Synthesis and structure-activity relationships of benzophenone hydrazone derivatives with insecticidal activity

A broad range of benzophenone hydrazone derivatives was prepared and tested against selected chewing insect pests, allowing the analysis of structure- activity relationships. Good activity was found only when the aromatic ring s were substituted at the 4-positions with an halogen atom and a triflate o r perhaloalkoxy group. In contrast, a number of substituents on the hydrazo ne part led to active compounds, the best results being achieved with acyl- type substituents. The excellent laboratory and greenhouse activity of the best representatives was confirmed in semi-field trials against Spodoptera littoralis. (C) 2001 Society of Chemical Industry.