Chemical Name: 2-[4-(methylsulfonyl)-2-nitrobenzoyl]-1,3-cyclohexanedione

Formula: C₁₄H₁₃NO₇S

Molecular Weight: 339.31

CAS No.: 104206-82-8

Appearance: Light yellow crystal powder or light brown liquid

Melting Point: 165°C.

Boiling point: 4.27×10^-8mmHg(20°C).

Density: 1.46g/ ml (20°C)

Vapour Pressure: 5.69×10^-3 mPa(20°C).

Solubility: In water 2.2 (pH 4.8), 15 (pH 6.9), 22 (pH 9) (all in g/l, 20 °C).

Stability: Stable to hydrolysis (pH 4-9). pKa 3.12

Specification: 95%TC

Uses: Mesotrione will be applied pre-and post-emergence through ground or aerial application equipment. Mesotrione has herbicidal activity against broadleaf weeds. It's efficacy is the result of the inhibition of the enzyme 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) enzyme in target plants. Following treatment, in sensitive plants carotenoid biosynthesis is disrupted in the chlorophyll pathway, resulting in a bleaching effect.