AGROCHEMICALS
Easyconnect CTS and when used in the traditional way . The team went through several design iteration loops for the container . To prepare for the UN assessment for Transport of Dangerous Goods regulations , they performed drop tests and decided to implement a neck-protecting feature to absorb any impact from drops and prevent interface energy from concentrating itself around the container ’ s neck and inside the cap . The change from S-pac ’ s blown handle to an external one required the team to create new validation test methods ( i . e . tensile and shock tests ) based on how the handle would be managed by farmers , so as to ensure it will not break under standard conditions of use . Like the container , the handle design evolved over time to meet the right mechanical resistance and deliver the best user experience as farmers tested each prototype . When all of these development steps are finished , the container is tested in order to pass the standard UN tests ( drop , hydraulic pressure , airtightness , and stacking tests ), seeping tests and transport tests .
This is to ensure the new container equipped with the easyconnect cap can be transported safely . Tests are also done to ensure the container ’ s long-term chemical resistance remains unchanged even when the container wall thickness is the same as S-pac . This is to ensure that the overall pack is designed and developed to trusted standards .
Grower feedback
We received positive feedback from farmers on the final design . They were happy with the evolution of the packaging design and the fact that the new container delivers benefits both with and without the use of CTS technology . Many mentioned that they like the central neck and shoulder design of EvoPac , which allows easy pouring when used traditionally . Those testing the container with the Easyconnect CTS highlighted the benefits of both the steady grabbing feature at the bottom of the container and the robust rotating handle , which together support inverting and placing the container onto a coupler . In addition , the transparent material and embossed graduations were welcomed as they increase the farmers ’ level of confidence in using the right amount of product in spray mixtures and to check whether the container is properly rinsed .
What comes next
EvoPac covers the Syngenta core ( 1L , 5L and 10L ) and non-core ( 3L and 7.5L ) crop protection liquid and Seedcare packaging range . It will be introduced in the Europe , Africa , and Middle East region in a phased approach over the next few coming years . Further projects will focus on making technologies available that support the practical and sustainable use of containers . For example , our team is currently reviewing the potential use of recycled plastic for the containers . This is an exciting next step , which requires a supply of recycled materials as well as the quality of the recycled materials to pass critical testing . •
* - EvoPac is a trademark of a Syngenta Group company
** - easyconnect is a multi-company project , which is normally spelled with a lower case e
Tirso Oteyza
SUSTAINABLE & RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS MANAGER EAME
J j tirso . oteyza @ syngenta . com www . syngenta . com
5L EvoPac container
38 SPECIALITY CHEMICALS MAGAZINE ESTABLISHED 1981