710790Proof of concept for a new insecticidal soapClosedGRD Proof of ConceptInnovate UKInsecticidal soaps, based on natural fatty acids, have been known for many years and are approved for use in controlling a wide range of insects. However, their application is severely limited by the fact that, if they are applied at a concentration above 2 %, they can cause extensive damage to the plant itself. In some markets, such as the US, this has meant that their use has been severely restricted, and often there is no alternative available, particularly for 'organic' crops. We have developed a novel modified insecticidal soap and shown that it is equally effective in controlling a range of insects, but that it causes no phytotoxicity at 4 - 6 % application levels. We have carried out a detailed market survey of potential applications, have been provided with support in patenting the invention, and identified potential partner companies keen to take the product to market. This award would allow us to take the initial small scale formulation work and field trials we have already done to provide a completed proof of concept that the product can be produced at a commercially acceptable cost, that it is a very effective insecticide (against a range of species such as mites, thrip, aphids and whitefly), that it shows low phytotoxicity (towards a number of sensitive plants such as vines, peach, nectarine, cucumber, ornamentals, peppers, aubergine) and that there is a clear route to market, with partner companies in place to provide security of supply, and distribution into markets in the UK, Europe, US and the developing world.