How does temperature affect the flow rate of granular formulations?

When analyzing how temperature affects the flow rate of granular formulations, it is important to understand the physical properties of the granules and how temperature can influence them.

As temperature increases, it can lead to an increase in thermal energy, which may reduce the viscosity of certain materials, potentially enhancing flow. However, for granular formulations, especially those that are hygroscopic or contain moisture, higher temperatures can also lead to changes that may create clumping or aggregation. These factors can ultimately impede the flow rate as the granules may stick together more readily, leading to a decrease in their mobility.

Furthermore, as the temperature rises, moisture can evaporate or alter the flow characteristics in ways that cause the granules to compact or form cakes, thus decreasing the overall flow rate. Therefore, it is reasonable to conclude that increased temperatures can create conditions that negatively impact the flow of granular formulations, making the understanding of temperature's role quite critical in pest control applications.