The aim of this project is to experimentally determine and mathematically model the movement of phosphine fumigant in large grain storages and its associated efficacy. This information will then be used to actively improve fumigant application to achieve effective insect and selection for resistance avoided.

What is the biosecurity problem? 

The continued usefulness of phosphine to control insect infestations while avoiding selection for resistance is threatened by the inability to ensure effective distribution of fumigant.

The main outputs of this project are to: 

• monitor and map phosphine gas distribution within large grain storages and relate this to causative factors
   
• develop mathematical simulation models describing fumigant distribution within large grain storages including "peripheral layer" problem areas
   
• develop mathematical simulation models of insect mortality and resistance selection under typical industrial phosphine doses, and
   
• use this information to recommend and trial solutions to gas distribution problems in large grain storages.
   

Who will be the end-users of this research?

Results from this project will benefit the Australian grain industry, in particular the bulk handling companies, grain fumigation researchers and grain fumigation designers of grain storage.