Spray Applications Unit, Silsoe
	The TAG Spray Application Unit at Silsoe is an internationally important facility for the development and measurement of spray application systems, with particular expertise concerning agricultural pesticides. The unit has a team of specialists with established research experience in spray generation, transport and deposition. This expertise relates to the conducting of field experiments, laboratory work including the use of a specialised wind tunnel, and the development of mathematical models.
	Nozzle Performance
	The Unit has equipment to:
	Measure droplet size and velocity distributions in a spray with laser-based instruments Visualise spray formation processes Measure volume distribution patterns Sample the whole or part of a spray
	Spray Deposits
	Visualisation and on-surface measurement Deposits on plants can be visualised. These images can be used to determine coverage and quantity of spray both directly on the target and in wash off techniques, using:
	coloured tracer dyes fluorescent dyes active ingredients (if visible)
	Quantifying deposits For tracers:
	Spectrophotometry - for coloured dyes Fluorimetry - for fluorescent dyes Atomic absorption spectrometry - for metal chelates
	For pesticides:
	hplc analysis gc analysis
	Spray Drift
	Field measurements
	Measuring airborne droplet profiles using passive line collectors Ground deposits Sampling airborne vapour concentration with suction samplers Potential deposition on bystanders Using tracer dyes or real tank mixes
	Wind tunnel studies
	Controlled conditions - wind speed, humidity and crop/surface condition Standard tests for LERAP star ratings for nozzles Applications to tray grown crops
	Mathematical Modelling
	Obtaining experimental data, particularly in the field can be time-consuming and costly. Mathematical models can be valuable in mapping from laboratory to the field and in extrapolating field data. We can develop new models as appropriate, and have existing models for:
	Spray drift Sprayer logistics
	Contact Information
	TAG Spray Applications Unit, Silsoe (part of The Arable Group) Building 42, Wrest Park, Silsoe, Bedford, MK45 4HP Tel: 01525 862995 Fax: 01525 862583
	Professor Paul Miller
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	Clare Butler Ellis
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	TAG Head Office
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