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Herbicidal Warfare Vietnam 1961-1971

2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, a herbicide not known to be toxic at normal use rates in agriculture. Spraying may increase nitrate content of sprayed plants to toxic levels. Called also 2,4-D.

2,4-D is a synthetic auxin, which is a class of plant growth regulators. It is absorbed through the leaves and is translocated to the meristems of the plant. Uncontrolled, unsustainable growth ensues causing stem curl-over, leaf withering, and eventual plant death. 2,4-D is typically applied as an amine salt, but more potent ester versions exist as well.

2,4-D is manufactured from chloroacetic acid and 2,4-dichlorophenol, which is itself produced by chlorination of phenol. The production process creates several contaminants including isomers, monochlorophenol, and other polychlorophenols and their acids.

The powerful defoliant and herbicide Agent Orange, used extensively throughout the Vietnam War, contained 2,4-D. The controversies associated with the use of Agent Orange were associated with a contaminant (dioxin) in the 2,4,5-T component. However, 2,4-D is still contaminated to some extent with dioxins, predominately those with 2 or 3 chlorine atoms.

Sources:

~ Wikipedia ~
~ Agent Orange Statistics ~

Pesticide Information Profiles: Facts, Toxicology, use, an overview of each pesticide's toxic effects and their expected actions in the environment.

2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid
Toxicology Network 2,4-D

2,4-D links
2,4-D: The Wrong Symbol for Pesticides
Overview of the toxic effects of 2,4-D
2005 Review on 2,4-D Herbicide
ChemicalWATCH Factsheet
Industry Task Force II on 2,4-D
2,4-D RED Facts
EPA 2,4-D
2,4-D Techinical Fact Sheet
2,4-D: The Wrong Symbol for Pesticides