Lenacil

Lenacil is a uracil-derived chemical herbicide used to control broadleaf weeds.

Production and synthesis

Lenacil was first patented and manufactured by DuPont in the 1960s.
The compound can be produced via a condensation reaction between ethyl-2-oxocyclopentanecarboxylate and cyclohexylurea under an environment of phosphoric acid:

Uses

Lenacil is used in the agricultural industry as a selective herbicide to protect sugar and fodder beets.
Lenacil's HRAC classification is Group C1, Group C or Group 5, as it inhibits photosynthesis at photosystem II.

Toxicity

Lenacil is noted as a potential endocrine disrupting compound. It is not acutely toxic or genotoxic to mammals, though there is limited evidence the compound is carcinogenic. Lenacil is noted as particularly damaging to algae and aquatic plants, which is a concern if the compound leaches into groundwater when used as a pesticide.