Fibrous pest control

Abstract

The present invention provides fibrous pest deterrents that combine the useful properties of a physical barrier in the form of a non-woven fibrous matrix with a chemical deterrent such as a pesticide, behavior-modifying compound or a pest repellent. The use of such fibrous pest deterrents protects plants, animals and structures in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings from damage inflicted by pests. Unlike traditional pesticides, the behavior-modifying compound, pesticide or chemical deterrent of the present invention is adsorbed or attached to a fibrous matrix, and so it is not so readily dispersed into the environment. Hence, use of the present fibrous pest deterrents can reduce the levels of pesticides that inadvertently contaminate non-target areas and pollute water supplies. The present fibrous pest deterrents therefore help moderate in the use of pesticides in commercial agricultural and non-agricultural operations, home gardens, and the urban environment, alleviating public concerns about pesticide run-off, contamination of the environment and risks to human health.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.