The glasshouse complex at AgroChemex provides a fully climate controlled state of the art research facility extending to around 1000m2. The complex consists of six glasshouses; two are fully benched (400m2), two are soil-based (300m2) and the other two are membrane-lined (300m2). The environment in each of the glasshouses is constantly monitored and managed using an automated computer system.
This facility is also covered by the Official Recognition of Efficacy Testing Facilities (93/71/EEC) certification, which we gained from PSD in March 2000.

Controlled Environment
To complement the glasshouses we have two large controlled environment chambers where the climate can be extensively manipulated in order to mimic specific climatic zones. Day length and light intensity may be varied, together with temperature (-10/+40oC) and humidity. We have used the facility for various studies ranging from the assessment phytotoxicity of compounds applied to wheat under freezing conditions, to the performance of materials on citrus species.

Laboratory Facilities
Immediately adjacent to the glasshouses and controlled environment chambers are a suite of three laboratories and the Mardrive cabinet sprayer. The laboratories are dedicated to specific tasks such as the preparation of experimental materials and chemical samples, or the assessment of sampled materials.

Glasshouse Studies
At AgroChemex we conduct a comprehensive range of efficacy, selectivity and residue studies, including insect work, in the glasshouse complex. We can work with a wide range of crops and ornamentals.

The following studies demonstrate the type of programmes undertaken:

Non Target Plant Studies (OECD 208 A & B) to GLP.
Determination of foliar and soil applied No Effect Levels.
Baseline sensitivity to active ingredients on collected populations.
Vegetative vigour tests on terrestrial non target plants.
Resistance screening of collected populations.
Efficacy, phytoxicity and rainfastness of formulations, Seed treatment germination tests (including effects of long-term storage).
Radio labelled plant metabolism studies.
Fertiliser and micro-nutrient efficacy.
Assessments of planting media.