ABSTRACT
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the use of phosphine (PH3) in the expurgation process of corn and bean stored in the region of Campina Grande, Paraíba state, Northeast of Brazil. One hundred questionnaires were applied among farmers and/or open market salesmen, which showed that the use of phosphine is much common. Even without having access to technical information, regarding the period and intervals of application farmers have used the product in a satisfactory way. Nevertheless, the application rates used have been higher than those recommended.
Key words:
expurgation; phosphine; grain storage