monolinuron

Description

Monolinuron is a phenylurea herbicide, a derivative of diuron, that is used to control weeds in a variety of crops, including sugar beet, potatoes, and soybeans. It is a selective herbicide, meaning that it kills weeds but not the crop plants. Monolinuron works by inhibiting photosynthesis in weeds, specifically by blocking the electron transport chain in photosystem II. The compound is absorbed through the roots and leaves of weeds. It is generally applied as a pre-emergent herbicide, before weeds have a chance to germinate. Monolinuron is a persistent herbicide, meaning that it can remain active in the soil for an extended period of time. Its persistence can be beneficial for long-term weed control, but it also means that it can be a source of groundwater contamination. The use of monolinuron has been restricted in some countries due to its environmental effects. It is often studied because it is an effective herbicide that can be used to control a variety of weeds, but its environmental persistence and potential for groundwater contamination are also a concern. Monolinuron is synthesized by the reaction of 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea with 2-chloro-4-nitroaniline. The compound has been shown to be effective in controlling a variety of weeds, including annual grasses, broadleaf weeds, and sedges. It is also being studied for its potential to control aquatic weeds. Monolinuron is a relatively expensive herbicide, but it is effective and can provide long-term weed control.'

monolinuron: structure in first source [Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), National Library of Medicine, extracted Dec-2023]