Insecticidal and behavioral effects of granite dust byproducts

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Heritage Memorials Ltd., located in Windsor, Nova Scotia, is a manufacturer of high quality memorial and monument products, primarily comprised from granite. Industrial rock-cutting for memorial manufacturing generates a significant amount of rock dust powders (byproduct) as a result of the stone-cutting process. Preliminary research by the company has shown promise for this 'ai' (active ingredient) as a beneficial soil amendment and a potential insect control method. Preliminary research (funded by an NSERC Engage grant) has revealed several effects of granite dust (ai) application. Foliar application of ai directly reduces larval damage and results in oviposition avoidance by females in selected insect species. Furthermore, application of ai to fruit reduces survivorship of frugivorous pests, and inhibits fungal growth. The mode of action may be multifaceted: First, larvae may actively avoid material. Second, given its structure, it may function in a similar manner to diatomaceous earth (resulting in water loss). Finally, it may also cause damage within the gut tissue inhibiting feeding.The objectives of this 2 year project will be to: 1) elucidate the mode of action; 2) improve delivery technology through improved sprayability and waterfastness; 3) expand the range of crops and pest targets in greenhouse trials; 4) validate targets for retail markets, including household insect pests (e.g. ants) and horticultural pests; 5) test the safety of ai application on non-target beneficial species (e.g. pollinators); 6) integrate studies of plant vigour to determine if pest resistance is indirectly linked to improved plant vigour in soil amendment application of ai.This endeavor will provide critical data for product development and registration for Heritage Memorials Ltd., and if these products are commercialized, will result in market delivery of innovative inert rock dust powders, which may provide environmentally safe alternatives to standard chemical insect repellents.