The adsorption-desorption of the cationic pesticide chlordimeform from aqueous solutions on montmorillonite, kaolinite, illite, and vermiculite appears to be a cation-exchange process coupled with the coadsorption of neutral molecules and the extraction of Al from the structure of the mineral. Chlordimeform adsorption on montmorillonite, illite, and vermiculite by cation exchange is an irreversible process, whereas chlordimeform adsorbed on kaolinite is weakly bonded to the clay and easily removed by washing with water. X-ray powder diffraction and infrared spectroscopic data show that chlordimeform cations are adsorbed in the interlamellar spaces of montmorillonite at charge sites, lying in a flat position in contrast to kaolinite, illite, and vermiculite, where they adsorb on external surfaces or charge sites close to the crystal edges.

Chlordimeform (CDM), tested by topical application, was found to be toxic to both male and female tsetse with the maximum effect some 72 hr after treatment. Median lethal doses were approx. 0.4 μg/fly for unfed adult tsetse of both sexes, 100% mortality at 72 hr was achieved with 2 μg/fly. Mature fed females were less susceptible to chlordimeform, the median lethal dose for 72 hr being 12.5 μg/fly. High doses of chlordimeform depressed the weight of puparia from survivors, but had no effect upon fecundity. Sublethal doses caused a significant depression of feeding activity, but did not cause hyperactivity or disrupt fat body lipid reserves.