Abstract: A method for controlling insects and arachnids using a composition which is non-toxic to humans. The composition may be a dust, an aerosol or a solvent solution of at least one neurally effective substance. The neurally effective substance has the following general chemical structure, ##STR1## where R.sub.1 is any of the following: CH.sub.2, C.sub.2 H.sub.4, C.sub.3 H.sub.6, C.sub.3 H.sub.4, C.sub.4 H.sub.8 or C.sub.4 H.sub.4 ;where R.sub.2 is any of the following:H, H.sub.2, CH.sub.3, C.sub.2 H.sub.5, C.sub.3 H.sub.7, C.sub.3 H.sub.5, C.sub.4 H.sub.9 or C.sub.4 H.sub.5 ;where R.sub.3 is any of the following:H, H.sub.2 or OCH.sub.3 ;where the six member ring ABCDEF has at least one unsaturated bond therein. The neurally active substances may also be an ester of the hydroxyl group on R.sub.1. Specific active compounds encompass terpineol, phenylethyl alcohol, benzylacetate, benzyl alcohol, eugenol, cinnamic alcohol and mixtures thereof.
Abstract: A hazard-free method for controlling insects using a non-toxic composition. The invention includes a process for making the composition in the form of a fragrance and crystalline particles which puncture directly through the exoskeleton of an insect. In operation, the particles work themselves between the insect's protective body plates and then puncture the exoskeleton permitting entry of the fragrance into the body of the insect. Once inside, the particles absorb up to four times their weight of the vital body fluids of the insect and the fragrance has a neural effect on the insect.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 9, 1995
Date of Patent:
December 2, 1997
Assignee:
Ecosmart, Inc.
Inventors:
Arthur Michael Knight, Steven M. Bessette
Abstract: A hazard-free method for controlling insects using a non-toxic composition that kills by dehydration. The invention includes a process for making the composition in the form of crystalline particles which penetrate directly through the exoskeleton of an insect. In operation, the particles work themselves between the insect's protective body plates and then pierce the exoskeleton. Once inside, the particles absorb up to four times their weight of the vital body fluids of the insect. The penetration of the body plates and exoskeleton and/or dehydration ultimately results in death of the insect.