Effect of Quaternary Ammonium Salts with Fluorine Atoms on Selected Weed Species

This study investigated the effects of four structurally different quaternary ammonium salts (QASs), i.e., tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate [TBA][BF₄], tetrahexylammonium tetrafluoroborate [THA][BF₄], tetrabutylammonium hexafluorophosphate [TBA][PF₆], and tetrahexylammonium hexafluorophosphate [THA][PF₆], on the growth and development of three weed species: gallant soldier (Galinsoga parviflora Cav.), white goosefoot (Chenopodium album L.) and common sorrel (Rumex acetosa L.). The examined compounds were applied in the form of foliar spraying and soil application. Strong herbicidal properties of the examined compounds were demonstrated in case of their soil application. Growth inhibition of plant shoots and roots was greater with soil application than with foliar treatment. The strongest herbicidal activity of compounds was demonstrated with [TBA][BF₄] have demonstrated [TBA][BF₄] and [TBA][PF₆] applied to the soil, while [THA][BF₄] demonstrated the weakest herbicidal action. The increased concentration of applied QASs caused a decrease in the assimilation pigments, change in dry weight content and inhibition of length of shoots and roots.