University of Nebraska-Lincoln Pesticide Application Technology Laboratory Trial Request Form
Thank you for your interest in conducting research with the Precision Pesticide Application Technology Laboratory (PAT Lab). Since becoming operational in 2012, the PAT Lab has specialized in analyzing pesticide applications using custom-built low-speed and high-speed wind tunnels. These wind tunnels are designed to measure droplet spectrum characteristics across various application technologies. Our testing methods align with standards from organizations such as the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International), and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
In addition to wind tunnel testing, the PAT Lab offers a broad range of services to meet different research needs, including spray deposition analysis, drift reduction validation (wind tunnel and field), adjuvant performance studies (greenhouse and field), and coverage optimization. We also provide specialized capabilities such as fluorescent tracer mapping, spray retention assessment, and custom equipment testing. These additional services are designed to enhance the precision and efficacy of pesticide application technologies.
The Trial Request Form standardizes the treatment list and ensures clear communication between the requestor (company, researcher, or individual) and the UNL PAT Lab. While PAT Lab researchers can provide guidance upon request, the requestor holds full responsibility for the accuracy and completeness of the treatment list. Any liabilities, including financial obligations due to incomplete or inaccurate forms, rest with the requestor.
Important Notes for Requestors:
- Chemical Inventory: The UNL PAT Lab maintains a limited agricultural pesticides and adjuvants inventory. Requestors are responsible for supplying all required chemicals for their tests. Excess chemicals will be stored in a climate-controlled environment for three (3) months following test completion. After this period, chemicals will be discarded per label instructions. If shipping of chemicals return is required, the requestor is responsible for covering shipping costs.
- Application Rates: expressed in grams of product per liter (g/L) or milliliters of product per liter (mL/L) are preferred; however, additional formats will be accepted, provided they adhere to the following standardized formats: grams of product per liter (g/L), milliliters of product per liter (mL/L), percentage by volume (percent volume/volume, %v/v), fluid ounces per acre (fl oz/acre), and dry ounces per acre (dry oz/acre). For liquid formulations, requestors must specify additional details such as pounds of active ingredient per gallon (lb/gal) or grams per liter (g/L) in the tested formulation. For dry formulations, requestors must specify formulation details such as pounds of product per pound of formulation (lb/lb). Rates submitted in formats other than the specified standard (e.g., lbs a.i. or a.e./acre, or g a.i. or a.e./hectare, and others) will not be accepted, as they may lead to errors in preparation or application. The requestor is responsible for accurately expressing all rates in the required format. While the PAT Lab adheres closely to the instructions provided, we cannot be held accountable for any discrepancies or issues arising from incorrectly expressed rates.
- Nozzle Inventory: While the UNL PAT Lab has access to various nozzles, requestors must supply any nozzles not listed in our inventory. Please refer to our Nozzle Inventory List for availability.
- Processing Order: Trial Request Forms are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. The completion timeline depends on queue position, time of year, and trial complexity. The PAT Lab does not provide preferential treatment to any requestor.
- Invoicing: After trial is completed, a data report and an invoice will be provided. Payment is due within 30 days of the invoice date.
- Response Time: After submitting your Trial Request Form, allow three (3) business days for a response from a PAT Lab representative to discuss pricing and trial details. If you do not receive a response within this time frame, please contact Milos Zaric via email.
Instructions:
- Download the Trial Request Form template.
- Complete all fields. Incomplete forms will not be processed.
- Upload the completed form in the submission portal below.
- Once all steps are complete, click Submit.
Thank you for choosing the UNL PAT Lab for your research needs!
Should you have any questions, please contact:
Milos Zaric
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
West Central Research, Education and Extension Center
402 West State Farm Road
North Platte, NE 69101
Office: 308-696-6715
Email: mzaric2@unl.edu
Trial Request Form
Fillable treatment testing form (xlsx, 22 KB)
Nozzle Inventory
Available nozzles (pdf)