BE1030952B1 - COMPOSITION FOR MASKING AN ODOR FROM CROP PROTECTION PRODUCTS - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to the use of a composition of masking substances to mask the odor from crop protection products. Preferably, this composition comprises one or more substances selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids. The invention also relates to a method for preparing this composition. The present invention also relates to a plant protection product containing these marking substances and the use of these plant protection products with marking substances in agriculture and horticulture, preferably in public spaces.

Description

4 BE2022/5811

COMPOSITION FOR MASKING AN ODOR FROM

CROP PROTECTION PRODUCTS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the use of a composition of masking substances to mask the odor from crop protection products. Preferably, this composition comprises one or more substances selected from the list comprising undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof, isoamyl acetate, hexanol, anethole, estragole, trans 2 hexenal, essential oils and terpenes. The invention also relates to a method for preparing this composition. The present invention also relates to a plant protection product containing these marking substances and the use of these plant protection products with marking substances in agriculture and horticulture, preferably in public spaces.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In agriculture and horticulture, products are often used that spread an unpleasant odor. This odor is mainly linked to the use of crop protection products.

Organophosphate-containing active ingredients such as malathion, dimethoate, and others are known to have an unpleasant odor and to emit a specific odor during the preparation of the spray solution and its application by the end user. Certain fatty acids such as pelargonic acid are also known to spread an unpleasant odor.

The odor of a pesticide — coming from its active ingredients or from one or more co-formulants — can be an indicator of the hazard associated with the product, alerting end users and neighbors to surrounding surfaces treated with the pesticide.

Therefore, masking agents, i.e. additives that allow to mask or eliminate unwanted odors, can be introduced into the concentrated product - usually during the production of the formulated product - or into the spray mixture before application to the surfaces to be treated.

Fragrance masks are widely used in various market sectors, such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Various products are used to eliminate or minimize unwanted odors from products used in these applications.

9 BE2022/5811

However, there is still a need for substances to minimize the odor of crop protection products. Especially in public spaces, such as surfaces used as sports fields and recreational parks of all kinds, where there is usually a lot of public and where it is usually pleasant to stay. In these places, the presence of unpleasant odors due to crop protection and herbicides is unacceptable.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention and embodiments thereof serve to provide a solution to the above-mentioned disadvantages of crop protection products. For this purpose, the present invention relates to a composition for masking an odor of crop protection products that is often experienced as very unpleasant.

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a composition of masking agents, wherein the composition comprises at least one substance selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, for masking an odor from crop protection products.

More specifically, the present invention provides the use described above wherein the organic acid, or an ester or a salt thereof, is selected from the list comprising undecylenic acid, isoamyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate and ethyl methyl pentanoate.

More specifically, the present invention provides the use as described above wherein the aliphatic and aromatic alcohol is selected from the list comprising hexanol, such as including 1-hexanol, 2-hexanol and 3-hexanol, 2,6-dimethyl-7-octene -2-oln 2,6-dimethyl-2-octenol and phenylethanol.

More specifically, the present invention provides the use as described above wherein the aliphatic and aromatic aldehyde is selected from the list including trans-2-hexenal and phenylacetaldehyde.

More specifically, the present invention provides the use as described above wherein the essential oil is selected from the list comprising anise oil, basil oil, bergamot oil, cananga oil, cedar oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, cypress oil, pine oil, eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, geranium oil , jasmine oil, chamomile oil, cardamom oil, clove oil, laurel oil, lavender oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, mint oil, nutmeg oil, orange blossom oil, patchouli oil, peppermint oil, grapefruit oil

3 BE2022/5811 rosemary oil, rose oil, rosewood oil, sage oil, sandalwood oil, clary sage oil, orange oil, thyme oil, verbena oil and Ylang Ylang oil.

More specifically, the present invention provides the use as described above wherein terpene or terpenoid is selected from the list comprising monoterpenes and terpenoids, such as the list comprising pinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, cis-pinane, trans-pinane, mycrene , limonene, alpha-ocimene, beta-ocimene, cis-ocimene, ocimene, delta-3-carene, sabinene, camphene, phellandrene, alpha-phellandrene, beta-phellandrene, c-terpinene, terpinolene, alpha-terpinolene, beta-terpinolene , gamma-terpinolene, trans-alpha-terpinolene, delta-terpinolene, anethole, estragole, chavicol, safrole, fenchol, 2-pinonol, menthol, geraniol, nerol, linalook, eucalyptol, borneol, isoborneol, camphor and carvone.

In another aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a composition of masking agents as described herein wherein the odor is derived from a plant protection product comprising at least a C8 to C10 fatty acid, preferably caprylic acid, pelargonic acid, capric acid, or a mixture of caprylic acid and /or pelargonic acid and/or capric acid, or a mixture of caprylic acid and capric acid, or an ester or a salt thereof.

More specifically, the present invention provides for the use as described above wherein the odor comes from a crop protection product comprising at least pelargonic acid.

More specifically, the present invention provides the use as described above wherein the composition comprises at least orange oil.

In another aspect, the present invention provides the use of a masking agent composition, wherein the masking agent composition comprises at least two, preferably at least three or more, substances selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids for masking an odor from crop protection products.

In another aspect, the present invention provides the use as described above wherein the amount of a single substance in the composition of masking agents is in the range of at least 0.01% by weight to at most 15% by weight, preferably from 0.05 to 12.5% by weight, from 0.1 to 10% by weight. weight percent, or from 1 to 8 weight percent, from 2 to 7 weight percent, from 3 to 6 weight percent, more preferably from 1.5 to 7.5 weight percent, from 1.95 to 6 weight percent, from 2 to 5 weight percent, most preferably from 0.1 to less than 0.5 percent by weight, from 0.5 to less than

4 BE2022/5811 2.5 percent by weight, from 2 to less than 8 percent by weight, from 0.5 to less than 5 percent by weight, from 5 to less than 15 percent by weight, where 100 percent by weight is the total amount of the composition of masking agents.

More specifically, the present invention provides a method for masking an odor originating from crop protection products which at least comprises the steps of 1) mixing at least one masking agent with the crop protection product, preferably pelargonic acid, 2) making an emulsifiable concentrate ( EC), an oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, an oil dispersion (OD), a micro emulsion (ME), an aqueous solution (SL) or a ready-to-use solution (AL) of at least one masking agent with the crop protection product, preferably with pelargonic acid.

More specifically, the present invention provides a method as described above, wherein the amount of masking agents added to the crop protection product, preferably to pelargonic acid, is in the range from 0.1 to 10 grams, preferably from 0.2 to 9 grams, or from 0.3 to 8 grams, 0.4 to 7 grams, more preferably from 0.5 to 6 grams, from 0.75 to 4 grams, from 0.95 to 3 grams, from 1 to 2.5 grams, most preferably from 0.1 to 1 gram, from 0.5 to 3 grams, or from 1 to 2 grams of masking agents per 100 grams of crop protection product, preferably pelargonic acid.

More specifically, the present invention provides a method as described above in which the concentration of the pelargonic acid with the masking agents in the emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD ), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) or the ready-to-use solution (AL) is in the range from 20 to 800 grams per liter, preferably from 25 to 750 grams, or from 50 to 700 grams per liter, more preferably from 100 to 650 grams or from 200 to 200 grams, or from 300 to 550 grams per liter, most preferably from 350 to 550 grams, or from 400 to 500 grams, 500 grams per liter.

More specifically, the present invention provides a method as described above in which the amount of emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME ), the aqueous solution (SL) or the ready-to-use solution (AL) is in the range of at least 2.5% by weight to a maximum of 25% by weight, preferably from 4 to 20% by weight or from 5 to 15% by weight, more preferably from 6 to 12 percent by weight or from 7 to 10 percent by weight, most preferably from 7.5 to 8.5 percent by weight, where 100 percent by weight is the total amount of water with emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) or the ready-to-use solution (AL).

More specifically, the present invention provides a method as described above wherein the odor comes from a crop protection product containing at least pelargonic acid.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a composition for masking the odor of plant protection products, wherein the composition comprises at least one masking agent selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes , essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a plant protection product comprising pelargonic acid and at least one masking agent selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids.

In another aspect, the present invention provides the use of a composition comprising pelargonic acid and at least one masking agent selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, in the agricultural and horticultural industry.

More specifically, the invention provides a use of a composition as described herein or a plant protection product as described herein, in the construction and maintenance of gardens and public spaces including sports fields, amusement parks, city parks, nature parks, recreational parks, holiday parks, public parks, industrial sites and railways.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1: shows the setup of a stainless steel test chamber with a 40L Nalophen headspace attached to it.

FIG. 2: shows how to use a special odor detection device (Pure Sniff).

Fig. 3: Shows the overall odor intensity results for PLA, PLA + orange oil, and

PLA + Composition 1. A significant difference (p=0.038) was demonstrated between pelargonic acid alone and pelargonic acid with orange oil.

Fig. 4: shows the results of the specific pelargonic acid intensity for PLA, PLA + orange oil, and PLA + Composition 1. A significant difference (p=0.001 and p=0.02) was found

6 BE2022/5811 demonstrated between pelargonic acid alone and pelargonic acid with orange oil or pelargonic acid with composition 1.

Fig. 5: shows the results of the pleasure experience for PLA, PLA + orange oil, and PLA + composition 1.

Fig 6: shows the odor profile for PLA, PLA + orange oil, and PLA + Composition 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Before the present composition and method of the invention are described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to specific compositions, their uses, and methods or combinations described, as such compositions, their uses, and methods and combinations combinations can of course vary. It should also be understood that the terminology used in this application is not intended to be limiting, as the scope of the present invention is limited solely by the appended claims.

As used in this application, the singular forms “the,” “the,” and “an” include both singular and plural references, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

The terms “comprising”, “includes” and “comprised of” as used herein are synonymous with “including”, “including” or “containing”, “contains” and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, unlisted members, components or process steps. It will be understood that the terms “comprising”, “comprising” and “made up of” as used in this application include the terms “consisting of” and “consisting of”.

The listing of numerical ranges with endpoints includes all numbers and fractions that fall within the associated ranges, as well as the endpoints listed.

The values, as used herein to refer to a measurable value, such as a parameter, a quantity, a duration or the like, mean variations of +/-10% or less, preferably +/-5% or less, more preferably +/-1% or less and even more preferably +/-0.1% or less of the specified value, to the extent that such variations are suitable for practice in the described invention. It should be understood that the value to which the modifier “about” or “approximately” refers is itself specific, and preferably described.

Although the terms “one or more” or “at least one”, such as one or more members or at least one member of a group of members are clear in themselves, by way of further explanation the terms include, among other things, a reference to one of said members or to any

7 BE2022/5811 any two or more of the said members, such as any = 3, = 4, 25.2 6 or z 7 etc. of the said members, and up to all the said members. The symbol “>” means equal to or greater than, e.g. = 3 means three (3) or more.

All references cited in the present description are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In particular, all references specifically referenced in this application incorporate the doctrine by reference.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in describing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the same meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. As further guidance, definitions of terms are included to better understand the teachings of the present invention.

In the following passages various aspects of the invention are defined in more detail. Any aspect defined as such may be combined with any other aspect or aspects unless clearly stated to the contrary. In particular, any feature identified as preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or features identified as preferred or advantageous.

Reference throughout this description to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a specific feature, structure or property described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in different places in this description do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment, but they could. Furthermore, the specific features, structures or properties may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments, as would be apparent from this description to one skilled in the art. Furthermore, while certain embodiments described in this application include some features included in other embodiments but not others, combinations of features of different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the invention, and to constitute separate embodiments, as would be apparent are for experts in the field. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed embodiments may be used in any combination.

8 BE2022/5811

In the present description of the invention, reference is made to the accompanying figures which form part thereof, and in which results of specific embodiments in which the invention has been and can be put into practice are shown solely by way of explanation.

The following detailed description is therefore not to be construed as limiting, and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

Masking an unpleasant odor from crop protection products when using them is necessary, especially in places frequented by the public.

Therefore, masking agents, in particular additives added to the plant protection product and allowing to mask or eliminate undesirable odors, can be introduced into the concentrated product - usually during the production of the formulated product before its application to the crop to be treated. surfaces.

Alternatively, the masking agents can also be added to a diluted solution of the crop protection product before applying to the surfaces to be treated.

The aim of the invention is to provide an alternative to currently used crop protection products to prevent them from leaving an unpleasant odor.

In a first aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a composition of masking agents, wherein the composition comprises at least one substance selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, for masking an odor from crop protection products.

In one embodiment, the invention relates to the use of a composition of masking agents as described herein wherein the odor is an unpleasant or malodorous or malodorous odor. The odor of substances can be observed and described as explained in the examples by a panel of odor experts who have been trained to recognize and describe odors.

It has unexpectedly been found that it is possible to mask unpleasant odors caused by crop protection products, such as insecticides, fungicides, nematicides, biocides, algicides, herbicides, such as pelargonic acid or pyridate, as a non-limiting example, by adding specific substances, also known as masking agents called to the active ingredient of crop protection products during

9 BE2022/5811 their preparation or formulation, or when making the dilution just before use on the surfaces to be treated.

In one embodiment, the use of the composition of markers comprises at least the organic acid, or an ester or a salt thereof selected from the list comprising undecylenic acid, isoamyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate and ethyl-methylpentanoate, preferably undecylenic acid or an ester or a salt of it.

Undecylenic acid is an organic compound with the formula CH2=CH(CH2)8CO2H. It is an unsaturated fatty acid. Undecylenic acid has the appearance of a colorless oil.

Undecylenic acid is mainly used for the production of Nylon-11 and in the treatment of fungal infections of the skin, but it is also an intermediate in the manufacture of many pharmaceuticals, personal hygiene products, cosmetics and perfumes. Salts and esters of undecylenic acid are known as undecylenates.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least isoamyl acetate. Isoamyl acetate, also known as isopentyl acetate, is an organic compound with a typical strong odor associated with bananas, but also sometimes with pear. As a result, it is often used as an aromatic and flavoring agent in products that should taste like banana, such as sweets. The substance occurs as a clear colorless viscous liquid, which is only moderately soluble in water, but readily soluble in most organic solvents.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof and isoamyl acetate.

In one embodiment, the use of the composition of markers comprises at least an aliphatic and aromatic alcohol selected from the list comprising hexanol, such as comprising 1-hexanol, 2-hexanol and 3-hexanol, 2,6-dimethyl-7-octene-2- oln 2,6-dimethyl-2-octenol and phenylethanol.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least hexanol. Hexanol is an organic alcohol with a six-carbon chain and a condensed structural formula of CH3(CH2)5OH. This colorless liquid is slightly soluble in water, but miscible with diethyl ether and ethanol. Hexanol is used in the perfume industry.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least isoamyl acetate and hexanol.

In one embodiment, the use of the composition of markers comprises at least undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof, isoamyl acetate and hexanol.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least an aliphatic and aromatic aldehyde selected from the list comprising trans-2-hexenal and phenylacetaldehyde.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least trans-2-hexenal. Trans-2-hexenal is an organic compound that belongs to the aldehydes.

It is a colorless liquid. It has a sharp, green leafy scent. When diluted this becomes a pleasant apple scent.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least isoamyl acetate, hexanol and trans-2-hexenal.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least one essential oil.

In one embodiment, the use of the composition of markers comprises at least one essential oil selected from the list comprising anise oil, basil oil, bergamot oil, cananga oil, cedar oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, cypress oil, pine oil, eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, geranium oil, jasmine oil, chamomile oil, cardamom oil, clove oil, laurel oil, lavender oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, mint oil, nutmeg oil, orange blossom oil, patchouli oil, peppermint oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, rose oil, rosewood oil, sage oil, sandalwood oil, clary sage oil, orange oil, thyme oil, verbena oil and

Ylang Ylang oil.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least orange oil.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof, isoamyl acetate, hexanol, anethole, estragole and at least one essential oil.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least isoamyl acetate, hexanol, anethole, estragole and at least one essential oil.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least one terpene or terpenoid, preferably several terpenes or terpenoids, or a combination of terpenes or terpenoids.

Terpenes are a large and diverse class of organic compounds produced by a variety of plants. They often smell strongly. Terpenes are biosynthetically derived from units of isoprene with the molecular formula C5H8. The

41 BE2022/5811 basic molecular formulas of terpenes are multiples thereof, (C3H2)n where n is the number of linked isoprene units. The isoprene units can be linked together "head to tail" to form linear chains or they can be arranged to form rings. Non-limiting examples of terpenes are hemiterpenes (one isoprene unit), monoterpenes (two units), sesquiterpenes (three units), diterpenes (four units), sesterterpenes (five units), triterpenes (six units), tetraterpenes (eight units), polyterpenes (4000 — 5000 units) and noisopreenoids. Terpenes are known for their olfactory stimulation and are often used in the manufacture of chewing gum, candy and mints. The scent of fruits and flowers is mainly due to nebulized terpenes that are registered by the olfactory receptor neurons in the nose. In citrus fruits, the main aromatic compounds are limonene and eucalyptol, both terpenes. Limonene can occur in the D-form or the L-form, called D-limonene and L-Limonene respectively. The aromatic compounds of clove oil include eugenol and B-caryophyllene, which are terpenes. The aromatic compounds of peppermint include limonene, menthone and menthol, all of which are terpenes.

Some examples of terpenes and their classification are as follows.

Hemiterpenes: Examples of hemiterpenes, which do not necessarily have an odor, are 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene, hemialboside and hymenoside. Monoterpenes: pinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, cis-pinane, trans-pinane, cis-pinanol, trans-pinanol, limonene; linalool; myrcene; eucalyptol; alpha-phellandrene; beta-phellandrene; alpha-ocimene; beta-ocimene, cis-ocimene, ocimene, delta-3-carene; fenchol; sabinene, borneol, isoborneol, camphene, camphor, phellandrene, alpha-phellandrene, C-terpinene, geraniol, nerol, menthol, terpinolene, alpha-terpinolene, beta-terpinolene, gamma-terpinolene, trans-a-terpinolene, delta-terpinolene - 2-pinanol.

Sesquiterpenes: caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, humulene, alpha-humulene, alpha-bisabolene; beta-bisabolene; santalol; selinene; nerolidol, bisabolol; alpha-cedrene, beta-cedrene, beta-eudesmol, eudesm-7 (11)-en-4-ol, selina-3,7 (11)-diene, guaiol, valencene, alpha-guaiene, beta-guaiene, delta- guaiene, guaiene, farnesene, alpa-farnesene, beta-farnesene, elemene, alpha-elemene, beta-elemene, gamma-elemene, delta-elemene, germacrene, germacrene A, germacrene B, germacrene C.

Diterpenes: oridonin, phytol and isofytol.

Triterpenes: ursolic acid and oleanolic acid.

Monoterpene is C10H16 and diterpene is C20H32. Isoprene is C5H8 (contains two double bonds).

12 BE2022/5811

Terpenoids, also known as isoprenoids, are a large and diverse class of naturally occurring organic chemicals, similar to terpenes, derived from five-carbon isoprene that has been synthesized and modified in thousands of ways. Most are multicyclic structures that differ from each other not only in functional groups but also in their basic carbon skeletons.

Plant terpenoids are widely used for their aromatic properties. They play a role in traditional herbal medicines and are being investigated for antibacterial, antineoplastic and other pharmaceutical functions.

In accordance with the present description, terpenes can be obtained commercially in various purities.

There are known suppliers of terpenes that are pure and homogeneous, contract laboratories that synthesize terpenes and contract laboratories that purify terpenes from natural products, for example, essential oils. Without implying any limitation, the term "pure" or “pure” may refer to a terpene that is more than 95% pure, more than 98% pure, more than 99% pure, more than 99.5% pure, more than 99.9% pure, more than 99.99% pure, and the like. In general, the terms "pure" and "pure" do not include any solvent that can be used to dissolve the terpene, such as any of the following non-exhaustive list of solvents which include ethanol, acetone and tetrahydrofuran. In other words, unless otherwise indicated explicitly or by context, any solvent present is irrelevant to the characterization of a particular terpene as pure and homogeneous.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least anethole. Anethole is a nonpolar aromatic unsaturated ether, with the gross formula ...— C10H120. Anethole gives the typical taste of anise and fennel. The compound is an isomer of estragole. Anethole has a distinctly sweet taste and is thirteen times sweeter than sugar. The taste is experienced as pleasant, even in high concentrations.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof, isoamyl acetate, hexanol, and anethole.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least estragole, Estragole is a phenylpropanoid and an isomer of anethole. It is a viscous, colorless liquid with an anise-like odor.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof, isoamyl acetate, hexanol, anethole and estragole.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least isoamyl acetate, hexanol, trans-2-hexenal, anethole and estragole.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, at least ten, at least fifteen or at least twenty terpenes and/or terpinoids.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition comprises at least one terpene or terpenoid, preferably several terpenes or terpenoids, selected from the list comprising monoterpenes and terpenoids, such as the list comprising pinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, cis- pinane, trans-pinane, mycrene, limonene, alpha-ocimene, beta-ocimene, cis-ocimene, ocimene, delta-3-carene, sabinene, camphene, phellandrene, alpha-phellandrene, beta-phellandrene, c-terpinene, terpinolene, alpha-terpinolene, beta-terpinolene, gamma-terpinolene, trans-alpha-terpinolene, delta-terpinolene, anethole, estragole, chavicol, safrole, fenchol, 2-pinonol, menthol, geraniol, nerol, linalook, eucalyptol, borneol, isoborneol, camphor and carvone.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least undecylenic acid or a salt or an ester thereof, isoamyl acetate, hexanol, anethole, estragole, trans 2 hexenal, at least one essential oil and at least one terpene.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least hexanol, D-limonene, L-limonene, trans 2 hexenal, estragole, alpha pinene, beta pinene, linaloo!, and anethole.

In one embodiment, the use of the marker composition includes at least isoamyl acetate, menthol, hexanol, anethole, eugenol, trans menthone, D-limonene, isomenthone, trans 2 hexenal, estragole, L-limonene, alpha pinene, beta pinene and linalool.

In one embodiment, the use of the composition of markers for masking an odor from plant protection products, preferably includes masking an unpleasant odor, wherein the odor comes from insecticides, fungicides, nematicides, biocides, algaecides or herbicides, preferably the odor being a waxy, greasy and rancid odor.

In one embodiment, the use comprises a composition of markers for masking an odor originating from a plant protection product, comprising at least a fatty acid, preferably comprising a C8, C9 or C10 fatty acid, preferably comprising caprylic acid, pelargonic acid or capric acid, or a salt or an ester thereof, or a

14 BE2022/5811 mixture of caprylic acid and/or capric acid and/or pelargonic acid and/or a salt or an ester thereof; or a mixture of caprylic acid and capric acid.

Caprylic acid may also be referred to as “1-Heptanecarboxylic acid” or “octanoic acid.”

Caprylic acid has antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties. It is also found in sweat and usually has an unpleasant irritating odor. It has a strong greasy and unpleasant odor.

Capric acid may also be referred to as “1-Nonanecarboxylic acid” or “decanoic acid”.

In one Embodiment, the odor originates from a crop protection product comprising at least pelargonic acid. It is used as an antimicrobial crop protection product. Experiments are also being conducted to use capric acid as a herbicide.

Pelargonic acid as used in this application may also be referred to as “nonanoic acid” or “1-octanecarboxylic acid” and refers to an organic compound consisting of a chain of nine carbon atoms ending in a carboxylic acid. In addition to pelargonic acid, its salt can also be used.

Pelargonic acid is a herbicide used as an inhibitor of the growth of shoots on plants. First, pelargonic acid appears to be very efficient. Pelargonic acid has been shown to effectively inhibit, disrupt and/or destroy shoot cells by inducing a natural pressure upon ingestion of pelargonic acid, which then disrupts the permeability of the plant's cell membranes, leading to a breakdown of the unwanted plant cells from said offshoot. As such, control in a field of plants can be easily achieved by applying pelargonic acid to the plant in the above concentrations, with a minimum of repetition. Nevertheless, pelargonic acid has a malodorous, unpleasant odor. It has been shown by the inventors that the use of a composition of marking substances as described herein masks the unpleasant odor of crop protection products, and in particular, of pelargonic acid.

In certain embodiments of the invention, derivatives of pelargonic acid can also be added to the composition of marker substances. Examples of pelargonic acid derivatives are synthetic esters, such as methyl pelargonate, ethyl pelargonate, as well as salts of pelargonic acid, and so on.

In certain embodiments, the odor comes from pyridate. Pyridate is a herbicide belonging to the pyridazines.

In certain embodiments, the invention includes the use of a composition of marking substances, wherein the composition comprises at least two, preferably at least three or more substances selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or

15 BE2022/5811 a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, for masking an odor from plant protection products. The organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids can be selected from the lists already described above.

Preferably, the composition comprises at least orange oil and one more substance from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids.

In certain embodiments, the invention includes the use of a composition of apple oil and its organic acids or ester or salt are selected from the list consisting of undecylenic acid, isoamyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate and ethyl methyl pentanoate.

In certain embodiments, the invention includes the use of a composition of apple oil and the aliphatic and aromatic alcohols are selected from the list comprising hexanol, such as comprising 1-hexanol, 2-hexanol and 3-hexanol, 2,6-dimethyl-7-octene -2-oln 2,6-dimethyl-2-octenol and phenylethanol.

In certain embodiments, the invention includes the use of an apple oil composition and the aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes are selected from the list including hexanol, such as trans-2-hexenal and phenylacetaldehyde.

In certain embodiments, the invention includes the use of a composition of apple oil and the other essential oils are selected from the list comprising anise oil, basil oil, bergamot oil, cananga oil, cedar oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, cypress oil, pine oil, eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, geranium oil, jasmine oil, chamomile oil, cardamom oil, clove oil, laurel oil, lavender oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, mint oil, nutmeg oil, orange blossom oil, patchouli oil, peppermint oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, rose oil, rosewood oil, sage oil, sandalwood oil, clary sage oil, orange oil, thyme oil, verbena oil and Ylang Ylang oil.

In certain embodiments, the invention includes the use of an apple oil composition and the terpenes and terpenoids are selected from the list comprising monoterpenes and terpenoids, such as the list comprising pinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, cis-pinene, trans-pinene, mycrene, limonene, alpha-ocimene, beta-ocimene, cis-ocimene, ocimene, delta-3-carene, sabinene, camphene, phellandrene, alpha-phellandrene, beta-phellandrene, c-terpinene, terpinolene, alpha-terpinolene, beta- terpinolene, gamma-terpinolene, trans-alpha-

16 BE2022/5811 terpinolene, delta-terpinolene, anethole, estragole, chavicol, safrole, fenchol, 2-pinonol, menthol, geraniol, nerol, linalook, eucalyptol, borneol, isoborneol, camphor and carvone.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition as described herein wherein the amount of a single substance in the masking agent composition ranges from at least 0.01 percent by weight to at most 15 percent by weight, preferably from 0.05 to 12.5 percent by weight, from 0.1 to 10 percent by weight, or from 1 to 8 percent by weight, from 2 to 7 percent by weight, from 3 to 6 percent by weight, more preferably from 1.5 to 7.5 percent by weight, from 1.95 to 6 percent by weight, from 2 to 5 percent by weight, most preferably from 0.1 to less than 0.5 percent by weight, from 0.5 to less than 2.5 percent by weight, from 2 to less than 8 percent by weight, from 0.5 to less than 5 percent by weight, from 5 to less than 15 percent by weight, where 100 percent by weight is the total amount of the composition of masking agents.

The markers mentioned are contained in a carrier oil (also called “carrier oil”). This can be a vegetable or synthetic oil. This could be sunflower oil, for example.

In the above embodiment, the carrier oil and the masking agents together constitute 100 percent by weight in the masking agent composition.

In a subsequent aspect, the present invention relates to a method for masking an odor originating from plant protection products, which at least comprises the step of mixing at least one masking substance with the plant protection product. In certain preferred embodiments, the crop protection product is an insecticide, fungicide, nematicide, biocide, algaecide or herbicide. In certain preferred embodiments, the crop protection agent is pelargonic acid.

In certain embodiments, the present embodiment relates to a method as described herein wherein the amount of marker substances added to the crop protection product, preferably to pelargonic acid, is in the range of 0.1 to 10 grams, preferably from 0.2 to 9 grams, or 0.3 to 8 grams, 0.4 to 7 grams, more preferably from 0.5 to 6 grams, from 0.75 to 4 grams, from 0.95 to 3 grams, from 1 to 2.5 grams, most preferably from 0.1 to 1 gram, from 0.5 to 3 grams, or from 1 to 2 grams of masking agents per 100 grams of crop protection product, preferably pelargonic acid.

In certain embodiments, the method described herein includes an additional step of formulating the crop protection product with the marker substances. The composition of pelargonic acid with masking agents is particularly effective when

17 BE2022/5811 is produced as a concentrated version suitable for dilution in use, for example formulated in the form of an emulsifiable concentrate (EC) or in an oil-in-water emulsion (EW), including a Pickering emulsion. The combination can also be prepared in other forms, such as in the form of an oil-in-water microemulsion (ME), an oil dispersion (OD), an aqueous solution (SL). In other embodiments, the crop protection product and the one or more masking agents may be in a ready-to-use, ready-to-use (AL) solution.

The formulation of the crop protection product and the one or more masking agents may furthermore contain non-ionic and ionic surfactants, as well as anionic surfactants, which serve as emulsifiers to obtain a stable emulsion in hard or soft water when the concentrated formulation is diluted. is placed in water.

The formulation of a crop protection product and one or more masking substances may furthermore contain one or more auxiliary substances or inert substances.

A list of examples of excipients or inerts includes, but is not limited to, organic solvents, antifreezes, thickeners, buffering agents, antifoaming agents, antioxidants, preservatives and coloring agents. Such excipients and inerts are known in the art and are commercially available.

In certain embodiments, the concentrated formulation further contains one or more nonionic surfactants selected from the list consisting of ethoxylated alcohols (e.g. Empilan KI 6) and polyethylene glycol alkyl ethers, such as octaethylene glycol monododecyl ether (e.g. Slovasol 248) or pentaethylene glycol monododecyl ether (e.g. .Marlipal 24/50); polypropylene glycol alkyl ethers (e.g. Witconol APM); glucoside alkyl ethers, such as decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, octyl glucoside, C8-C16 fatty alcohol glucoside (e.g. EcoSenseTM300 surfactant) or…—C8-C14 fatty alcohol glucoside (cocoglucoside) (e.g. EcoSenseTM 919 surfactant); polyethylene glycol octylphenyl ethers or octylphenol ethoxylates (9-10 EO) (e.g. Triton X-100); polyethylene glycol alkylphenyl ethers, such as nonoxynol-9 or Nonylphenol ethoxylates (10 EO) (e.g.

Makon 10); glycerol alkyl esters, such as glyceryl laurate (e.g. Monomuls 90-L-12); polyoxyethylene glycol sorbitan alkyl esters or polysorbates (e.g. Tween 85); sorbitan alkyl esters (e.g. Span 60); cocamide monoethanolamide (MEA) (e.g. Ninol CMP), cocamide diethonalamide (DEA) (e.g. Ninol 11-CM); dodecyldimethylamine oxide, such as

Lauramine oxide (e.g. Ammonyx); block copolymers of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol (e.g. Pluronic PE 10500); polyethoxylated tallow amine (POEA) (e.g.

Ethomeen C12); ethopropoxylated alcohols (e.g. Agnique® KE 3551); ethoxylated

18 BE2022/5811 tristyrylphenols (e.g. Soprophor® BSU); ethopropoxylated tristyrylphenols (e.g.

Soprophor® 796/P); ethoxylated tributylphenols (e.g. Sapogenat® T 080) and/or ethoxylated vegetable oils (e.g. ethoxylated castor oils, such as Lucramul® CO 40).

In certain embodiments of the method as described herein, the concentration of the pelargonic acid with the masking agents is in the emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) or the ready-to-use solution (AL) is in the range from 20 to 800 grams per liter, preferably from 25 to 750 grams, or from 50 to 700 grams per liter, with more preferably from 100 to 650 grams or from 200 to 200 grams, or from 300 to 550 grams per liter, most preferably from 350 to 550 grams, or from 400 to 500 grams, 500 grams per liter.

In certain embodiments of the method as described herein, the concentration of the pelargonic acid with the masking agents is in the emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) or the ready-to-use solution (AL) is in the range of grams per liter, preferably 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 , 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, 300, 310, 320, 330, 340, 350, 360, 370 , 380, 390, 400, 410, 420, 430, 440, 450, 460, 470, 480, 490, 500, 510, 520, 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580, 590, 610, 620 , 630, 640, 650, 660, 670, 680, 690, 700, 710, 20 720, 730, 740, 750, 760, 770, 780, 790 or 800 grams per liter.

The composition of pelargonic acid with masking agents is particularly efficient when produced as a concentrated version suitable for dilution as a dilution on plants, because the non-ionic surfactants dissolve the solution in an aqueous solvent, such as water, without reducing the effectiveness of the active ingredient to inhibit the growth of suckers on said plants.

In certain embodiments, the method as described herein thus comprises an additional step of making a dilute solution of the formulation comprising the crop protection agent, preferably pelargonic acid, and the masking agents. Preferably a dilution is made in water.

In certain embodiments of the method described herein, the amount or concentration of emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) in the range of at least 2.5% by weight to a maximum of 25% by weight, preferably from 4 to 20% by weight or from 5 to 15% by weight, more preferably from

19 BE2022/5811 6 to 12 percent by weight or from 7 to 10 percent by weight, most preferably from 7.5 to 8.5 percent by weight, where 100 percent by weight is the total amount of water with concentrate.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products, comprising at least the steps of 1) mixing at least one masking agent with the crop protection product, preferably with pelargonic acid, as described herein, 2) emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) of the crop protection product with at least one masking agent, such as described herein, and 3) making a dilute solution of the concentrate, as described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for masking the odor of plant protection products, wherein the at least one masking substance is selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, for masking an odor from crop protection products.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products wherein the organic acid, or ester or salt thereof is selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method of masking the odor of crop protection products wherein the aliphatic and aromatic alcohol is selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method of masking the odor of crop protection products wherein the aliphatic or aromatic aldehyde is selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products wherein the essential oil is selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products wherein terpene or terpenoid is selected from the list described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present embodiment relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products, wherein the composition of marker substances attached to the crop protection product, preferably pelargonic acid,

20 BE2022/5811 is added to at least orange oil, whereby the orange oil contains at least 0.5 percent by weight, preferably at least 1 percent by weight, 1.5 percent by weight, or 2 percent by weight, more preferably 2.5 percent by weight, 3 percent by weight, 3.5 percent by weight, 4 percent by weight or 5 percent by weight of the concentrated crop protection product, preferably pelargonic acid, and the concentration of pelargonic acid with marker is 500 grams per liter.

In certain embodiments, the present embodiment relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products, wherein the composition of marking substances added to the crop protection product, preferably to pelargonic acid, comprises at least the following substances: - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 5% hexanol, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% D-limonene, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% trans-hexenal, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% estragole, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% alpha pinene, - at least 0.01 % to a maximum of 0.5% beta pinene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% linalool, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% L-limonene, and - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% anethole, where 100% is the total amount of markers and solvent (for example a vegetable or synthetic oil such as sunflower oil). This is the composition of masking agents used in the examples in Composition 1. The amount of this masking agent composition added to concentrated pelargonic acid is in the range of at least 0.5 to 5 percent by weight, preferably 1 to 4 percent by weight, more preferably 2 to 3 percent by weight, most preferably 0.95 percent by weight.

In certain embodiments, the present embodiment relates to a method for masking the odor of crop protection products, wherein the composition of marking substances added to the crop protection product, preferably to pelargonic acid, comprises at least the following substances: - at least 5% to a maximum of 15% isoamyl acetate, - at least 2% to a maximum of 8% menthol, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% hexanol, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% anethole,

21 BE2022/5811 - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% eugenol, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% trans-menthone, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% D-limonene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% isomenthone, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% trans 2 hexenal, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% estragole, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% L-limonene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% alpha pinene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5 % beta pinene, and - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% linalool, where 100% is the total amount of markers and solvent (for example a vegetable or synthetic oil such as sunflower oil). This is the composition of masking agents used in the examples in Composition 2. The amount of this masking agent composition added to concentrated pelargonic acid is in the range of at least 0.5 to 5 percent by weight, preferably 1 to 4 percent by weight, more preferably 2 to 3 percent by weight, most preferably 0.95 percent by weight.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a method for masking the odor of plant protection products, wherein the odor is an unpleasant or malodorous odor. Preferably the smell comes from a C8, C9 or

C10 fatty acid, more preferably the odor comes from caprylic acid, pelargonic acid or capric acid.

In particular embodiments, the invention relates to a method for masking the odor of plant protection products, wherein the odor is a waxy, greasy and rancid odor.

In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of plant protection products, wherein the composition comprises at least one substance selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of plant protection products as described herein wherein the organic acid, or an ester or a salt thereof is selected from the list

22 BE2022/5811 comprising undecylenic acid, isoamyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate and ethyl-methylpentanoate.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of crop protection products as described herein wherein the aliphatic and aromatic alcohol is selected from the list comprising hexanol, such as comprising 1-hexanol, 2-hexanol and 3-hexanol, 2,6-dimethyl-7-octene-2-oln 2,6-dimethyl-2-octenol and phenylethanol.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of crop protection products as described herein wherein the aliphatic and aromatic aldehyde is selected from the list comprising trans-2-hexenal and phenylacetaldehyde.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of plant protection products as described herein wherein the essential oil is selected from the list comprising anise oil, basil oil, bergamot oil, cananga oil, cedar oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, cypress oil, pine oil , eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, geranium oil, jasmine oil, chamomile oil, cardamom oil, clove oil, laurel oil, lavender oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, mint oil, nutmeg oil, orange blossom oil, patchouli oil, peppermint oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, rose oil, rosewood oil, sage oil, sandalwood oil, clary sage oil, — orange oil, thyme oil, verbena oil and Ylang Ylang oil.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of plant protection products as described herein, wherein terpene or terpenoid is selected from the list comprising monoterpenes and terpenoids, such as the list comprising pinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene , cis-pinane, trans-pinane, mycrene, limonene, alpha-ocimene, beta-ocimene, cis-ocimene, ocimene, delta-3-carene, sabinene, camphene, phellandrene, alpha-phellandrene, beta-phellandrene, c-terpinene , terpinolene, alpha-terpinolene, beta-terpinolene, gamma-terpinolene, trans-alpha-terpinolene, delta-terpinolene, anethole, estragole, chavicol, safrole, fenchol, 2-pinonol, menthol, geraniol, nerol, linalook, eucalyptol, borneol , isoborneol, camphor and carvone

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of crop protection products as described herein, wherein the odor originates from a C8, C9 or C10 fatty acid, preferably from a crop protection product at least comprising caprylic acid, pelargonic acid or capric acid.

23 BE2022/5811

In a specific embodiment, the present invention relates to a composition for masking the odor of pelargonic acid.

In a further aspect, the present invention relates to a plant protection product comprising pelargonic acid and at least one compound selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids. , for masking an odor from crop protection products

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a plant protection product comprising pelargonic acid and an organic acid, or ester or salt thereof selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a plant protection product comprising pelargonic acid and an aliphatic and aromatic alcohol selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a plant protection product comprising pelargonic acid and an aliphatic or aromatic aldehyde selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a plant protection product comprising pelargonic acid and essential oil selected from the list comprising the substances described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a crop protection product comprising pelargonic acid and a terpene or terpenoid selected from the list described herein.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a crop protection product that preferably comprises pelargonic acid and at least orange oil.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a crop protection product preferably comprising pelargonic acid and at least one masking agent selected from the list comprising hexanol, D-limonene, trans-hexenal, estragole, alpha pinene, beta pinene, linalool, L-limonene, and anethole.

In certain embodiments, the present invention relates to a plant protection product preferably comprising pelargonic acid and at least one masking agent selected from the list comprising isoamyl acetate, menthol, hexanol, anethole, eugenol, trans-methone, D-limonene, isomentone, trans-2-hexenal , estragole, L-limonene, alpha pinene, beta pinene and linalool.

24 BE2022/5811

In a further aspect, the present invention relates to the use of a composition comprising a plant protection product, preferably pelargonic acid, and at least one substance selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, for masking an odor from crop protection products in the agricultural and horticultural industry.

It is known that recreational areas that attract a lot of public need regular and specific maintenance. Generally accepted crop protection products used by farmers in the field often emit an odor that is experienced as unpleasant or malodorous by passers-by. This odor can be very pertinent and linger for many hours or even several days after the treatment. The farmers themselves often use a mouth and nose mask for this. However, if the areas to be treated are on public or private property, such as in recreational areas and gardens, it is not convenient to walk around with mouth and nose masks in the hours following treatment. The inventors have found that the composition of masking agents that can be added to crop protection products, and in particular to pelargonic acid, are very effective in masking the odor considered unpleasant or malodorous.

In certain embodiments, the present invention thus relates to a use as described herein, including in the construction and maintenance of public spaces such as in the following non-limiting list: sports fields, amusement parks, city parks, nature parks, recreational parks, holiday parks, public parks, gardens , industrial sites, railways.

EXAMPLES

Example 1. Evaluation of the efficiency of an odor masking agent to mask the odor of pelargonic acid (Sensenet study)

Materials and methods

Line-up

Number of samples: - 1 sample contains orange oil as a masking agent: “PLA 500 EC+ orange oil” * - 1 sample contains COMPOUND 1 as a masking agent: “PLA 500 EC + Compound 1” **

25 BE2022/5811 - 1 control sample has the same composition but without the masking agent: “PLA 500 EC”

Compound 1 is a composition of masking agents according to claim 1 * In this sample, 3 grams of orange oil was added to 100 grams of pelargonic acid. **In this sample, 0.95 grams of Compound 1 was added to 100 grams of pelargonic acid.

PLA 500 EC + orange oil and PLA 500 EC + Compound 1 are preparations of pelargonic acid with masking agent formulated as a surfactant/emulsifier solution (also called “emulsifiable concentrate (EC)”) with a concentration of 500 grams/liter.

From each sample, a 7.5 weight percent surfactant/emulsifier solution is prepared in water and poured into a PET spray bottle.

Method

Immediately after preparation of the solution, the samples to be tested are sprayed onto a stainless steel plate. Approximately 1.0 gram of solution is sprayed evenly over the stainless steel plate. The stainless steel plate is placed in a stainless steel test chamber and then swept with a constant flow of neutral air for 20 minutes. At the exhaust side of the chamber, vapor space (also called “sample headspace”) is collected in a Nalophan headspace as shown in Figure 1. This is representative of what the final user would smell after spraying the sample onto a ground surface ).

Description of the sensory analysis

A descriptive sensory analysis (also called “sensory analysis”) allows the qualification and quantification of the olfactory perception of a product. Intensity, pleasure experience and odor description are the most important parameters used to characterize a scent.

After perception, the panelists indicate their findings according to the following parameters and scales. - Intensity

The intensity evaluation, which is based on a German standard (VDI 3882 part 1), is carried out by a panel of 8 persons selected according to the

EN 13725 standard, and were trained on an n-butanol reference scale.

During the evaluation, the panelists smell the sample directly and evaluate its intensity on a scale from 0 to 6 as shown in Table 1.

26 BE2022/5811

Table 1:

Odor Intensity Scale

According to VDI 3882 part 1 ne OE

Ee - Pleasure experience

Measuring the experience of pleasure (also called “Hedonic tone”), according to the

German standard VDI 3882 part 2, is carried out by a selected and trained panel of 8 to 15 people.

For each sample, the panel members give their impressions regarding the pleasant or unpleasant character of the odor on a scale from -4 to +4 as shown in Table 2.

Table 2:

Pleasure Experience Scale

According to VDI 3882 part 2

DM

- Fragrance description

The odor characterization is carried out using a highly standardized odor measurement approach and carried out by selected panel members who are regularly trained according to a specific (Sensenet's own) odor description method and framework.

The odor description framework (from Sensenet) contains approximately 50 descriptors covering a wide range of product and material sectors. Each descriptor is associated with an odorous mono-substance used as a reference for the training of the panelists. These descriptions are classified into different odor categories (bold, woody, fruity, sweet/spicy, etc.) (see Table 3 for how the odor categories are displayed in the English language).

Such a methodology enables odor characterization using a common and objective vocabulary.

The intensity of each descriptor mentioned is also assessed to provide a complete olfactory profile.

Table 3: Fragrance descriptions

Amine, cat urine, rotten fish

Sulphur-like Rotten egg

Rotten cabbage

28 BE2022/5811

II

Solvent, plastic

Pyro-burned Maillard aroma, toasted,

Raspberry

Presentation of the samples - Vapor space evaluation

To ensure a standardized presentation of the vapor space of the samples to be analyzed, a device called “Pure Sniff” can be used (see Figure 2). Thanks to this device, the flow, volume and presentation time are made identical for all panel members. - Sniff it immediately

The samples can also be evaluated by sniffing the odor immediately after applying the sample to a support (tissue paper, skin, textiles, etc.).

The panel

A panel of 15 experts was used who: - were selected according to their olfactory sensitivity (EN 13 725) and their ability to memorize and express their feelings in words, - are regularly trained in: o the use of the different intensity levels of an n-butanol scale. o the use of the descriptors of the reference framework using sniff sticks or solutions of the mono-substances corresponding to each reference.

Results of the sensory analysis 1. Overall intensity

The results are shown in Figure 3. e The average overall odor intensity of the sample PLA 500 EC was 2.8 (medium/perceivable). e The overall odor intensity of the sample PLA 500 EC+ orange oil has been reduced to 2.1 (weak).

e The average overall odor intensity of the sample PLA 500 EC+ Compound 1 was 2.7 (weak to medium/discernible).

Under these study conditions, the PLA 500 EC sample appears to have the highest average overall odor intensity, while the PLA 500 EC+ orange oil sample is perceived as the least odorous. The difference between these two samples is statically significant (p < 0.05). 2. Pelargonic acid intensity

To see whether the perception of pelargonic acid would be reduced by the addition of the masking agent compared to the control sample (same composition but without masking agent), the panel members were asked to intensify the pelargonic acid reference for each of the three samples at the same 0-6 scale.

The results of this are shown in Figure 4. e The average overall odor intensity of the PLA 500 EC sample was 2.8 (medium/perceptible), the same as under point 1. e The overall odor intensity of the PLA 500 EC+ orange oil sample is reduced to 1.5 (very weak to weak) regarding the pelargonic acid reference. The reduction is significant compared to the control sample. e The average odor intensity of the sample PLA 500 EC+ Compound 1 decreased to 1.8 (weak) with regard to the pelargonic acid reference.

Under these study conditions, orange oil causes a 46% reduction in pelargonic acid intensity and Compound 1 causes a 36% reduction in pelargonic acid intensity. These differences compared to the control sample are statistically significant (p < 0.05) (see Figure 4B and 4C). The difference between orange oil and

However, compound 1 is not significant. 3. Pleasure experience

Figure 5 represents the average pleasure experience. e The PLA 500 EC sample was rated 0.3 out of 2.8 (slightly unpleasant to neutral) by the panel. e For the PLA 500 EC+ orange oil sample, the rating increased to 0.6 (neutral to slightly pleasant).

e For the sample PLA 500 EC + Compound 1, the rating increased to 1.1 (poorly pleasant).

Under these study conditions, we observe an increase in the experience of pleasure for the sample

PLA 500 EC + orange oil and for the sample PLA 500 EC+ Compound 1 compared to the control sample. However, these differences are not statistically significant (p = 0.05). 4. Odor profile

The scent description revealed the following olfactory notes: - “Fresh, citrus” notes in relation to the training reference citral - “Lime, floral” notes in relation to the training reference linalool. - “Green, fresh grass” tests in connection with the training reference cis-3-hexenol. - “oily, floral, citrus” keys in connection with the training reference nonanal. - “Vanilla” keys in connection with the training reference vanillin. - “Sweet, caramelly” notes in relation to the training reference ethyl maltol. - “Banana” keys in connection with the training reference isoamyl acetate. - “Phenolic, plastic” keys in connection with the training reference phenol. - “Rancid, spicy” notes in connection with the training reference pelargonic acid.

The results are shown in Figure 6. e The sample PLA 500 EC has an olfactory profile with mostly rancid and spicy notes (also called “pungent” in English) (pelargonic acid). Oily and citrus notes were also found from the reference nonanal. e The sample PLA 500 EC+ orange oil has an olfactory profile with mostly rancid and sharp notes. There are also citrus and citrus/greasy notes (citral and nonanal), green fatty notes (cis-3-hexenol) and plastic notes (phenol) e The sample PLA 500 EC+ Compound 1 has an olfactory profile mostly rancid and sharp notes. In addition, lime notes (linaloo!), greasy citrus notes (Nonanal) as well as banana (isoamyl acetate) and sweet notes (ethyl maltol) are also found.

Example 2. Evaluation of the efficiency of an odor masking agent to mask the odor of pelargonic acid (Belchim Crop Protection (BCP).

39 BE2022/5811

Materials and methods

Line-up

Number of samples: - 3 samples containing Compound 3 as a masking agent in 3 different concentrations: “PLA 500 EC+ Compound 3”* - 3 samples containing Compound 4 as a masking agent in 3 different concentrations: “PLA 500 EC + Compound 4”* - Containing 3 samples Compound 1 as a masking agent in 3 different concentrations: “PLA 500 EC + Compound 1”** - 3 samples containing Compound 2 as a masking agent in 3 different concentrations: “PLA 500 EC + Compound 2”** - 1 control sample has the same composition but without the masking agent: “PLA 500 EC”

Compounds 1, 2, 3 and 4 are compositions of masking agents according to claim 1, namely a composition of masking agents where the composition comprises at least one substance selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids.

The compounds are added to pelargonic acid after which a 500 g/liter formulation (EC) is prepared. * The following amounts of compound were added: 0.1%, 1% and 2%. **The following amounts of compound were added: 0.1%, 0.95% and 2%.

Method

After the preparation of the solutions, an amount of sample corresponding to 1800 liters/ha was sprayed on an area adjacent to the BCP laboratory building. 1.08 liters of each sample were sprayed. 90 minutes after spraying, the general odor intensity and the experience of pleasure were measured (see also example 1).

Table 4: Scale mi | Sea light pleasant

Nase

Slightly unpleasant

Medium/observable

Very strong

Results

The results are shown in Table 5.

Table 5

PLA 500 EC

PLA 500 EC + 0.1%

Compound 3 „22 4.20

PLA 500 EC + 1%

Compound 3°3.20

PLA 500 EC + 2%

Compound 3 ° 1.5 3.40

PLA 500 EC + °

PLA 500 EC + 1%

Compound 4° 2.2 3.60

PLA 500 EC + 2%

Compound 4° 1.6 4.20

34 BE2022/5811

PLA 500 EC + °

Compound 1 0.1% -0.5 2.70

PLA 500 EC + 0

PLA 500 EC + 29%

Compound 1° 1.6 2.20

PLA 500 EC + 01%

Compound 2 a -0.5 2.80

PLA 500 EC + 0

PLA 500 EC + 29%

Compound 2 ° 1 2.90

Claims (20)

CONCLUSIONS (retyped version) 1. Use of a composition of masking agents where the composition comprises at least two substances selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids, for masking an odor from crop protection products. Use according to claim 1 wherein the organic acid, or an ester or a salt thereof, is selected from the list comprising undecylenic acid, isoamyl acetate, ethyl acetoacetate and ethyl 2-methylpentanoate. Use according to claim 1 wherein the aliphatic and aromatic alcohol is selected from the list comprising hexanol, such as comprising 1-hexanol, 2-hexanol and 3-hexanol, 2,6-dimethyl-7-octene-2-O/n 2.6 -dimethyl-2-octenol and phenylethanol. Use according to claim 1 wherein the aliphatic and aromatic aldehyde is selected from the list comprising trans-2-hexenal and phenylacetaldehyde. Use according to claim 1 wherein the essential oil is selected from the list comprising anise oil, basil oil, bergamot oil, cananga oil, cedar oil, lemon oil, lemongrass oil, cypress oil, pine oil, eucalyptus oil, frankincense oil, ginger oil, geranium oil, jasmine oil, chamomile oil, cardamom oil , clove oil, laurel oil, lavender oil, lime oil, mandarin oil, mint oil, nutmeg oil, orange blossom oil, patchouli oil, peppermint oil, grapefruit oil, rosemary oil, rose oil, rosewood oil, sage oil, sandalwood oil, clary sage oil, orange oil, thyme oil, verbena oil and Ylang Ylang oil. Use according to claim 1, wherein terpene or terpenoid is selected from the list comprising monoterpenes and terpenoids, such as the list comprising pinene, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, cis-pinane, trans-pinane, mycrene, limonene, alpha-ocimene , beta-ocimene, cis-ocimene, ocimene, delta-3-carene, sabinene, camphene, phellandrene, alpha-phellandrene, beta-phellandrene, c-terpinene, terpinolene, alpha-terpinolene, beta-terpinolene, gamma-terpinolene, trans -alpha- terpinolene, delta-terpinolene, anethole, estragole, chavicol, safrole, fenchol, 2-pinonol, menthol, geraniol, nerol, linalool, eucalyptol, borneol, isoborneol, camphor and carvone. Use according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the odor comes from a crop protection product comprising at least a C8 to C10 fatty acid. 36 BE2022/5811 Use according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the odor comes from a crop protection product comprising at least pelargonic acid. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the masking agent composition comprises at least orange oil. Use of a masking agent composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the masking agent composition comprises at least three or more substances selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils, and terpenes and terpenoids for masking odors from crop protection products. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the amount of a single substance in the composition of masking agents is in the range from at least 0.01% by weight to at most 15% by weight, preferably from 0.05 to 12.5% by weight, from 0.1 to 10% by weight, or from 1 to 8 weight percent, from 2 to 7 weight percent, from 3 to 6 weight percent, more preferably from 1.5 to 7.5 weight percent, from 1.95 to 6 weight percent, from 2 to 5 weight percent, most preferably from 0.1 to less than 0.5 percent by weight, from 0.5 to less than 2.5 percent by weight, from 2 to less than 8 percent by weight, from 0.5 to less than 5 percent by weight, from 5 to less than 15 percent by weight, where 100 percent by weight is the total amount of the composition of masking agents. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the composition of masking agents comprises at least the following substances: - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 5% hexanol, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% D-limonene, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% trans-hexenal, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% estragole, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% alpha pinene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% beta pinene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% linalool, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% L-limonene, and - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% anethole, where 100% is the total amount of markers and a solvent, such as a vegetable or synthetic oil such as sunflower oil. 37 BE2022/5811 Use according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the composition of masking agents comprises at least the following substances: - at least 5% to a maximum of 15% isoamyl acetate, - at least 2% to a maximum of 8% menthol, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% hexanol, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% anethole, - at least 0.5% to a maximum of 2.5% eugenol, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% trans-menthone, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% D-limonene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% isomenthone, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% trans 2 hexenal, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% estragole, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% L-limonene, - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% alpha pinene , - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% beta pinene, and - at least 0.01% to a maximum of 0.5% linalool, where 100% is the total amount of markers and a solvent, such as a vegetable or synthetic oil such as sunflower oil. 14. Method for masking an odor originating from plant protection products which includes at least the steps of 1) mixing at least two masking substances with the plant protection product, preferably pelargonic acid, 2) making an emulsifiable concentrate (EC), an oil-in -water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, an oil dispersion (OD), a micro emulsion (ME), an aqueous solution (SL) or a ready-to-use solution (AL) of the at least two masking substances with the crop protection product, preferably with pelargonic acid. 15. Method according to claim 14, wherein the amount of masking substances added to the crop protection product, preferably to pelargonic acid, is in the range from 0.1 to 10 grams, preferably from 0.2 to 9 grams, or from 0.3 to 8 grams, 0.4 to 7 grams. , more preferably from 0.5 to 6 grams, from 0.75 to 4 grams, from 0.95 to 3 grams, from 1 to 2.5 grams, most preferably from 0.1 to 1 gram, from 0.5 to 3 grams, or from 1 to 2 grams masking agents per 100 grams of crop protection product, preferably pelargonic acid. 16. Method according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the concentration of the pelargonic acid with the masking agents in the emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) 38 BE2022/5811 including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) or the ready-to-use solution (AL) is in the range from 20 to 800 grams per liter, preferably from 25 to 750 grams, or from 50 to 700 grams per liter, more preferably from 100 to 650 grams or from 200 to 200 grams, or from 300 to 550 grams per liter, most preferably from 350 to 550 grams , or from 400 to 500 grams, 500 grams per liter. A method according to any one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the amount of emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL) is in the range of at least 2.5% by weight to at most 25% by weight, preferably from 4 to 20% by weight or from 5 to 15% by weight, more preferably from 6 to 12% by weight or from 7 to 10% by weight, most preferably from 7.5 to 8.5 percent by weight, where 100 percent by weight is the total amount of water with emulsifiable concentrate (EC), the oil-in-water emulsion (EW) including a Pickering emulsion, the oil dispersion (OD), the micro emulsion (ME), the aqueous solution (SL). A method according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the odor comes from a crop protection product comprising at least pelargonic acid. 19. Use of a composition comprising (i) pelargonic acid and (ii) a composition of masking agents comprising at least two masking agents selected from the list comprising organic acids or an ester or a salt thereof, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, essential oils , and terpenes and terpenoids, in the agricultural and horticultural industry. Use according to any one of claims 1 to 13 or according to claim 19 in the construction and maintenance of gardens and public spaces including sports fields, amusement parks, city parks, nature parks, recreational parks, holiday parks, public parks, industrial sites and railways.