From First-of-Its-Kind to First Patent: How Envu Is Redefining Urban Pest Management with Barricor^® Essential Mosquito Control

When Envu launched as a standalone environmental science company in October 2022, following its divestment from Bayer where it previously operated as the Environmental Science division, the purpose was clear: to innovate boldly, advancing healthy environments for everyone, everywhere. Less than three years later, that vision has reached an exciting milestone. Envu has secured its first new patent since launching—for a product that represents the very heart of its innovative approach: Barricor® Essential Mosquito Control.

“Safe for everything except mosquitoes …” That’s the promise behind this essential oil-based mosquito barrier spray, which blends smart science with environmental responsibility. Most essential oil mosquito control products use traditional surfactants to mix oil and water into what’s called a macroemulsion—think of it like a vinaigrette that’s been shaken up, where droplets of oil are suspended in water but can still separate over time. Barricor Essential Mosquito Control instead uses a superior format called a Pickering emulsion, where tiny solid particles act like miniature guards around each droplet, keeping the mixture stable, preventing separation and ensuring consistent application. This approach also reduces the amount of active ingredient needed, lowering its environmental footprint.

Proven Safety and Performance

The formulation’s low toxicological profile means that Barricor Essential Mosquito Control carries no signal word warnings on its label or safety data sheet and requires no personal protective equipment, unless otherwise required by state mandate. It also shows no negative impact on pollinators, making it a standout option for professionals seeking botanical, FIFRA 25(b)-compliant mosquito control methods.

“This patent isn’t just a scientific milestone—it’s a sign of where we’re headed as a company,” said Bernard Jacqmin, Global Head of Innovation. “Barricor Essential Mosquito Control reflects our commitment to balance the needs of society and nature, and we’re proud that this innovation is now part of our growing intellectual property portfolio.”

Barricor Essential Mosquito Control entered the U.S. market in April 2025 as a FIFRA 25(b)-classified product, offering vector control professionals a botanical alternative that meets rising demand for plant-based, pollinator-friendly solutions. As stated in a peer-reviewed, Envu-authored research paper presented at the 2025 International Conference on Urban Pests (ICUP) in July 2025, the product:

• Achieved 100% mortality against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
• Demonstrated no adverse effects on butterflies, at direct application or dietary exposure.
• Had no negative impact on honeybee survival even when sprayed directly
• Maintained superior spray stability compared to other leading FIFRA 25(b)- classified products
• Met all efficacy and safety goals with a low active ingredient load

Shaping the Future of Mosquito Management

“This is the future of sustainable mosquito control,” said Arunas Damijonaitis, Solutions Development Leader - Pest Management and Public Health, who helped develop the product and presented his research at ICUP. “Barricor Essential Mosquito Control introduces a new benchmark for essential oil-based insecticides—delivering proven mosquito control with a low toxicological profile and no impact on pollinators. The strong interest we received at ICUP reflects what we’re seeing across the industry: a growing demand for biological and plant-based tools that are not only viable, but essential for the future of urban pest management.”

The innovation behind Barricor Essential Mosquito Control was led by Envu Formulation Development Manager Kyle Denk, with collaboration across the Envu innovation, regulatory and marketing teams. The result is a product that not only expands the company’s mosquito management portfolio, but also serves as a model for what’s next: solutions that are nature-positive, science-backed and ready to scale.

“Barricor Essential Mosquito Control stands apart from every other essential oil-based formulation on the market,” said Denk. “From the start, our goal was to think differently, leveraging new chemistries and formulation principles to create a biorational solution that delivers superior performance.” “This is just the beginning,” said Envu CEO Gilles Galliou. “Barricor Essential Mosquito Control is the first of many Envu patents to come. Since becoming an independent company, our team has gained the focus and agility needed to accelerate innovation. We’ve never been more active in developing intellectual property tailored to environmental science, and we will continue to invest in tools that address real-world challenges while helping shape the future of this industry.”

Learn more about Barricor Essential Mosquito Control and the expanding Envu innovation portfolio: https://www.us.envu.com/professional-pest-management/ppm/products/barricor-25b