Influence of time, pH, temperature, organic matter and exchangeable cations on the adsorption of oxamyl on illites and kaolinites

Summary The adsorption of oxamyl under various conditions of time, pH, temperature, organic matter and exchangeable cations on illites and kaolinites was examined. The first order reaction indicated diffusion-controlled adsorption, maximum adsorption occurring at pH 6–5 which is near the pK value of oxamyl. Exchangeable cation in the order Na > H > Ca, organic matterand increasing temperature decreased adsorption. Adsorption isotherms and the molecular structure of oxamyl point to a reaction mechanism for oxamyl association with acid- and base-saturatedclays which involve either protonation or co-ordination of exchangeable clay cations to the carbonyl of the amide structure.