What characteristic defines emulsifiable concentrates in pesticide formulations?

Emulsifiable concentrates are defined by their use of petroleum-based solvents, which serve as carriers for the active ingredient. These solvents allow the pesticide formulation to mix well with water to form an emulsion, facilitating effective application. The presence of petroleum-based solvents also ensures that the formulation has good stability and can effectively dissolve certain active ingredients, enhancing their efficacy when applied.

While formulations might vary in their percentage of active ingredients, emulsifiable concentrates typically contain a higher concentration than 0-10%. High agitation is necessary for some formulations to mix effectively, but it is not a defining characteristic of emulsifiable concentrates. Additionally, these concentrates are not primarily intended for aerosol products, which is instead a characteristic of different types of formulations. Thus, the defining feature of emulsifiable concentrates lies in their use of petroleum-based solvents, which enhance their ability to create stable emulsions for effective pesticide delivery.