Physical Control Methods in Plant Protection

Jointly published with INRA, Paris.

Pesticide resistance is becoming more frequent and widespread with more than 500 insect species known to have become resistant to synthetic insecticides. On the other hand, consumers increasingly demand agricultural products without any pesticide residues. This book, for the first time, shows the alternative: solely physical methods for plant protection by means of thermal, electromagnetic, mechanical and vacuum processes. A glossary rounds up this extremely valuable book.

From the reviews of the first edition:

"The aim of this book is to give update information on physical control methods in plant protection. ... The book is nicely presented, clear, and well-structured. It is well illustrated and flows with continuity despite multi-authorship. ... An interesting glossary at the end of the book may help the reader’s understanding of the topic." (Michel Couderchet, Journal of Plant Physiology, Vol. 160 (5), 2003)

"This book attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of a range of alternative methods divided into ... thermal, electromagnetic, mechanical and pneumatic control. ... each chapter includes a wealth of references that would enable the reader to use it as an ideal starting point for further investigation of the subject. ... If you have either a passing interest in alternatives to biological and chemical control of agricultural pests or are seeking a more detailed starting point for further investigations, this book provides a useful overview." (A. Straszewski, Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 138, 2002)