42 days was similar (65.77% compared to 69.48%, NSD, binary logistic regression), only slightly less; for Recruit IV at day 56, 87.58% compared to 100% of the corrected control, however the difference was significant (binary logistic regression).

Also similar to what was found in the previously completed study, taiwan termites consumed significantly more of the extruded formulation than Recruit IV, but extruded formulation 8 (0.79% analyzed as polyfluorofencylurea sprayed onto cellulose) had a significantly lower corrected mortality rate compared to the control, with the result that 0% of formulation 8 compared to 48.21% of Recruit IV at 42 days and 31.99% of formulation 8 compared to 85.14% of Recruit IV (table 11). These laboratory results again demonstrate recent reports from laboratory field trials using extruded materials for taiwan termites.

In general, extrusion formulations containing hexaflumuron or noviflumuron consumed significantly more than the splits and Recruit IV for Reticulitermes flavipes and Taiwan termites. This is true for spraying onto cellulose and incorporating cellulose extrusion formulations. The difference in consumption between the two extruded formulations was not very different for either species, however, when comparing the different tests, the yellow-legged termites consumed numerically more extruded material than the taiwan termites. Depending on the test, the average consumption of one of the extruded formulations may be more in one evaluation, then the other extruded formulation may be consumed more in the same test when rated for different time periods (i.e. 42 days versus 56 days) -there is no obvious preference between formulations (spray to cellulose versus incorporation of cellulose for either species).

Extruded formulations of hexaflumuron compared to shards, and noviflumuron compared to Recruit IV, the mortality rate was most often significantly less (binary logistic regression analysis). This is especially true for taiwan termites whose controls are much less (highly visible) than debris or Recruit IV. For zoophophora luteus, the difference was not as great, and in some tests, the efficacy was not significantly different compared to the debris or Recruit IV.

Example 7

Acceptability and efficacy of extruded polyflouse ureide and hexaflumuron composites for multiple subterranean termite species

The extruded AI-containing composites were tested for palatability and efficacy against a number of different termite species to determine whether the key subterranean termite species southern termites (Reticulitermes virginicus), taiwan termites, western termites (Reticulitermes Hesperus), yellow thorny termites (Reticulitermes sperus) and golden heterotrimenters (Reticulitermes aureus) consumed (in mg) less of the extruded formulations containing AI polyfluorooctanoyl urea or hexaflumuron than the commercial AI-containing toxicant in a non-selective laboratory test, and whether the extruded formulations containing AI polyfluorooctanoyl urea or hexaflumuron caused significantly lower mortality in the non-selective laboratory test than the commercial golden baits (p 0.05, binary logistic regression) of the key subterranean termite species southern termites, taiwan termites, western termites, yellow thoroughbred and heterotrimenteric termites. The data were examined at 4, 6 and 8 weeks comparing the test for extruded composites containing polyfluronides with Recircuit IV. The test comparing extruded composites containing hexaflumuron with the chip bait examines the data at 6 weeks.

Study # 1: consumption and efficacy of extruded polyflouse ureide formulations against additional termite species

The types are as follows: southern termite, Taiwan termite, West termite, and golden heterothermite

The test device comprises: single phase continuous no-selection test, 4-8 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, 4 and/or, 6 and/or, 8 weeks data (southern termites and taiwan termites-4, 6 and 8 weeks data; western termites and golden heterotrimes-only 6 weeks data)

Treatment of

1. Extruded formulation 1-blank

2. Novi on extruded formulation 4-fiber^*，0.774％

3. Novi, 0.502% on extrusion formulation 5-calcium stearate

4. Extrusion formulation 6-Novi spray to composite matrix^**，0.628％

5. Recraut IV PTC poison bait containing 0.5% novaluron

6. Blank PTC briquette control

^*Spraying to cellulose powder, compressing, and then breaking into granules (granules or pellets)

^**Active preformed granules (granules or pellets) as a spray

Remarking: for taiwan termites, formulation 4 was not tested as there was no more material available.

For both western termites and golden heterotermes, only formulations 1, 2 and 5 were tested due to low termite availability.

The feeding response data for southern termite species are listed in table 12 below:

the survival data for southern termites at 4, 6 and 8 weeks are presented in figures 10, 11 and 12, respectively.

The feeding response data for the taiwan-like termites are listed in table 13 below:

survival data for taiwan termites at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, and 8 weeks are presented in fig. 13, 14, and 15, respectively.

Feeding response data for the golden isotretinoids are listed in table 14 below:

the survival data for golden heterothermite at 6 weeks is presented in fig. 16.

Feeding response data for the type of western termites are listed in table 15 below:

the survival data for siberian termites at 6 weeks is shown in fig. 17.

In addition to the above, similar tests were conducted in japan to test the consumption and efficacy of extruded composites containing polyfluorofencarb against the subterranean termite species Reticulitermes flavipes. The results of these tests (data not shown) indicate that Reticulitermes formosanus consuming more extruded composite than Recircuit IV at 4 and 6 weeks in the non-selective laboratory test and survived more than Recircuit IV but less than the control after exposure to the polyfluoroferaxin-containing extruded composite.

Study # 2: consumption and efficacy of extruded hexaflumuron formulations against additional termite species

The types are as follows: southern termite, Taiwan termite, West termite, and golden heterothermite

The test device comprises: single phase continuous no-selection test, 4-7 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, 6 and/or 10 weeks data (Taiwan termites only)

Treatment of

1. Extruded formulation 1-blank

2. Extruded formulation 2^*0.78% Hex on fiber

3. Extrusion of 0.475% Hex in formulation calcium 3-stearate

4. Chip bait containing 0.5% hexaflumuron

5. Blank PTC pellet control

^*Spraying to cellulose powder, compressing, and then breaking into granules (granules or pellets)

Remarking: for both western termites and golden heterotermes, only formulations 1, 2 and 4 were tested due to low termite availability.

The feeding response data for southern termite species are listed in table 16 below:

the survival data for southern termites at 6 weeks is shown in fig. 18.

The feeding response data for the taiwan-like termites are listed in table 17 below:

the survival data for taiwan termites at 10 weeks is presented in fig. 19.

Feeding response data for the golden isotretinoids are listed in table 18 below:

the survival data for golden isotretinoids at 45 days is presented in fig. 20.

Feeding response data for the western species termites are listed in table 19 below:

the survival data for siberian termites at 6 weeks is shown in fig. 21.

As shown by the data listed above, the key subterranean termite species southern termites, taiwan termites, western termites and golden heterotrimes consumed (in milligrams) more (p ═ 0.1) extruded formulations containing noviflumuron than recrudett IV at 4, 6 and 8 weeks in the non-selection laboratory test, and the subterranean termite species southern termites, taiwan termites, western termites and golden heterotrimes consumed (in milligrams) more (p ═ 0.1) extruded formulations containing hexaflumuron than the chips at 6 weeks in the non-selection laboratory test. While the polyfluoromid ureide containing composites generally resulted in lower mortality rates for the tested subterranean termite species at 4, 6 and 8 weeks in the non-selective laboratory test as compared to Recruit IV, the polyfluoromid ureide containing composites did result in greater mortality rates than the control, thus demonstrating that the extruded composites are an effective means of delivering this AI to the termites. Extruded composites containing hexaflumuron caused similar levels of mortality to some of the subterranean termite species tested at 6 weeks in a non-selective laboratory test as compared to shards (p 0.05, binary logistic regression). While the extruded composites containing hexaflumuron caused lower mortality to other termite species than the debris, the extruded composites containing hexaflumuron did cause higher mortality levels to these species than the control, thus demonstrating that the extruded composites are an effective means of delivering the AI to termites.

Example 8

Cross-feeding migration of extruded insecticidal composites

The extruded AI-containing composites were compared to commercial AI-containing bait materials to determine if they caused significant mortality to the yellow-leg termites after 6 and/or 8 weeks of exposure in the cross-feed migration study.

The types are as follows: coptotermes formosanus Shtrari

The test device comprises:

step 1: one-way continuous non-selective device exposed to extruded material

Each trial had 6 replicates per treatment

Test 1 ═ 6 weeks

Test 2-8 weeks

50 Termite/replicate for 7 days

Step 2: devices tested at 6 and 8 weeks:

from step 1, 6 replicates/treatments were used and the extruded material was replaced with 0.5 inch x1 inch MD-499 sheets.

50 unexposed termites (from the same colony barrel) were added for each replicate/treatment for a total of 100 termites/replicate.

6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, for 42 days (6 weeks).

Another 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, were run for 56 days (8 weeks).

And (3) treatment:

polyflufenoxuron research

1. Extruded formulation 1-blank

2. Polyflufenoxuron extruded from 4-fiber preparation, assay 0.774%

3. Polyflufenoxuron on formulation 5-calcium stearate was extruded, assay 0.502%

4. Recraut IV PTC poison bait containing 0.5% novaluron

5. Blank PTC briquette control

Hexaflumuron research

1. Extruded formulation 1-blank

2. Hexaflumuron on 2-fiber of the formulation was extruded and analyzed 0.78%

3. The formulation 3-hexaflumuron was extruded as a solid in calcium stearate and analyzed at 0.475%

4. Blank PTC briquette control

5. PTC poison bait in pieces containing 0.5% hexaflumuron

The data from the cross study are presented in figures 22, 23, 24 and 25, where figures 22 and 23 are plots of the number of survivors at 6 and 8 weeks for each type of material tested in the polyfurfenozide study, respectively, and figures 24 and 25 are plots of the number of survivors at 6 and 8 weeks for each type of material tested in the hexaflumuron study, respectively. The data presented in FIGS. 22-25 show that the polyfluorourea and hexaflumuron 50: 50 cross-migration study for 7 days and continued for 6 and 8 weeks had significant mortality in the treatments compared to the blanks.

Example 9

Acceptability and efficacy of extruded insecticidal composites comprising spinosad and fipronil

Tests were conducted to determine if extruded composites including quick-acting AIs (spinosad and fipronil) caused significantly higher mortality rates to zoototermes formosanus and large termites compared to the control (p 0.05, binary logistic regression). The extrusion materials used in this study were prepared as described above, except that the AI included in the extrusion was spinosad or fipronil as follows: formulation 10 included 0.05% spinosad, formulation 11 included 0.01% fipronil, formulation 12 included 0.03% fipronil, formulation 13 included 0.05% fipronil and formulation 14 included 0.1% fipronil,

the types are as follows: yellow-limb termite and big termite (C. curvignathus)

Coptotermes flavipes (2 tests)

The test device comprises: standard one-way no-selection and selection tests (compared to SYP), 6 replicates, 100 termites/replicate, were performed for 14 days. Two colonies of yellow-legged termites were used.

Treatment (two trials):

1. extrusion preparation 7 (blank)

2. Extrusion preparation 10 (0.05% spinosad)

3. Extrusion preparation 11 (0.01% fipronil)

4. Extrusion preparation 12 (0.03% fipronil)

5. Extrusion preparation 13 (0.05% fipronil)

6. Extrusion preparation 14 (0.1% fipronil)

The results of these tests are presented in fig. 26, 27 and 28, where fig. 26 lists results for extruded composites consumed by zootella lutescens at 14 days in the non-selection test, fig. 27 lists survival results at 14 days in the non-selection test, and fig. 28 lists survival results at 14 days in the selection test versus SYP. As these results show, the extruded composite comprising the rapid-acting AI spinosad and fipronil resulted in a significantly high mortality rate to zoophophora lutescens after 2 weeks in laboratory selection and non-selection tests compared to the control.

Large scale termite test

The test device comprises: one-way no-choice consumption and efficacy, 4 replicates/treatment. Evaluated at 7 days post treatment.

And (3) treatment:

1. extrusion preparation 10 (0.05% spinosad)

2. Extrusion preparation 11 (0.01% fipronil)

3. Extrusion preparation 12 (0.03% fipronil)

4. Extrusion preparation 13 (0.05% fipronil)

5. Extrusion preparation 14 (0.1% fipronil)

Extruded bait consumption data for large termites after 7 days are provided in table 20 below.

Watch 20

Treatment of	Mean ± s.d. (mg)
		Rubber wood (untreated)	11.65±12.42
Formulation 10 (0.05% spinosad)	2.58±1.10
		Preparation 11 (0.01% fipronil)	6.75±6.83
Preparation 12 (0.03% fipronil)	3.88±6.17
		Formulation 13 (0.05% fipronil)	4.28±11.55
Preparation 14 (0.1% fipronil)	5.63±6.35

Percent survival data for large termite workers (worker term) at 7 days are provided in table 21 below.

TABLE 21

Treatment of	Average (%)
		Rubber wood (untreated)	100
Formulation 10 (0.05% spinosad)	46.5
		Preparation 11 (0.01% fipronil)	0
Preparation 12 (0.03% fipronil)	0
		Formulation 13 (0.05% fipronil)	0
Preparation 14 (0.1% fipronil)	25.5

Mortality rates were obtained within 1-2 days for the most part when baits were introduced. Spinosyn baits are the only treatments in which some sand/vermiculite particles are found in the foraging chamber and some termites reject passage through the foraging chamber, possibly illustrating some obstacles. All termites in the chamber containing fipronil bait (formulation 11, formulation 12 and formulation 13) were killed except formulation 14 (25% survival). As can be seen from the above, the extruded composite material comprising the fast acting AI spinosad and fipronil caused a high mortality rate to large termites after 1 week in the laboratory non-selection test compared to the control.

Example 10

Termite colony eradication study

In-field testing was conducted to determine when an extruded Polyflufenoxuron and/or hexaflumuron bait matrix was placed in an active (acitve) buried senseWhile in the station, it destroys subterranean termite colonies and determines the amount of time required to complete colony destruction and the amount of bait consumed. The extruded material used in this study was prepared as described above and provided in the form of rods, each having a mass of about 75 grams. The materials used in this test were as follows: formulation 15 sticks included 0.58% hexaflumuron and formulation 16 sticks included 0.78% noviflumuron.

The test device comprises: the termite colony was exposed to an AI-containing extruded composite rod having a mass of about 75 grams. As a reference point, the Recruit IV bait tube has a mass of about 65 grams.

Termite species tested: white-leg white-eared white-ear.

And (3) treatment:

1. formulation 150.58% hexaflumuron stick (extruded bait matrix)

2. Formulation 160.78% Polyflufenoxuron stick (extruded bait matrix)

Results/discussion:

table 22 lists data for each of the 15 eradication tests, including the state of the united states in which the test was conducted, the termite type tested, the formulation tested, the amount consumed (number of bars), and the number of days of colony eradication. Further, comparisons of the annihilation data with Recruit IV are provided in fig. 29, 30, and 31, where fig. 29 compares the average number of days of annihilation between Recruit IV (RIV) and formulation 16, fig. 30 compares the average number of grams of bait consumed for annihilation between Recruit IV (RIV) and formulation 16, and fig. 31 compares the average number of grams of bait consumed for annihilation after rejection between Recruit IV (RIV) and formulation 16 at the percentage of AI in the AI-containing extruded composite matrix.

TABLE 22

Test #	Position of	Species of	Preparation	Consumption (of stick #)	Number of days to kill
						1	Florida state	Coptotermes formosanus Shtrari	Preparation 16	0.70	120
2	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Preparation 16	0.07	198
						3	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Preparation 16	0.05	198
4	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Preparation 16	0.04	142
						5	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Formulation 15	0.04	142
6	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Formulation 15	0.30	198
						7	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Preparation 16	0.06	142
8	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Preparation 16	Is not obtained	Is not obtained
						9	Florida state	Hardgrove scattered termite	Preparation 16	0.05	120
10	Louisiana state	Taiwan Jia Termite	Preparation 16	2.6	209
						11	State of mississippi	Coptotermes formosanus Shtrari	Preparation 16	0.31	166
12	State of mississippi	Coptotermes formosanus Shtrari	Preparation 16	0.21	121
						13	Indiana	Coptotermes formosanus Shtrari	Preparation 16	3.20	343
14	State of mississippi	Southern termite scattering	Preparation 16	0.05	121
						15	State of california	West termitomyces albuminosus (berk.) Heim	Preparation 16	0.01	121

The data set forth above shows that the AI-containing extruded composite does indeed exterminate termite colonies. The average number of days to extinction for all trials was 188 and a maximum of 343, both within the desired parameters. The number of consumed baits was 0.37 rods on average and 2.6 rods at maximum. For Reticulitermes flavipes and Taiwan termites, AI consumption is roughly comparable, but for other species greatly reduced. These tests were started late in autumn/winter, so the results were worst case.

While the several embodiments have been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the selected embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that would occur to those skilled in the art and that are within the scope of the invention described herein or defined by the claims are desired to be protected. Any theory, mechanism of operation, proof, or finding stated herein is meant to further enhance understanding of the present application and is not intended to limit the present invention in any way to such theory, mechanism of operation, proof, or finding. In addition, various procedures, techniques, and operations may be changed, rearranged, substituted, deleted, duplicated, or combined as would occur to those skilled in the art. In addition, any U.S. patent, pending U.S. patent application publication, or other publication referenced herein is incorporated by reference in its entirety as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference in its entirety and is incorporated herein by reference, including, but not limited to, international patent application No. PCT/US03/08690 filed on day 3/21 of 2003, U.S. patent No.7,212,129 filed on day 21 of 2002, U.S. patent No.7,262,702 filed on day 8/9 of 2001, international patent application No. PCT/US00/26373 filed on day 9/25 of 2000, international patent application No. PCT/US99/16519 filed on day 7/21 of 1999, U.S. patent application No.6,724,312 filed on day 9/25 of 2000, and U.S. published patent application No.2001/0033230 filed on day 20 of 2001. In reading the claims, words such as the word "a", the word "at least one", and the word "at least a portion" are not intended to limit the claims to only one item unless specifically indicated to the contrary. Furthermore, when the language "at least a portion" and/or "a portion" is used, the claims can include a portion and/or all of the item unless specifically indicated to the contrary.

References to any particular orientation, for example, to the up (upper), down (down), lower (lower), etc., are to be understood for illustrative purposes only or to better identify or distinguish various components from one another. Unless specifically indicated to the contrary, all terms used herein are intended to include their ordinary and customary terminology. Further, although various specific embodiments of insect prevention devices having specific components and structures are described and illustrated herein, it should be understood that any selected specific embodiment can include one or more of the specific components and/or structures described for another specific embodiment (when possible).

Claims (28)

1. A pest control device, comprising:

a bait useful for consumption or removal by one or more pest species; and

a cavity at least partially enclosing said bait;

wherein the bait comprises a composite material formed from an extruded mixture comprising cellulose acetate butyrate, alpha cellulose, and an insecticide selected from hexaflumuron or novaluron; and

wherein the composite material comprises 5 to 50 wt% of a plastic structural matrix comprising cellulose acetate butyrate; from 50% to 85% by weight of a cellulosic food material contained within the matrix, the cellulosic food material being palatable to pests and comprising alpha cellulose; and 0.001 to 5% by weight of a pesticide toxic to pests contained within the matrix.

2. The pest control device of claim 1, wherein the composite material exhibits a higher palatability than untreated wood in a standard one-way pair selection test.

3. The pest control device of claim 1, wherein the plastic structural matrix comprises a mixture of cellulose acetate butyrate having 50 to 75 monomer units and cellulose acetate butyrate having 150 to 300 monomer units.

4. The pest control device of claim 1, wherein the plastic structural matrix comprises a mixture of at least two different polymers.

5. The pest control device of claim 1, wherein the pest is one or more termites.

6. The pest control device of claim 1, further comprising a pest sensing circuit.

7. The pest control device of claim 1, wherein the plastic structural substrate is rigid.

8. A pest control system comprising at least two pest control devices, each of the two pest control devices being located apart from the other within an area to be controlled for one or more pests, at least one of the pest control devices comprising the pest control device according to claim 1.

9. A method of pest control comprising:

providing a pest control device according to claim 1, and

the device is installed in an area to be pest controlled.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the pest control device further comprises a pest sensor and a communication circuit coupled to the pest sensor.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the pest sensor for the pest control device includes a pest sensing circuit, wherein the pest sensing circuit includes a conductive loop arranged to change during consumption or movement of the bait for the pest control device, wherein the loop is coupled to the communication circuit to provide a two-state signal, wherein a first state of the signal corresponds to a powered-off condition of the loop and a second state of the signal corresponds to a powered-on condition of the loop.

12. A method of making a composite material comprising:

providing a mixture of 5 to 50 wt% of a thermoplastic polymer having a softening or melting point of 220 ℃ or less, 50 to 85 wt% of a cellulosic food material comprising cellulose acetate butyrate, and 0.001 to 5 wt% of an insecticide comprising one selected from hexaflumuron or novaluron;

extruding the mixture to provide a workpiece having a desired shape; and

cooling the workpiece to a temperature below the softening point or melting point of the thermoplastic polymer to provide a solid composite article.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the heated mixture further comprises a plasticizer.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the providing comprises mixing a polymer, a food material, and a pesticide to form a mixture, and compounding the mixture at high pressure and high temperature to form a molten material.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the mixture further comprises a lubricant.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the lubricant is calcium stearate.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein the method includes: (a) adding a food material and an insecticide to an extruder mixing vessel; (b) contacting a hot thermoplastic polymer with the food material and pesticide to produce a food material/pesticide/thermoplastic polymer mixture; and (c) contacting the food material/insecticide/thermoplastic polymer mixture with a die to provide a shape to the food material/insecticide/thermoplastic polymer mixture and to prepare a workpiece.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the mixing vessel is a twin screw extruder.

19. A composite material, comprising:

a structure formed from an extruded mixture comprising:

5 to 50 weight% of cellulose acetate butyrate;

from 50 to 85% by weight of a cellulosic food material comprising alpha cellulose, and

0.001 to 5% by weight of an insecticide comprising one selected from hexaflumuron or noviflumuron;

wherein the composite is useful for consumption or removal by pests.

20. The composite of claim 19, wherein the composite is a monitor or bait for a pest control device.

21. The composite of claim 19, wherein the composite exhibits a higher palatability compared to untreated wood in a standard unidirectional pair selection test.

22. The method of claim 12, wherein the composite material exhibits a higher palatability compared to untreated wood in a standard one-way paired choice test.

23. A pest control device, the device comprising:

a bait useful for consumption or removal by one or more pest species; and

a cavity at least partially enclosing said bait;

wherein the bait comprises from 5 to 50 wt% of a thermoplastic polymer comprising cellulose acetate butyrate, from 50 to 85 wt% of a cellulosic food material comprising alpha cellulose, and from 0.001 to 5 wt% of an insecticide comprising one selected from hexaflumuron or novaluron; and

wherein the polymer is suitable for molding at a temperature that does not render the function of the insecticide ineffective.

24. The pest control device of claim 23, wherein the polymer has a melting point of 220 ℃ or less.

25. The pest control device of claim 23, wherein the polymer has a melting point of 200 ℃ or less.

26. The pest control device of claim 23, wherein the polymer has a melting point of 180 ℃ or less.

27. The pest control device of claim 23, wherein the polymer has a melting point of 160 ℃ or less.

28. The pest control device of claim 23, wherein the polymer has a melting point of 140 ℃ or less.