What are the differences between Methyl Bromide and Phosphine gas ?
Methyl Bromide (MBr) is a liquid under pressure that turns into a gas when released after heating. It is stored in cylinders or cans. MBr is highly penetrative, can kill insect eggs, highly toxic to a broad spectrum of insects and similar pests, and is lethal even in relatively short exposure periods (typically 24 hours for non-perishables). However, it reacts with food containing high levels of fat, certain types of rubber, etc, and is forbidden for some commodities. Aluminium Phosphide (ALP) when allowed to react with atmospheric water vapour, produces phosphine gas. It is available in tablet form. ALP exposure periods are higher (typically 72 hours) and is not lethal to all insect eggs. However, ALP can be safely used for oil seeds and fatty foods like cashew nuts. Both fumigants are highly toxic to humans and pets, and oprations have to be performed in a precise manner in the fashion prescribed by the national standards, as the fumigation treatments involve complex procedures.
