With over 65 years of experience in the production of inorganic compounds, Quimetal has consolidated its position as a market leader, providing specialized solutions for the changing needs of various industries. Through a combination of cutting-edge technology and a constant commitment to quality, the company has experienced significant growth, expanding its reach to new markets and collaborating with major multinational companies.
Julian Astudillo, Head of Research, Development and Quality at Quimetal, highlights the wide range of copper-based products offered by the company, including copper hydroxide, cuprous oxide, copper oxychloride, cuprocalcium sulphate, among others. These various copper salts exhibit different behaviors when applied, allowing producers to select the most appropriate option according to their specific needs, “The advantage they have is that, when applied, they have different behaviors. Although all salts act in the same way, the release of copper ions from these salts has different speeds, which has an impact on the control of the diseases they seek to attack,” explains.
Copper application in cherry orchards plays a key role in disease prevention, with bacterial canker being a major concern. Quimetal strives to develop efficient products that require the lowest possible copper dosage, constantly improving the chemical processes and formulation of its products to ensure optimal coverage in the field, increased resistance to rain, and reduced drift during application. It adds that, “The main effect is that you can choose your type of copper salt based on the control you want to have in the field. If you want a faster option, you can choose an option that has a faster release or something that is more persistent over time, we also have that option.”
In addition, Quimetal has integrated innovative technologies that consider the optimization of the particle size of copper salts as a powerful source of pathogen control, maintaining a focus on environmental sustainability by offering certified products for use in organic agriculture. “Our focus is also on having products that are environmentally friendly, which is why our products are certified for use in organic agriculture, which gives us security in the production process since we have the least possible impact on the health and safety of our workers and on the application by farmers,” he concludes.
Quimetal's copper-based products represent an essential tool for cherry producers, providing effective and environmentally friendly solutions to maintain the phytosanitary status of crops.
