Published online by Cambridge University Press: 12 June 2017
Air-assist nozzles that use pneumatic energy to help atomize the spray liquid were reviewed. These nozzles use larger orifices than conventional hydraulic nozzles for low-volume applications. By changing the air pressure, various droplet sizes can be produced without changing nozzle tips. Several systems use air to transport the atomized spray to specific target sites. Various air volumes and velocities have been evaluated in these systems. Preliminary research indicated that air can improve canopy penetration and can cover the entire plant more uniformly. Undersides of leaves can be treated easier with air-assist systems compared to conventional applications with hydraulic nozzles.