Technical buyer guide
EC, SC, WP and WG full forms and formulation differences
EC, SC, WP and WG identify different pesticide formulation types. This guide gives their full forms and explains what happens when each is diluted in water. Importers and distributors can use the comparison to ask for the correct specification, label and physical-quality evidence.
Quick answer: EC means emulsifiable concentrate; SC means suspension concentrate; WP means wettable powder; WG means water dispersible granule.
Ask for a formulation comparisonWhat a formulation code tells you
The code describes the formulation type supplied to the buyer: for example, a liquid concentrate, suspended particles, a powder or water-dispersible granules. The terminology below follows the official CIPAC formulation-code list. FAO registration guidance also treats formulation type and code as core product information.
EC vs SC vs WP vs WG: what is the difference?
EC forms an emulsion on dilution. SC contains suspended solid particles, while WP and WG disperse particles from a dry powder or granule. A suspension is different from the solution formed by SL or SP. Follow the exact label for preparation and agitation; a code does not determine the mixing rate.
| Code | Supplied form | After water dilution | Examples of evidence to request |
|---|---|---|---|
| EC | Liquid concentrate | Emulsion | Emulsion stability and re-emulsification |
| SC | Suspension of solid particles | Suspension | Suspensibility, particle size and wet-sieve results |
| WP | Powder | Suspension | Wettability, suspensibility and wet-sieve results |
| WG | Granules | Dispersion / suspension | Dispersibility, suspensibility and attrition resistance |
These are examples of formulation-specific checks, not universal acceptance limits. Agree the applicable methods and limits for the exact product. The FAO/WHO specification manual (2010 revision) explains these physical tests. WHO publishes the current 2025 manual separately; use the current product specification and validated methods for an order.
Pesticide formulation codes and full forms
- EC
- Emulsifiable concentrate
- A liquid concentrate that forms an emulsion when diluted.
- SC
- Suspension concentrate
- Solid active-ingredient particles suspended in a water-based liquid.
- SL
- Soluble concentrate
- A liquid concentrate whose active ingredient forms a solution in water.
- WP
- Wettable powder
- A powder that disperses as suspended particles in water.
- WG
- Water dispersible granule
- Granules that disintegrate and disperse in water.
- SP
- Water soluble powder
- A powder whose active ingredient dissolves to form a solution in water.
- ME
- Micro-emulsion
- A liquid formulation supplied as, or forming, a micro-emulsion.
- OD
- Oil dispersion
- Solid particles suspended in an organic fluid.
- CS
- Capsule suspension
- Active ingredient enclosed in suspended capsules.
- FS
- Flowable concentrate for seed treatment
- A suspension concentrate specifically intended for seed treatment.
- DS
- Powder for dry seed treatment
- Dry powder intended for direct treatment of seed.
- ZC
- Mixed formulation of CS and SC
- Capsule suspension and suspension concentrate in one formulation.
- DC
- Dispersible concentrate
- A liquid concentrate that forms a solid dispersion after dilution.
- SE
- Suspo-emulsion
- Suspended particles and emulsified droplets in one liquid formulation.
Common formulation questions
Is SC always better than EC?
The formulation code does not establish which product is better for a particular use. Compare the active ingredient, registered use, concentration basis, label directions and specification. Evaluate physical-quality results for that formulation and its intended supply conditions.
What is the full form of ZC, DC and SE?
ZC is a mixed formulation of CS and SC; DC means dispersible concentrate; SE means suspo-emulsion. ZC combines capsule and suspension components, whereas SE combines suspended particles with an emulsion. Confirm the formulation of the quoted product instead of treating these codes as substitutes.
Is WP or WG the same as a water-soluble product?
WP and WG disperse in water; they are not the same formulation types as SP or SL, which form a solution. Check the label's preparation and agitation directions for the exact product. The appearance of a diluted sample alone does not verify its active content or quality.
Can a formulation code tell me the application dose?
The code identifies formulation type, not dose. Use the registered local label for the product, crop, target and application method. Concentration and rate units must also be checked. A supplier's specification, SDS or COA supports product review but does not replace the approved directions.
Information to include in an enquiry
- Active ingredient and required concentration.
- Formulation code and preferred pack size.
- Destination country and intended professional market.
- Required specification, SDS, COA or registration-support documents.
- Any transport, language or private-label requirements.
Verify before selection
Compare the full product identity and destination-market requirements rather than selecting by a two-letter code alone. Our official-source directory explains where to begin that verification.