Abstract: Large shipping containers used to hold bulk-packaged commodies, such as hay, can be efficiently fumigated of pests and vermin by means of an apparatus which includes a long, flexible chain or string of gas-permeable, solid fumigant holders, and a long, rigid pole or thrusting member. The holders are joined at predetermined intervals within the string by means of pre-cut lengths of rope or cord and the pole is attached to a distal-most one of the holders and used to thrust the string of holders into the container through its open end and into the headspace above the commodity to be fumigated. The pole is then detached from the string and removed from the container to leave the string in place. The container, is closed, and fumigation is accomplished by permitting the solid fumigant to react with ambient moisture within the container for the static time necessary to produce its toxic gas. After fumigation is complete, the string of holders may be emptied of residue and washed for reuse.

Abstract: An apparatus for placement of selected quantities of gas-producing solid fumigant at selected locations within the depth of a bulk-stored commodity within a storage compartment, such as grain loaded into the hold of a ship. The invention comprises a fabric sleeve projecting downwardly into the grain with a closed lower end at a selected depth, and an open filler pipe received into the sleeve through which a selected quantity of fumigant is poured. The filler pipe is withdrawn to leave the fumigant at a selected depth within the sleeve, whereupon the grain comprises against and closes upper unfilled sleeve portions thereby isolating the fumigant at a selected depth within the grain where it produces penetrating toxic gases to extreminate pests. In one form, the sleeve and filler pipe are inserted as an assembly to a relatively shallow depth within the grain subsequent to loading of the hold.

Abstract: A method is provided for placement of selected quantities of gas-producing solid fumigant at selected locations within the depth of a bulk-stored commodity within a storage compartment, such as grain loaded into the hold of a ship. The invention comprises a fabric sleeve projecting downwardly into the grain with a closed lower end at a selected depth, and an open filler pipe received into the sleeve through which a selected quantity of fumigant is poured. The filler pipe is withdrawn to leave the fumigant at a selected depth within the sleeve, whereupon the grain compresses against and closes upper unfilled sleeve portions thereby isolating the fumigant at a selected depth within the grain where it produces penetrating toxic gases to exterminate pests. In one form, the sleeve and filler pipe are inserted as an assembly to a relatively shallow depth within the grain subsequent to loading of the hold.