Why are phosphine pellets often used in non-soil fumigation?

Phosphine pellets are primarily utilized in non-soil fumigation due to their ability to release phosphine gas when they come into contact with moisture. This characteristic is especially valuable in fumigation practices as phosphine gas is a potent fumigant effective against a wide range of pests, including insects and rodents.

The efficiency of phosphine as a gaseous fumigant allows it to penetrate various materials and structures, ensuring that even pests hidden in tough-to-reach areas are eliminated. The controlled release mechanism of phosphine from the pellets makes it easier to manage and apply in various environments, thus enhancing its effectiveness in pest management strategies.

While cost and availability can be factors in choosing a fumigant, they don’t directly pertain to the specific function of phosphine pellets in releasing gas. Moreover, other fumigation options do exist, and while bait strategies are employed in pest control, they do not apply to the function of phosphine in this context.