FMC Durmet (Chlorpyrifos) Insecticide: The Triple-Action Termite & Borer Expert
Get complete control over termites, stem borers, and soil pests with FMC Durmet's trusted broad-spectrum formula.
FMC Durmet (Chlorpyrifos) is a legendary solution in Indian agriculture and structural pest control. Unlike standard insecticides, Durmet offers a unique "Triple Action" defense—Contact, Stomach, and Vapor (Fumigant)—making it impossible for pests to hide. Whether you are battling termites in building foundations, Stem Borers in paddy, or Bollworms in cotton, Durmet penetrates deep to deliver results.
Best For: Termite control (pre & post-construction), Paddy Stem Borer, Cotton Bollworms, and Soil Pests.
Why Choose This Product? Key Benefits
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Triple-Action Power: Attacks pests in three ways: by touch (contact), by eating (stomach), and by breathing (vapor/fumigant).
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Ultimate Termite Barrier: Binds strongly to soil particles, creating a long-lasting chemical wall that kills termites attempting to cross it.
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Reach Hidden Pests: The unique "Fumigant Action" releases vapors that travel into plant stems and soil tunnels to kill hidden borers and grubs.
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Resistance Breaker: Excellent tank-mix partner for Cotton; it helps kill pests that have developed resistance to other chemicals like pyrethroids.
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Versatile Protection: Approved for use on 18 specific crop-pest complexes, including Paddy, Cotton, Sugarcane, and Building Construction.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | FMC Durmet (Also available as Durmet Force) |
| Technical Name | Chlorpyrifos 20% EC (Force is 50% EC) |
| IRAC MoA Code | Group 1B |
| Chemical Group | Organophosphate (OP) |
| Formulation | Emulsifiable Concentrate (EC) |
| Toxicity Label | Moderately Hazardous (Review Label Color) |
How It Works: Mode of Action
Durmet works by disrupting the insect's nervous system. It inhibits an enzyme called Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), causing the pest's nerves to fire uncontrollably, leading to paralysis and elimination.
- Contact Action: The oil-based solution dissolves the insect's outer skin layers, delivering a lethal dose immediately upon spraying.
- Stomach Action: When chewing pests (like Bollworms) eat treated leaves, the poison enters their gut and shuts down their system.
- Fumigant (Vapor) Action: In hot climates, Durmet releases vapors that travel into soil pores or rice stems, killing hidden pests that sprays cannot reach directly.
*Note: This vapor action is critical for reaching termites deep in mounds and borers inside plant stems.
Target Crops & Pests
| Crop / Usage | Target Pest(s) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | Bollworms, Aphids, Whitefly, Cutworms |
| Paddy (Rice) | Yellow Stem Borer, Leaf Folder, Hispa |
| Sugarcane | Termites (Sett protection), Early Shoot Borer |
| Building / Construction | Subterranean Termites (Pre & Post Construction) |
Dosage & Application Guide
The Golden Rule: Always follow the "Dose per Acre" and check if you are using Durmet 20% EC or Durmet Force 50% EC.
Dosage per Acre, Litre, & Pre-Harvest Interval (PHI)
| Crop | Dose (ml / Acre) | Water (L / Acre) | Method | PHI (Days) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton (High Infestation) | 150 - 240 ml (Note: If using 50% EC) | 200 L | Foliar Spray | Wait 15-20 Days |
| Sugarcane (Termites) | Varies (High Dose) | Sufficient to drench | Soil Drench over Setts | See Label |
| Paddy (Stem Borer) | Check Label (EC %) | 150 - 200 L | Foliar Spray / Root Dip | 30 Days |
*Note: Dosage varies significantly between Durmet 20% EC and Durmet Force 50% EC. Always consult the product label leaflet for the exact ratio for your specific crop.
How to Apply: Best Practices
- Timing: For Stem Borers, apply when you see "dead hearts" or moths. For Cotton, apply at the early stage of infestation.
- Mixing: Pour the required dose into water and stir well. It will turn into a milky-white emulsion. Use immediately; do not let it sit for hours.
- Coverage: Ensure thorough coverage of the foliage for contact action. For soil pests (termites), the soil must be well-drenched to create a barrier.
- Safety: Always wear PPE (gloves, mask, goggles). This product has a strong smell (sulfur/rotten egg) which serves as a safety warning. Wash hands thoroughly after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Durmet work for building construction termites?
Yes. Durmet is a standard choice for Pre-Construction and Post-Construction anti-termite treatment (IS 6313 compliant). It creates a chemical barrier in the foundation soil.
2. Why does Durmet have a strong smell?
The smell (resembling sulfur) is natural to the chemical. It acts as a safety warning, alerting you if you are being exposed to vapors so you can put on your mask or move away.
3. Can I mix Durmet with other insecticides?
Yes. In Cotton, farmers often mix Durmet (Chlorpyrifos) with Cypermethrin to control both Bollworms and sucking pests simultaneously.
4. How does it kill Stem Borers hiding inside the rice plant?
Durmet has "Fumigant Action." Even if the spray doesn't touch the worm directly, the chemical releases a vapor that penetrates the plant stem to reach and kill the hidden larva.
5. Is there a stronger version of Durmet available?
Yes. While the standard is Durmet 20% EC, FMC also offers "Durmet Force," which is a highly concentrated 50% EC formulation for tough pest situations.
Safety & Disclaimer
Always read and follow the instructions on the official product label. The information provided here is for guidance only. Use personal protective equipment (PPE) during application. Chlorpyrifos is a regulated substance; ensure usage complies with local laws and approved crop lists.
