Envu R&D – Innovations in Pest Control

Research and development (R&D) in pest control plays a crucial role in addressing the ever-evolving challenges posed by pests. As pests adapt and develop resistance to existing control methods, continuous innovation is essential to stay ahead. 

With its dedicated R&D teams Envu is able to lead exploration of novel active ingredients, formulations, and delivery mechanisms that enhance the effectiveness and safety of pest control products. Furthermore, it paves the way for the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions, reducing the reliance on chemicals.

In this technical article, we speak to Envu’s Product Development Manager, Dr. Volker Gutsmann to find out more about product development and what we can expect to see in the future from Envu. 

What is your name and role at Envu?

My name is Dr. Volker Gutsmann, and I am Product Development Manager for the Professional Pest Management business at Envu.

 

Where are you based?

I am based in Envu’s European innovation hub in Monheim, located between Cologne and Düsseldorf, Germany.

What future Envu developments excite you  

In Envu, we are 100% dedicated to the markets we serve and in this new setup, we can be more focused and efficient to bring innovative solutions to the market. This change of gears to be faster is what excites me most. 

 

What is the R&D process for bringing a new product to the market?

The process of launching a new product can be separated into 3 distinct phases: First, we bring together innovative technical solutions and customer needs, this will define the new product profile. Secondly, the R&D phase, initially in the laboratory but then also in the field, will make sure the efficacy of the new product is as good as expected. Lastly, a regulatory dossier needs to be prepared and submitted to the relevant authorities; this dossier substantiates product safety and performance claims. 

How long does it take to bring a new product, such as the Partix Technology to market?

An average of 4-6 years must be expected for a novel solution within our chemical product portfolio. Approximately, half of the time is spent during R&D and the rest is time at the regulatory authorities. 

Regarding the K-Othrine Partix Technology - how does the product work? Also, what qualifications do pest controllers need to use this product?

The good performance of Partix is based on a novel formulation concept. In Partix, active ingredient crystals are associated with carrier material to create larger than usual particles that stay on the treated surface for longer and ensure a good transfer of active substance to the target insect. 

Pest controllers don’t need special knowledge or equipment. Dilution requires slightly more care but otherwise, the product can be used as any other suspension concentrate. 

 

What are your long term R&D plans for introducing further new products?

We at Envu feel that in the future our customers will be asked more often to use non-chemical products, therefore opportunities for alternative control systems are observed and evaluated very closely by us. Complementing this, detection or early warning systems may be more important in the future to combat against target insects before problems get out of hand.

 

Lastly, do you have any new and interesting products in the pipeline for the UK Pest Industry in the near future? 

Building on the last paragraph, we are finalising our work on an early warning system for insect infestations, allowing the pest control operator to detect the presence of pests before they begin to be a serious problem. Our Envu UK colleagues are excited to introduce this solution to their customers by the end of the year.