BR112018072884B1 - AQUEOUS GLYPHOSATE CONCENTRATE COMPOSITIONS CONTAINING AMIDOALKYLAMINE SURFACTANTS AND METHOD FOR KILLING OR CONTROLLING WEEDS OR UNWANTED VEGETATION - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a herbicide composition comprising (a) glyphosate or a derivative thereof, (b) an amidoalkylamine surfactant of formula (1): wherein R1 is a hydrocarbyl having about 1 carbon atom a about 22 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are each independently hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl having from 1 to about 6 carbon atoms and R4 is hydrocarbylene or substituted hydrocarbylene having from 1 to about 6 carbon atoms and (c ) a cosurfactant component comprising at least one cosurfactant selected from, for example, alkoxylated tertiary amine oxides, amidoamine alkoxylates and betaines.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention generally relates to herbicidal compositions comprising glyphosate and surfactant mixtures comprising an amidoalkylamine surfactant and certain cosurfactants.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] N-phosphonomethylglycine ("glyphosate") is an effective post-emergence herbicide applied to the foliar area. In its acid form, the structure of glyphosate is:

[0003] Since glyphosate in its acid form is relatively insoluble in water (1.16% by weight at 25°C), it is typically formulated as a water-soluble salt. Glyphosate is typically formulated as a monobasic, dibasic, or tribasic salt.

[0004] Typical salts of glyphosate include, for example, the salts of mono(isopropylammonium) ("IPA"), potassium, sodium, monoethanolammonium ("MEA"), trimethylsulfonium ("TMS"), ammonium salts, diammonium, n-propylamine, ethylamine, ethylenediamine and hexamethylenediamine. One of the most widely used salts of glyphosate is the IPA salt present in Monsanto Company's ROUNDUP commercial herbicide.

[0005] Glyphosate salts are typically co-formulated with a surfactant to maximize herbicidal efficacy. However, the development of concentrated glyphosate formulations in the range of 480 g a.e./L to 700 g a.e./L is challenging due to limited surfactant compatibility at high glyphosate loadings. In this context and throughout this specification, "g of a.e./L" means grams of acid equivalent per liter of solution, which refers to the concentration of glyphosate in its acid form.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Compositions comprising glyphosate or a derivative thereof (e.g., a salt or ester thereof), an amidoalkylamine surfactant, and at least one cosurfactant are provided herein.

[0007] For example, provided herein is a concentrated aqueous herbicide composition comprising (a) glyphosate or a derivative thereof; (b) an amidoalkylamine surfactant of formula (1): wherein R1 is alkyl or alkenyl, each optionally substituted and having an average of about 4 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are independently alkyl having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and R4 is alkylene having 1 to 4 carbon atoms; and (c) a cosurfactant component comprising at least one cosurfactant selected from the group consisting of: an alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide of formula (2): wherein R21 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R22 in each of the groups (R22-O) is independently selected from C1-C4 alkylene, wherein at least one R22 is different from at least one other R22; R23 in each of the groups (R23-O) is independently selected from C1-C4 alkylene; each R24 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; ex and y are average numbers such that x is at least 2 and the sum of x and y is from 3 to about 30; a cosurfactant of formula (3): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; each R32 is independently selected from NR301 and (N+)R301R302; and R36 is selected from NR301R303 and (N+)R301R303R304; wherein each R301 is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, C(O)R33 and (R34-O)mR35; each R302 is independently selected from the group consisting of oxygen, C1-C4 alkyl, and (R34-O)mR35; and each R303 and R304 is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C5 alkyl and (R34-O)mR35; wherein each R33 is independently a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms or OR331, wherein each R331 is independently hydrogen or a salt-forming cation; R34 in each of the groups (R34-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; and R35 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; en is from 0 to 3; a cosurfactant comprising a betaine of formula (4): wherein R41 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; and each R42 is independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R43-O)mR44, wherein R43 in each of the groups (R43-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R44 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1 -C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; a cosurfactant of formula (5a): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the chain of hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkylene; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; a cosurfactant of formula (5b): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the chain of hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected of hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; and R55 is selected from CH2CO2- and oxygen; and a cosurfactant of formula (5c): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the chain of hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number such that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30. The cosurfactant component may comprise any combination of cosurfactants of formula (2), formula ( 3), formula (4), formula (5a), formula (5b) and/or formula (5c).

[0008] According to one embodiment, the cosurfactant component of the aqueous herbicide concentrate composition comprises an alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide of formula (2): R21 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R22 in each of the groups (R22-O) is independently selected from C1-C4 alkylene, wherein at least one R22 is different from at least one other R22; R23 in each of the groups (R23-O) is independently selected from C1-C4 alkylene; each R24 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; ex and y are average numbers such that x is at least 2 and the sum of x and y is from 3 to about 30.

[0009] According to another embodiment, the cosurfactant component of the aqueous herbicide concentrate composition comprises a cosurfactant of formula (3): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; each R32 is independently selected from NR301 and (N+)R301R302; and R36 is selected from NR301R303 and (N+)R301R303R304; wherein each R301 is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, C(O)R33 and (R34-O)mR35, each R302 is independently selected from the group consisting of oxygen, C1-C4 alkyl, and (R34-O )mR35; and each R303 and R304 is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C5 alkyl and (R34-O)mR35; wherein each R33 is independently a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms or OR331, wherein each R331 is independently hydrogen or a salt-forming cation; R34 in each of the groups (R34-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; and R35 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; en is from 0 to 3.

[00010] Composition according to another embodiment, in which the cosurfactant component of the aqueous herbicide concentrate composition comprises a betaine of formula (4): wherein R41 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; and each R42 is independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R43-O)mR44, wherein R43 in each of the groups (R43-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R44 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1 -C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00011] According to another embodiment, the cosurfactant component of the aqueous herbicide concentrate composition comprises a cosurfactant of formula (5a): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the chain of hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkylene; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00012] According to another embodiment, the cosurfactant component of the aqueous herbicide concentrate composition comprises a cosurfactant of formula (5b): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the chain of hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected of hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; and R55 is selected from CH2CO2- and oxygen.

[00013] According to yet another embodiment, the cosurfactant component of the aqueous herbicide concentrate composition comprises a cosurfactant of formula (5c): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the chain of hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00014] Also provided herein is a method for killing or controlling weeds or unwanted vegetation comprising diluting a composition described herein in an amount of water to form an application mixture; and applying a herbicidally effective amount of the application mixture to the foliage of the weeds or unwanted vegetation.

[00015] Other objects and characteristics will be partly apparent and partly indicated below.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT(S) OF THE INVENTION

[00016] In general, the present invention is directed to a herbicide composition comprising glyphosate or a derivative thereof (e.g., a salt or ester thereof), an amidoalkylamine surfactant, and a cosurfactant component comprising skin minus a cosurfactant . Generally, the cosurfactant component may include one or more cosurfactants of formulas (2), (3), (4), (5a), (5b) and (5c) as described herein and may be selected from, for example, oxides of alkoxylated tertiary amine, amidoamine alkoxylates and betaines.

[00017] Generally, the composition may be an aqueous or solid herbicide concentrate having a high load of glyphosate component or a ready-to-use ("RTU") formulation prepared by diluting herbicide concentrates with water.

[00018] The high-load glyphosate concentrates of the present invention are made possible through the use of amidoalkylamine surfactants, which have been found to be compatible with a wide variety of glyphosate salts. For example, surfactants were found to be compatible with diammonium salt, potassium salt and monoethanolamine glyphosate salt and allowed the preparation of stable concentrates even at high concentrations of these glyphosate salts.

[00019] It has also been found that amidoalkylamine surfactants are efficient coupling agents for a variety of cosurfactants, including, for example, the alkoxylated tertiary amine oxides, amidoamine alkoxylates and betaines described herein. Advantageously, the combination of an amidoalkylamine surfactant and certain cosurfactants allows the preparation of compositions having high concentrations of glyphosate salt and surfactant. For example, compositions having high glyphosate salt concentrations of 360 g a.e./L to 650 g a.e./L, together with a surfactant loading of between 80 g a.e./L to 200 g a.e./L can be prepared successfully. The combination of an amidoalkylamine surfactant and cosurfactants as described here allows the preparation of high loading glyphosate formulations that exhibit long-term storage stability. The use of amidoalkylamine surfactants allows the preparation of highly charged glyphosate formulations comprising a higher proportion (relative to the total surfactant concentration) of cosurfactant, which further improves the bioefficacy of the herbicidal compositions described herein.

[00020] Furthermore, it has been discovered that the use of a surfactant mixture comprising an amidoalkylamine surfactant coupled with at least one other cosurfactant can improve the compatibility of glyphosate compositions with co-herbicides, particularly when such co-herbicides are mixed in tank with diluted ready-to-use formulations immediately before use.

[00021] It has further been discovered that glyphosate formulations of the present invention comprising surfactant mixtures as described herein can exhibit low levels of eye irritation, skin toxicity and environmental toxicity.

[00022] The glyphosate component of the compositions of the present invention is typically primarily responsible for plant suppression or death (i.e., bioefficacy) and is essential for providing long-term herbicidal control. The glyphosate component comprises glyphosate acid and/or agronomically acceptable derivatives thereof. Derivatives include salts, esters or compounds that are converted to glyphosate in plant tissues or that otherwise provide glyphosate anions. In this regard, it should be noted that the term "glyphosate", "glyphosate derivative" and "glyphosate component", when used herein, comprises glyphosate, derivatives and mixtures thereof, unless the context otherwise requires . Furthermore, the term "agronomically acceptable" includes glyphosate derivatives that enable the agriculturally and economically useful herbicidal activity of a glyphosate anion in residential or industrial applications.

[00023] In the aqueous herbicidal compositions of the present invention, it is preferred that the glyphosate component predominantly comprises one or more of the more water-soluble glyphosate salts. As used throughout this specification, the expression "predominantly comprises" means that more than 50%, for example at least about 75%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, at least about 98 %, at least about 99%, or at least about 99.9% by weight of the component of the herbicidal composition is comprised of the specified compound(s). A glyphosate component predominantly comprising one or more of the various glyphosate salts is preferred in part because its greater solubility in water allows the formulation of highly concentrated herbicidal compositions that can be easily transported and readily diluted with water in the preparation of sprayable RTU compositions. in the intended location of use.

[00024] Suitable glyphosate salts include monobasic, dibasic or tribasic glyphosate salts and include organic amines, alkali metal, alkaline earth metal, ammonium (e.g. monoammonium, diammonium or triammonium) and sulfonium (e.g. monosulfonium, disulfonium or trimethylsulfonium ("TMS"). Organic amine salts may comprise aliphatic or aromatic amine salts and may include primary, secondary, tertiary or quaternary amine salts. Specific representative examples of such organic amine salts include isopropylamine ("TMS") salts. IPA", n-propylamine, ethylamine, dimethylamine ("DMA"), monoethanolamine ("MEA"), triethanolamine ("TEA"), ethylenediamine and glyphosate hexamethylenediamine. Specific representative examples of alkali metal salts include potassium and sodium salts of glyphosate. According to more preferred embodiments of the invention, the glyphosate component predominantly comprises a glyphosate salt selected from salts of potassium, monoammonium, diammonium, sodium, MEA, n-propylamine, IPA, ethylamine, DMA, ethylenediamine, hexamethylenediamine and TMS salts and combinations thereof. Of these, MEA, diammonium and potassium salts and combinations thereof are especially preferred.

[00025] Previous studies have indicated that the various glyphosate salts have considerable differences in their compatibility with surfactants. In some cases, the potassium salt of glyphosate has been shown to be advantageous due to its high solubility in water and the resulting high density that allows greater active loading in formulations. However, glyphosate potassium offers limited compatibility with common surfactants used with glyphosate. An aspect of the present invention is therefore the ability of amidoalkylamine surfactants to improve the compatibility of potassium glyphosate with surfactants in a high glyphosate loading formulation. The use of amidoalkylamine surfactants allows the preparation of glyphosate formulations with higher active and surfactant loadings, as well as increased levels of alkoxylation of cosurfactants, for example tertiary amine oxide surfactants.

[00026] It has also been observed that certain of the other glyphosate salts are difficult to formulate in batches of, for example, about 540 g a.e./L, or greater, such as about 600 g a.e./L and greater in combination with a surfactant component. The other glyphosate salts have been observed to offer better compatibility with surfactants compared to the potassium salt. For example, monoethanolamine glyphosate (MEA) has been observed to be more compatible with a wider variety of surfactants. However, the limited solubility and density of the glyphosate MEA salt is a limiting factor in formulating a liquid herbicide concentrate. In this regard, mixtures of two or more glyphosate salts may allow the preparation of highly charged formulations containing amidoalkylamine coupling agents mixed with a cosurfactant at higher levels than when formulated with glyphosate potassium salt alone.

[00027] For example, in some examples, the herbicidal composition of the present invention comprises a mixture of glyphosate potassium salt and monoethanolamine glyphosate salt. The weight ratio of the potassium salt of glyphosate in grams of acid equivalent to the monoethanolamine salt of glyphosate in grams of acid equivalent may be between about 1:1 to about 4:1, such as about 7:3. In some preferred embodiments, the weight ratio of the potassium salt of glyphosate in grams of acid equivalent to the monoethanolamine salt of glyphosate in grams of acid equivalent is about 7:3, which allows the weight ratios of cosurfactants for amidoalkylamine coupling agents range from at least about 60:40, at least about 65:35, and in some cases at least about 70:30.

[00028] In other cases, the herbicidal composition comprises a mixture of the potassium salt of glyphosate and the ammonium salt of glyphosate; a mixture of the isopropylammonium salt of glyphosate and the ammonium salt of glyphosate; a mixture of glyphosate potassium salt and glyphosate isopropylamine salt; a mixture of the potassium salt of glyphosate and the triethanolamine salt of glyphosate; or a mixture of the dimethylamine salt of glyphosate and the triethanolamine salt of glyphosate. In some cases, these glyphosate salts may generally be combined in a ratio of about 1:4 to about 4:1 (e.g., in a ratio of about 1:1 to about 4:1).

[00029] The herbicidal compositions of the present invention can be formulated as aqueous solutions. The term "aqueous", as used herein, refers to compositions comprising water in an amount that makes it the predominant solvent. "Aqueous" is not intended to exclude the presence of non-aqueous (i.e., organic) solvents as long as water is present. Examples of suitable non-aqueous solvents include toluene, xylenes, petroleum naphtha, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, ethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, ethanol and hexanol.

[00030] The concentration of the glyphosate component in an aqueous herbicide concentrate according to the present invention is typically at least about 300 grams of acid equivalent per liter ("g of a.e./L"), such as at at least about 360 g a.e./L, or such as at least about 390 g a.e./L. In preferred compositions of the invention, the glyphosate concentration is not less than about 400 g a.e./L or about 420 g a.e./L, in particularly preferred compositions not less than about 480 g a.e./L, about 500 g of a.e./L, about 540 g of a.e./L, about 580 g of a.e./L, about 600 g of a.e./L, or even about 620 g of a.e./L, for example, about 480 to about 540 g a.e./L, or about 480 to about 600 g a.e./L or more. As a consequence, in some cases, the concentration of the glyphosate component in a herbicide concentrate may be between about 300 g a.e./L and about 600 g a.e./L, between about 420 g a.e./L and about of 600 g a.e./L, or between about 480 g a.e./L and about 540 g a.e./L. In preferred herbicide concentrate compositions, the concentration of the glyphosate component may be from about 480 g a.e./L to about 620 g a.e./L, for example, from about 480 g a.e./L to about 600 g a.e./L, or from about 540 to about 620 g a.e./L. It is believed that the upper limit of the concentration of glyphosate in a storage-stable surfactant-containing composition of the invention is greater than about 650 g a.e./L, e.g., to about 700 g a.e./L, this limit being a consequence of the solubility limit of glyphosate and glyphosate salts in water, compounded by an additional limitation due to the presence of surfactant.

[00031] The solid concentrate compositions of the invention preferably comprise glyphosate or a derivative thereof in a concentration greater than 30% by weight of the acid equivalent of the composition, such as between about 30% and about 90% by weight. of acid equivalent of the composition, from about 40% to about 90% by weight of acid equivalent of the composition, more preferably, from about 50% to about 80% by weight of acid equivalent of the composition.

[00032] The present invention is further directed to RTU formulations prepared by diluting herbicide concentrates with appropriate amounts of water. The concentration of the glyphosate component in aqueous RTU compositions of the present invention is typically at least about 1 g a.e./L, and generally from about 1 g a.e./L to about 50 g a.e./L. In order to provide more economical RTU formulations providing prolonged herbicidal activity, the concentration of the glyphosate component in the RTU composition is more preferably from about 5 g a.e./L to about 20 g a.e./L.

[00033] The compositions of the present invention comprise one or more amidoalkylamine surfactants. Midoalkylamine surfactants added to the formulation can increase the stability of highly loaded glyphosate concentrates and/or increase bioefficiency when combined with at least one other cosurfactant. Amidoalkylamine surfactants have the general structure of formula (1): wherein R1 is a hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl having from 1 to about 22 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are each independently hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl having from 1 to about 6 carbon atoms, and R4 is hydrocarbylene or substituted hydrocarbylene having from 1 to about 6 carbon atoms. R1 is preferably alkyl or alkenyl, each optionally substituted and having an average carbon atom value of between about 4 to about 22 carbon atoms, preferably an average carbon atom value of between about 4 and about 18 carbon atoms. , more preferably, an average value of about 4 to about 12 carbon atoms, more preferably, an average value of about 5 to about 12 carbon atoms, even more preferably, an average value of about 6 to about 12 carbon atoms and even more preferably, an average value of about 6 to about 10 carbon atoms. The alkyl group R1 can be derived from a variety of sources that provide alkyl groups having from about 4 to about 18 carbon atoms, for example, the source can be butanoic acid, pentanoic acid, hexanoic acid, heptanoic acid, octanoic acid , nonanoic acid, decanoic acid, undecanoic acid, dodecanoic acid, tridecanoic acid, tetradecanoic acid, pentadecanoic acid, hexadecanoic acid, heptadecanoic acid or octadecanoic acid. The R1 alkyl or alkenyl group may also be derived from coconut (mainly comprising dodecanoic acid), palm (e.g. tetradecanoic acid derived from palm oil), soybean (mainly comprising linoleic acid, oleic acid and hexadecanoic acid), TOFA ( tallow oil), rapeseed (mainly comprising erucic acid and glucosinolate), low-erucic acid rapeseed, or tallow (mainly comprising hexadecanoic acid, oleic acid and octadecanoic acid). In some embodiments, the amidoalkylamine surfactant component may comprise a mixture of amidoalkylamines having alkyl and/or alkenyl chains of various lengths from about 5 carbon atoms to about 12 carbon atoms. For example, depending on the source of the alkyl and/or alkenyl group R1, an amidoalkylamine surfactant component may comprise a mixture of surfactants having R1 groups that are 5 carbon atoms long, 6 carbon atoms long, 7 carbon atoms long, carbon long, 8 carbon atoms long, 9 carbon atoms long, 10 carbon atoms long, 11 carbon atoms long and 12 carbon atoms long, longer carbon chains and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the amidoalkylamine surfactant component may comprise a mixture of surfactants having R1 groups that are 5 carbon atoms long, 6 carbon atoms long, 7 carbon atoms long, and 8 carbon atoms long. In some alternative embodiments, the amidoalkylamine surfactant component may comprise a mixture of surfactants having R1 groups that are 6 carbon atoms long, 7 carbon atoms long, 8 carbon atoms long, 9 carbon atoms long , and 10 carbon atoms in length. In other embodiments, the amidoalkylamine surfactant component may comprise a mixture of surfactants having R1 groups 8 carbon atoms long, 9 carbon atoms long, 10 carbon atoms long, 11 carbon atoms long, and 12 carbon atoms long. long carbon. R2 and R3 independently are preferably an alkyl or substituted alkyl having from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms. R2 and R3 are more preferably, independently, an alkyl having from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms, and more preferably, methyl. R4 is preferably an alkylene or substituted alkylene group having from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms. R4 is preferably an alkylene having from 1 to about 4 carbon atoms and preferably n-propylene.

[00034] In some cases, the amidoalkylamine surfactant is a compound of formula (1) in which R1 is alkyl having an average of between about 4 carbon atoms to about 18 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are independently alkyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms and R4 is an alkylene having 1 to 4 carbon atoms.

[00035] For example, the amidoalkylamine surfactant may be a compound of formula (1) in which R1 is C6-10, that is, an alkyl group having 6 carbon atoms, 7 carbon atoms, 8 carbon atoms, 9 carbon atoms, 10 carbon atoms, or a mixture of any of these, that is, from about 6 carbon atoms to about 10 carbon atoms; R2 and R3 are each methyl; and R4 is n-propylene (i.e. C6-10 amidopropyl dimethylamine).

[00036] Based on experimental evidence to date, the amidoalkylamine surfactants of formula (1) have been shown to be compatible with the various water-soluble salts of glyphosate, particularly the salts of potassium, isopropylammonium, ammonium, monoethanolamine, triethanolamine, dimethylamine and glyphosate diammonium salt, and combinations of glyphosate salts, such as a mixture of glyphosate potassium salt and glyphosate monoethanolamine salt, a mixture of glyphosate potassium salt and glyphosate ammonium salt, a mixture of glyphosate isopropylammonium salt and glyphosate ammonium salt, a mixture of glyphosate potassium salt and glyphosate isopropylamine salt, a mixture of glyphosate potassium salt and glyphosate triethanolamine salt, and a mixture of dimethylamine salt of glyphosate and triethanolamine salt of glyphosate.

[00037] In the herbicidal compositions described herein, the amidoalkylamine surfactant of formula (1) can act as a coupling agent in combination with an additional surfactant component, which is also referred to herein as a cosurfactant. The additional surfactant component can be selected from, for example, alkoxylated tertiary amine oxides, amidoamine alkoxylates, betaines, or combinations thereof.

[00038] For example, the compositions described herein may comprise an alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide cosurfactant of formula (2): wherein R21 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R22 in each of the groups (R22-O) is independently selected from C1-C4 alkylene, wherein at least one R22 is different from at least one other R22; R23 in each of the groups (R23-O) is independently selected from C1-C4 alkylene; each R24 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; ex and y are average numbers such that x is at least 2 and the sum of x and y is from 3 to about 30.

[00039] In each of the compounds of formula (2) described here, R21 can be a straight-chain alkyl having an average of about 5 to about 22 carbon atoms. For example, R21 may be a straight-chain alkyl having an average of about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms, from about 10 to about 18 carbon atoms, or from about 12 to about 18 carbon atoms. . In some cases, R21 is coconut or tallow.

[00040] Each R22 can be independently selected from C2-C4 alkylene. For example, each R22 can be independently selected from the group consisting of ethylene and propylene, such that at least one R22 is ethylene and at least one R22 is propylene.

[00041] Similarly, each R23 can be independently selected from C2-C4 alkylene. For example, each R23 can be independently selected from the group consisting of ethylene and propylene. In some cases, at least one R23 is different from at least one other R23. For example, R23 can be selected such that at least one R23 is ethylene and at least one R23 is propylene.

[00042] For example, in some embodiments, the composition comprises a compound of formula (2) in which at least one R22 is ethylene and at least one R22 is propylene, and in which at least one R23 is ethylene and at least one R23 It's propylene.

[00043] In each of the compounds described here, each R24 can be independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and methyl. For example, each R24 can be hydrogen. In other cases, at least one R24 is methyl.

[00044] The sum of x and y can be from 3 to about 20, for example from about 4 to about 18, or from about 5 to about 15.

[00045] In some cases, the alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide cosurfactant of formula (2) may be a compound of formula (2a): wherein R21 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R25 is C1-4 alkylene; R26 is a C1-4 alkylene different from R25; ex, y, p, eq are each independently average numbers greater than or equal to 1, so the sum of x, y, p, eq is from 4 to about 20. R25 can be selected from C2-C4 alkylene, and is preferably selected from ethylene and propylene. Similarly, R26 can be selected from C2-C4 alkylene, and is preferably selected from ethylene and propylene, provided that R26 is different from R25. For example, in some cases, R25 is ethylene and R26 is propylene. In other cases, R25 is propylene and R26 is ethylene.

[00046] In some cases, the sum of x and y is from about 3 to about 12, or more typically from about 5 to about 10. The sum of p and q can range from 0.5 to about 5, from 1 to about 3, or more typically from 1 to about 2. The sum of x, y, p, and q can range from about 4 to about 18, or more typically from about 5 to about 15.

[00047] Specific alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide cosurfactants for use in the herbicidal compositions of the present invention include, for example, a compound of formula (2a) in which R21 is coconut, R25 is ethylene, R26 is propylene, the sum of x and y is about 9, and the sum of p and q is about 2.

[00048] The compositions described here may comprise a cosurfactant component comprising a compound of formula (3): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; each R32 is independently selected from NR301 and (N+)R301R302; and R36 is selected from NR301R303 and (N+)R301R303R304; wherein each R301 is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C4 alkyl, C(O)R33 and (R34-O)mR35; each R302 is independently selected from the group consisting of oxygen, C1-C4 alkyl, and (R34-O)mR35; and each R303 and R304 is independently selected from hydrogen, C1-C5 alkyl and (R34-O)mR35; and wherein each R33 is independently a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms or OR331, wherein each R331 is independently hydrogen or a salt-forming cation; R34 in each of the groups (R34-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; and each R35 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; en is from 0 to 3.

[00049] In each of the compounds of formula (3) described here, R31 or R33 can be a straight or branched chain alkyl comprising from about 5 to about 22 carbon atoms. For example, R31 or R33 may be a straight-chain alkyl comprising from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms, or from about 12 to about 18 carbon atoms. In some cases, R31 is derived from coconut, tallow, TOFA, rapeseed, low-erucic acid rapeseed, or soy.

[00050] In each of the compounds of formula (3) described here, R30 can be hydrogen.

[00051] In each of the compounds of formula (3), the compound can exist in various forms, including as mono- or diamidoamine. The compositions of the present disclosure may contain only mono- or diamidoamine or mono- and diamidoamine in the same composition.

[00052] In some cases, the compound of formula (3) in the cosurfactant component may be a compound of formula (3a): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; each R37 is independently selected from hydrogen, C(O)R33 and (R34-O)mR35, wherein each R33 is independently a straight or branched chain C5-22 alkyl group, R34 in each of the (R34-O) groups is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R35 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; en is from 0 to 3.

[00053] In some cases, one of the R37 groups is C(O)R33 and each of the remaining R37 groups is (R34-O)mR35. In other cases, each of the R37 groups is (R34-O)mR35.

[00054] The sum of each m can be from about 3 to about 24, from about 8 to about 24, or from about 14 to about 22.

[00055] In some cases, the compound of formula (3) in the cosurfactant component may be a compound of formula (3b): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; R34 in each of the groups (R34-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; each R35 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl; n is from 0 to 3; and each m, x, y, and z is an average number so that the sum of each m, x, y, and z is an average number from 1 to about 30.

[00056] In each of the compounds described here, each R34 can be independently selected from C2-C4 alkylene. For example, each R34 can be independently selected from the group consisting of ethylene and propylene. In some cases, at least one R34 is different from at least one other R34. For example, in some cases at least one R34 is ethylene and at least one R34 is propylene. In some cases, at least one R34 is different from at least one other R34 in each of groups x, y and z (R34-O).

[00057] In each of the compounds described here, each R35 can be independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and methyl. For example, each R35 can be hydrogen. In other cases, at least one R35 is methyl.

[00058] The sum of m, x, y, and z can be from 2 to about 20, for example from about 4 to about 18, or from about 5 to about 15

[00059] In some cases, the compound of formula (3) in the cosurfactant component may be a compound of formula (3c): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; each R34 is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; m, x, y, and z are average numbers so the sum of m, x, y, and z is an average number from 1 to about 30.

[00060] In some cases, R31 is alkyl or alkenyl, each optionally substituted and having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms.

[00061] The sum of m, x, y, and z can be an average number from about 3 to about 24, from about 8 to about 24, or from about 14 to about 22.

[00062] In some cases, the compound of formula (3) in the cosurfactant component may be a compound of formula (3d): wherein R31 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; R30 is selected from hydrogen and (R34-O)mR35; R38 is C1-4 alkylene; R39 is a C1-4 alkylene different from R38; n is from 0 to 3; and each m, x, and y is an average number such that the sum of each m, x, and y is from 1 to about 30. R38 can be selected from C2-C4 alkylene, and is preferably selected from ethylene and propylene. Similarly, R39 can be selected from C2-C4 alkylene, and is preferably selected from ethylene and propylene, provided that R39 is different from R38. For example, in some cases, R38 is ethylene and R39 is propylene. In other cases, R38 is propylene and R39 is ethylene.

[00063] The sum of each x can be an average number from about 3 to about 12, or from about 5 to about 10. The sum of each y can be an average number from 0.5 to about 5 , from 1 to about 3, or from 1 to about 2. The sum of each m, x, and y can be an average number from about 3 to about 24, from about 8 to about 24, or from about 14 to about 22.

[00064] Specific cosurfactants for use in the herbicidal compositions of the present invention include, for example, the surfactant from Akzo Nobel designated WITCAMINE 210 or ARMOHIB 210 18EO, which is a diethylenetriamine (DETA) amidoamine with an average ethoxylation of 18.

[00065] The compositions described here may comprise a betaine cosurfactant of formula (4): wherein R41 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; and each R42 is independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R43-O)mR44, wherein R43 in each of the groups (R43-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R44 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1 -C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00066] In each of the compounds of formula (4) described here, R41 is a straight-chain alkyl comprising from about 5 to about 22 carbon atoms. For example, R41 may be a straight-chain alkyl comprising from about 8 to about 18 carbon atoms, or from about 12 to about 18 carbon atoms. In some cases, R41 is coconut or tallow.

[00067] In some cases, at least one R42 is (R43-O)mR44. For example, in some cases one R42 is C1-4 alkyl and the second R42 is (R43-O)mR44.

[00068] In each of the compounds described here, each R43 can be independently selected from C2-C4 alkylene. For example, each R43 can be independently selected from the group consisting of ethylene and propylene. In some cases, at least one R43 is different from at least one other R43. For example, in some cases at least one R43 is ethylene and at least one R43 is propylene.

[00069] In each of the compounds described here, each R44 can be independently selected from the group consisting of hydrogen and methyl. For example, each R44 can be hydrogen. In other cases, at least one R44 is methyl.

[00070] For example, the betaine cosurfactant of formula (4) may be a compound of formula (4a): wherein R41 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms; each R43 is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; x and y are average numbers so the sum of x and y is from 2 to about 20.

[00071] The sum of x and y can be from 2 to about 20, for example, from about 4 to about 18, or from about 5 to about 15.

[00072] In other cases, the betaine cosurfactant of formula (4) may be a compound of formula (4b): wherein R41 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms.

[00073] Specific betaine cosurfactants for use in the herbicidal compositions of the present invention include, for example, the Akzo Nobel surfactant designated AMPHOTEEN 24, which is an alkyl (coconut) dimethyl betaine.

[00074] The compositions described here may comprise a cosurfactant of formula (5a): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group pendant in the chain hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00075] In other cases, the compositions described here may comprise a cosurfactant of formula (5b): wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group pendant in the chain hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected of hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30; and R55 is selected from CH2CO2- and oxygen.

[00076] For example, the compositions described here may comprise a cosurfactant of formula (5c): the wherein R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of about 5 carbon atoms to about 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group pendant in the chain hydrocarbon; R52 is C1-4 alkyl; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00077] In some cases, the composition comprises a cosurfactant of formula (5a), (5b), or (5c) in which R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methyl ester of a fatty acid and comprising at least at least one substituent O(R512-O)mR513, wherein R512 in each of the groups (R512-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R513 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to about 30.

[00078] In some cases, R51 is derived from a hydroxyleic acid. For example, R51 may be derived from castor oil.

[00079] In some cases, R52 is isopropyl.

[00080] Specific cosurfactants for use in the herbicidal compositions of the present invention include, for example, the Akzo Nobel surfactant designated ACAR 14017.

[00081] With respect to the surfactant mixture itself, the use of the amidoalkylamine surfactant as a coupling agent allows the preparation of high-load glyphosate herbicide concentrates of improved stability compared to formulations comprising conventional coupling agents. Stated differently, increasing the proportion of cosurfactants typically decreases the stability of a high-load glyphosate formulation when a conventional coupling agent is employed. The amidoalkylamine coupling agent allows the preparation of highly loaded glyphosate formulations with higher proportions of cosurfactants that are stable, as illustrated by long-term storage stability and cloud point studies.

[00082] In relation to the surfactant mixture, a concentration ratio of the amidoalkylamine surfactant in g/L to the cosurfactant in g/L can vary from 10:1 to about 1:10, more preferably, 8:1 to about 1:8, more preferably from 5:1 to about 1:5, and most preferably from 2:1 to about 1:2. Preferably, the concentration ratio of amidoalkylamine surfactant in g/L to cosurfactant in g/L is less than about 45:55, more preferably less than about 40:60, even more preferably less than about 35:65.

[00083] The pH of the herbicidal composition can contribute to stability, cloud point, compatibility of glyphosate salts with the surfactants used, and compatibility with co-herbicides that can be added. In this regard, the pH of a herbicidal composition comprising potassium glyphosate, for example, as its predominant glyphosate component, may be from about 4 to about 8, such as from about 4.5 to about 5. 5. In other embodiments, the pH of a herbicidal composition comprising diammonium glyphosate as its predominant glyphosate component may be from about 4 to about 8, such as from about 5 to about 7, such as from about 5, 5 to about 6.5. pH adjusting agents for acid adjustment include mineral acids such as, for example, hydrochloric acid, nitric acid or sulfuric acid, and organic acids such as, for example, acetic acid or dicarboxylic acids. pH adjusting agents for alkaline adjustment include, for example, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia and organic bases such as IPA, MEA and DMA.

[00084] The herbicidal compositions may also comprise other conventional adjuvants, excipients or additives known to those skilled in the art. These other additives or ingredients may be introduced into the compositions described herein to provide or improve certain desired properties or characteristics of the formulated product. Thus, the herbicidal composition may further comprise one or more additional ingredients selected from, without limitation, foam moderating agents, surfactants, preservatives or antimicrobials, antifreeze agents, solubility improving agents, colorants, pH adjusters and thickening agents.

[00085] The compositions may comprise one or more protective agents that inhibit damage to plants caused by the presence of N-(phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetic acid ("PMIDA"). Suitable protective agents are described in US 8,129,564, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Typically, the shielding agent comprises a metal ion that is subject to the formation of a complex or salt with N-(phosphonomethyl)iminodiacetic acid or an anion formed by deprotonation or partial deprotonation thereof, the formation of such a complex or salt being effective to inhibit significant leaf necrosis in the culture of transgenic glyphosate-tolerant cotton plants induced by N-(phosphonomethyl) iminodiacetic acid or its salt present in the composition. For example, the composition may comprise a metal ion selected from the group consisting of aluminum, copper, iron, zinc and mixtures thereof. In some cases, the composition comprises iron ions (e.g. ferric sulfate). In some cases, the composition further comprises a solubilizing ligand (e.g., citric acid).

[00086] Suitable surfactants are known to those skilled in the art and include cationic, nonionic, and anionic surfactants. These surfactants may be included in the herbicidal compositions described herein as long as they do not adversely affect the stability or compatibility of the surfactant component with the remainder of the glyphosate formulation.

[00087] Suitable classes of cationic surfactants include primary, secondary and tertiary alkylamines, primary, secondary and tertiary alkylammonium in which an amine group is substantially protonated in the formulation, onium salts such as quaternary alkylammonium salts, and mixtures thereof. A wide variety of primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary and zwitterionic alkylammonium salt and alkylamine surfactants can be used in preparing the herbicidal compositions described herein. A subclass of primary, secondary and tertiary alkylamine surfactants for use in the present compositions are alkylamine oxides, alkyl ether amines and alkyl ether amine oxides as disclosed in US 5,750,468 (to Wright).

[00088] In the aqueous concentrate and RTU compositions of the present invention, a concentration ratio of glyphosate expressed in grams of acid equivalent ("g of a.e./L") to the surfactant component in g/L of about 1: 1 to about 50:1 is preferred, more preferably from about 2:1 to about 20:1, more preferably from about 2:1 to about 10:1, more preferably from about from 3:1 to about 10:1, and more preferably, from about 3:1 to about 5:1, such as about 4:1. In aqueous concentrates of the present invention, total surfactant loadings of about 120 g/L to about 150 g/L, such as about 135 g/L, can be obtained in compositions containing glyphosate salt loadings of about 480 g a.e./L to 600 g a.e./L, such as about 540 g/L. The weight ratio of glyphosate to surfactant component is important from the standpoint of increased bioefficacy, compatibility and long-term storage stability.

[00089] In solid concentrated compositions of the present invention, a weight ratio of glyphosate in grams of acid equivalent ("g of a.e.") to the total surfactant component in grams can generally range from about 1:1 to about 50 :1, preferably from about 2:1 to about 20:1, more preferably from about 2:1 to about 10:1, more preferably from about 3:1 to about 10 :1 and more preferably from about 3:1 to about 5:1, such as about 4:1.

[00090] The compositions may comprise one or more foam moderating agents. Suitable foam moderating agents include silicone-based compositions. An example of a foam moderating agent for compositions is SAG-10, available from GE Silicones Corporation (Wilton, Conn.). The amount of foam moderating agent optionally employed is that which is sufficient to inhibit and/or reduce an amount of foam that might otherwise be formed during the process of preparing and packaging the formulation and/or using the same to a desired and satisfactory level. Generally, the concentration of foam moderating agent is in the range of about 0.001% to about 0.05% by weight of the composition, and typically from about 0.01% to about 0.03% by weight of the composition. although larger or smaller quantities may be used.

[00091] The compositions may also comprise a preservative such as PROXEL GXL containing 1,2-benzisothiazolin-3-one (CAS No. 2634-33-5) available from Avecia, Inc. (Wilmington, Del.), DOWICIL 150 containing cis-1-(3-chloroallyl)-3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniaadmatane chloride (CAS No. 051229-78-8) available from Dow Chemical Company (Midland, Michigan), NIPACIDE BIT20DPG containing benzisothiazolinone available from Clariant Corporation (Greensboro, N.C.), LEGEN MK antimicrobial biocide available from Rohm and Haas Co. (Philadelphia, Pa.), sorbic acid, mixtures thereof and the like in the range of about 0.01% to about 0.01%. 2% by weight, preferably about 0.1% by weight of the composition.

[00092] Suitable anti-icing agents include ethylene glycol and propylene glycol and generally may be present in a concentration of from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the RTU composition. Antifreeze agents help to reduce the freezing point of aqueous solutions and maintain the solubility of the components of the composition, such that the components do not crystallize or precipitate during freezing and thawing cycles.

[00093] Although the compositions of the present invention generally show good general stability and viscosity properties, without the addition of any other additives, the addition of a solubility enhancing agent (also commonly referred to as a cloud point enhancer or stabilizer) ) can significantly improve the properties of formulations. Solubility enhancing agents include polymeric derivatives of ethylene glycol and propylene glycol (e.g. average molecular weight 200-1200), glycerol, sugars, mixtures thereof and the like in amounts of about 10%, preferably about 0.05 to 10% by weight, more preferably from about 0.1 to about 1% by weight of the RTU composition.

[00094] Herbicidal compositions, that is, liquid concentrates, solid concentrates, and ready-to-use formulations may further comprise a co-herbicide. The aminoalkylamine surfactant enhances the solubility of tank-mixed herbicidal compositions that further comprise a co-herbicide. In some preferred embodiments, the herbicidal composition is a tank-mixed ready-to-use formulation further comprising a co-herbicide, said tank-mixed ready-to-use formulation being more stable, i.e., characterized by reduced agglomeration or precipitation of the co-herbicide. , than conventional glyphosate formulations.

[00095] In some embodiments, water-soluble co-herbicides can be included in the compositions of the present invention. Water-soluble co-herbicides include acifluorfen, acrolein, amitrol, asulame, benazoline, bentazone, bialaphos, bromacil, bromoxynil, chlorambene, chloroacetic acid, clopyralid, 2,4-D, 2,4-DB, dalapon, dicamba, dichlorprop , diffenzoquat, diquat, endotal, fenac, fenoxaprop, flamprop, flumiclorac, fluoroglycophene, flupropanate, falesafen, fosamine, glufosinate, imazamet, imazametabenz, imazamox, imazapic, imazapyr, imazaquin, imazetapyr, ioxynil, MCPA, MCPB, mecoprop, methylarsonic acid, naptalam, nonanoic acid, paraquat, picloram, quinclorac, sulfamic acid, 2,3,6-TBA, TCA, triclopyr and water-soluble salts thereof.

[00096] In some embodiments, co-herbicides that are not readily soluble in water can be coupled into the aqueous herbicide composition by including a sufficient amount of a suitable surfactant. Furthermore, the compositions of the present invention may include finely divided water-insoluble herbicides. Examples of herbicides having limited water solubility include, for example, methyl, bensulide, benzofenap, bifenox, bromobutide, bromophenoxim, butachlor, butamifos, butralin, butroxydim, butylate, cafenstrol, carbethamide, carfentrazone-ethyl, clomethoxyfen, chlorbromuron, cloridazon, chlorimuron-ethyl, chlornitrophen, chlorotoluron, chlorpropam, chlorsulfuron, chlorthal- dimethyl, chlorthiamide, cinmethylline, cinosulfuron, clethodim, clodinafop-propargyl, clomazone, clomeprop, cloransulam-methyl, cyanazine, cyclooate, cyclosulfamuron, cycloxidim, cialofop-butyl, daimuron, desmedifam, desmetrin, diclobenil, diclofop-methyl, diflufenican, dimefuron, Dimepipect, dimetachlor, dimethametrin, dimethenamid, dinitramine, dinoterb, diphenamide, ditiopiron, diuron, EPTC, Esprocarb, eTametsulfuron-methyl, etoxisulfuron, Etobenzanid, Fenoxrop-Etylla, Fenuron, Flamprop-Metilla, FLA Zassulfuron, Fluazifop-Butila, flucloralin, flumetsulam, flumiclorac-pentyl, flumioxazin, fluometuron, fluorochloridone, fluoroglycofen-ethyl, flupoxam, flurenol, fluridone, fluroxypyr-1-methylheptyl, flurtamon, flutiacet-methyl, medosafen, halosulfuron, haloxyfop-methyl, hexazinone, imazamox, imazosulfuron, indanofan, isoproturon, isouron, isoxaben, isoxaflutol, isoxapirifop, lactofen, lenacil, linuron, mefenacet, mesotrione, metamitron, metazaclor, metabenzthiazuron, methyldimron, metobenzuron, metobromuron, metolachlor, metosulam, methoxuron, metribuzin, metsulfuron, molinate, monolinuron , naproanilide, napropamide, naptalam, neburon, nicosulfuron, norflurazon, orbencarb, oryzalin, oxadiaclay, oxadiazon, oxasulfuron, oxyfluorfen, pebulate, pendimethalin, pentanochlor, pentoxazone, phenmedifam, piperofos, pretilachlor, primisulfuron, prodiamine, prometon, promethrin, propachlor, propanil, propaquizafop , propazine, profam, propisoclor, propyzamide, prosulfocarb, prosulfuron, pyraflufen-ethyl, pyrazolinate, pyrazosulfuron-ethyl, pyrazoxifen, piributicarb, pyridate, piriminobac-methyl, quinclorac, quinmerac, quizalofop-ethyl, rimsulfuron, sethoxydim, siduron, simazine, simetrin, sulcotrione, sulfentrazone, sulfometuron, sulfosulfuron, tebutam, tebuthiuron, terbacyl, terbumeton, terbuthylazine, terbutrin, tenylchlor, thiazopyr, thifensulfuron, thiobencarb, thiocarbazil, tralkoxydim, triallate, triasulfuron, tribenuron, triethazine, trifluralin, triflusulfuron and vernolate. Additional herbicide active ingredient(s) in a concentrate or RTU formulation are present in an agriculturally useful concentration that will vary depending on the additional herbicide(s) selected ) for inclusion and easily determined by those skilled in the art.

[00097] The herbicide concentrate of the present invention can be prepared by combining the required amounts of glyphosate, water, amidoalkylamine surfactant coupling agent, and the cosurfactant, with mixing using a mechanical stirrer or any other appropriate container or production device. of the necessary amount of agitation or circulation to thoroughly mix the ingredients. The order of addition of starting materials is not strictly critical to the stability of the final concentrate. In various embodiments, the herbicide concentrate is prepared according to an order of addition of components. Here, water is preferably added to the first mixing vessel, followed by the addition of the glyphosate salt. Then, the amidoalkylamine surfactant coupling agent is added, followed by the addition of the cosurfactant. In some embodiments, the cosurfactant may be added as a mixture precombined with the amidoalkylamine surfactant. In other embodiments, the cosurfactants can be added alone, before or after the addition of the amidoalkylamine surfactant.

[00098] A solid concentrate of the present invention can also be prepared by combining the required amounts of glyphosate, amidoalkylamine surfactant coupling agent, the cosurfactant, with mixing using a mechanical stirrer, ball mill, or other suitable container or device producing the necessary amount of stirring or circulation to thoroughly mix the ingredients. The order of addition of materials to prepare the solid concentrate is not strictly critical to the stability of the final concentrate.

[00099] The RTU compositions of the present invention can be prepared by diluting an aqueous herbicide concentrate or dissolving a solid concentrate with an appropriate amount of water.

[000100] The present invention is also directed to a method of killing or controlling weeds or other undesirable plants by spraying or otherwise applying a herbicidally effective amount of RTU or diluted concentrate formulations described herein to the foliage of plants to be treated. The herbicidal spray compositions included in the present invention can be applied to the foliage of the plants to be treated by any of the appropriate methods that are well known to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the RTU composition is packaged in a portable container suitable for being carried manually by the user and equipped with an apparatus for manually releasing the composition from the container onto the foliage of plants to be treated in the form of a spray.

[000101] The compositions of the present invention can be used to kill or control the growth of a wide variety of plants. Particularly important annual dicotyledonous plant species include, without limitation, hazelnut leaf (Abutilon theophrasti), pigweed (Amaranthus spp.), button broom (Borreria spp.), rapeseed oil, canola, Indian mustard, etc. (Brassica spp.), Commelina (Commelina spp.), filaree (Erodium spp.), sunflower (Helianthus spp.), morning glory (Ipomoea spp.), kochia (Kochia scoparia), mallow (Malva spp.), wheat wild buckwheat, weed, etc. (Polygonum spp.), purslane (Portulaca spp.), Russian thistle (Salsola spp.), sida (Sida spp.), wild mustard (Sinapis arvensis) and carqueja (Xanthium spp.).

[000102] Particularly important monocot annual plant species that can be killed or controlled using the compositions of the present invention include, without limitation, wild oat (Avena fatua), carpetgrass (Axonopus spp.), tender brome (Bromus tectorum), grass -mattress (Digitaria spp.), cock's foot millet (Echinochloa crus-galli), grass (Eleusine indica), annual ryegrass (Lolium mult iflorum), rice (Oryza sativa), ottochloa (Ottochloa nodosa), bahiagrass (Paspalum Notatum) , birdseed (Phalaris spp.), foxtail (Setaria spp.), wheat (Triticum aestivum) and corn (Zea mays).

[000103] Species of perennial dicotyledonous plants particularly important for control of which a composition of the invention can be used include, without limitation, mugwort (Artemisia spp.), milkweed (Asclepias spp.), Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense), climbing plants field (Convolvulus arvensis) and kudzu (Pueraria spp.).

[000104] Particularly important perennial monocot plant species for the control of which a composition of the invention can be used include, without limitation, brachiaria (Brachiaria spp.), bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon), quackgrass (Elymus repens), lalang (Imperata cylindrica), perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne), pigeongrass (Panicum maximum), honeygrass (Paspalum dilatatum), reed grass (Phragmites spp.), Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) and catkin (Typha spp.).

[000105] Other species of perennial plants particularly important for control of which a composition of the invention can be used include, without limitation, horsetail (Equisetum spp.), fern (Pteridium aquilinum), blackberry (Rubus spp.) and gorse ( Ulex europaeus).

[000106] Suitable herbicidally effective application rates or sprays used in the practice of the present invention will vary depending on the particular composition and concentration of the active ingredients, the desired effects, the plant species treated, the climate and other factors. What constitutes a "desired effect" varies according to the standards and practice of those who investigate, develop, market and use the compositions, and the selection of application rates that are herbicidally effective for a composition of the invention is within the ability of those skilled in the art. technique.

DEFINITIONS

[000107] The term "hydrocarbyl", as used here, describes organic compounds or radicals that consist exclusively of the elements carbon and hydrogen. These moieties include alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and aryl moieties. These moieties also include alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and aryl moieties substituted with other aliphatic or cyclic hydrocarbon groups, such as alkaryl, alkenaryl and alkynaryl. Unless otherwise indicated, these portions preferably comprise 1 to 30 carbon atoms.

[000108] The term "hydrocarbylene" as used here describes radicals joined at their two ends to other radicals in an organic compound, and which consist exclusively of the elements carbon and hydrogen. These moieties include alkylene, alkenylene, alkynylene and arylene moieties. These moieties also include alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and aryl moieties substituted with other aliphatic or cyclic hydrocarbon groups, such as alkaryl, alkenaryl and alkynaryl. Unless otherwise indicated, these portions preferably comprise 1 to 30 carbon atoms.

[000109] The term "substituted hydrocarbyl" as used herein describes hydrocarbyl moieties that are substituted with at least one atom other than carbon, including moieties in which an atom of the carbon chain is replaced with a heteroatom such as nitrogen, oxygen , silicon, phosphorus, boron, sulfur or a halogen atom. These substituents include halogen, heterocycle, alkoxy, alkenoxy, alkynoxy, aryloxy, hydroxy, protected hydroxy, ketal, acyl, acyloxy, nitro, amino, amido, cyano, thiol, acetal, sulfoxide, ester, thioester, ether, thioether, hydroxyalkyl, urea, guanidine, amidine, phosphate, amine oxide and quaternary ammonium salt.

[000110] The "substituted hydrocarbylene" moieties described herein are hydrocarbylene moieties that are substituted with at least one atom other than carbon, including moieties in which an atom of the carbon chain is replaced with a heteroatom such as nitrogen, oxygen, silicon , phosphorus, boron, sulfur or a halogen atom. These substituents include halogen, heterocycle, alkoxy, alkenoxy, alkynoxy, aryloxy, hydroxy, protected hydroxy, ketal, acyl, acyloxy, nitro, amino, amido, cyano, thiol, acetal, sulfoxide, ester, thioester, ether, thioether, hydroxyalkyl, urea, guanidine, amidine, phosphate, amine oxide and quaternary ammonium salt.

[000111] Unless otherwise indicated, the alkyl groups described herein are preferably lower alkyl containing from one to 18 carbon atoms in the main chain and up to 30 carbon atoms. They may be straight-chain or branched or cyclic and include methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, n-butyl, isobutyl, hexyl, 2-ethylhexyl and the like.

[000112] Unless otherwise indicated, the alkenyl groups described herein are preferably lower alkenyl containing from two to 18 carbon atoms in the main chain and up to 30 carbon atoms. They may be straight-chain or branched or cyclic and include ethenyl, propenyl, isopropenyl, butenyl, isobutenyl, hexenyl and the like. Unless otherwise indicated, the alkynyl groups described herein are preferably lower alkynyl containing from two to 18 carbon atoms in the main chain and up to 30 carbon atoms. They can be straight-chain or branched and include ethynyl, propynyl, butynyl, isobutynyl, hexinyl and the like. The term "aryl" as used herein alone or as part of another group means optionally substituted homocyclic aromatic groups, preferably monocyclic or bicyclic groups containing from 6 to 12 carbons in the ring portion, such as phenyl, biphenyl, naphthyl, substituted phenyl , substituted biphenyl or substituted naphthyl. Phenyl and substituted phenyl are the most preferred aryl.

[000113] As used herein, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl and aryl groups may be substituted with at least one atom other than carbon, including portions in which an atom of the carbon chain is replaced with a heteroatom such as nitrogen, oxygen , silicon, phosphorus, boron, sulfur or a halogen atom. These substituents include hydroxy, nitro, amino, starch, nitro, cyano, sulfoxide, thiol, thioester, thioether, ester and ether, or any other substituent that may increase the compatibility of the surfactant and/or its increased effectiveness in the glyphosate formulation. of potassium without adversely affecting the storage stability of the formulation.

[000114] The terms "halogen" or "halo" as used here alone or as part of another group refer to chlorine, bromine, fluorine and iodine. Fluorine substituents are often preferred in surfactant compounds.

[000115] Unless otherwise indicated, the term "hydroxyalkyl" includes alkyl groups substituted with at least one hydroxy group, for example, bis(hydroxyalkyl)alkyl, tris(hydroxyalkyl)alkyl and poly(hydroxyalkyl)alkyl groups. Preferred hydroxyalkyl groups include hydroxymethyl (-CH2OH), and hydroxyethyl (-C2H4OH), bis(hydroxymethyl) methyl (-CH(CH2OH)2), and tris(hydroxymethyl) methyl (-C(CH2OH)3).

[000116] The term "cyclic" as used here alone or as part of another group, designates a group that has at least one closed ring, and includes alicyclic, aromatic (arene) and heterocyclic groups.

[000117] The terms "heterocycle" or "heterocyclic", as used herein alone or as part of another group, denote optionally substituted, fully saturated or unsaturated, monocyclic or bicyclic, aromatic or non-aromatic groups having at least one heteroatom in at least a ring and preferably 5 or 6 atoms in each ring. The heterocycle group preferably has 1 or 2 oxygen atoms, 1 or 2 sulfur atoms and/or 1 to 4 nitrogen atoms in the ring, and may be linked to the rest of the molecule through a carbon or heteroatom. Examples of heterocycle include heteroaromatics such as furyl, thienyl, pyridyl, oxazolyl, pyrrolyl, indolyl, quinolinyl or isoquinolinyl and the like, and aromatic heterocyclics such as tetrahydrofuryl, tetrahydrothienyl, piperidinyl, pyrrolidine, etc. Exemplary substituents include one or more of the following groups: hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, keto, hydroxyl, protected hydroxy, acyl, acyloxyl, alkoxyl, alkenoxyl, alkynoxyl, aryloxyl, halogen, starch, amino, nitro, cyano, thiol, thioester, thioether, ketal, acetal, ester and ether.

[000118] The term "heteroaromatic" as used here alone or as part of another group, designates optionally substituted aromatic groups having at least one heteroatom in at least one ring, and preferably, 5 or 6 atoms in each ring. The heteroaromatic group preferably has 1 or 2 oxygen atoms, 1 or 2 sulfur atoms and/or 1 to 4 nitrogen atoms in the ring, and may be linked to the rest of the molecule through a carbon or heteroatom. Exemplary heteroaromatics include furyl, thienyl, pyridyl, oxazolyl, pyrrolyl, indolyl, quinolinyl or isoquinolinyl and the like. Exemplary substituents include one or more of the following groups: hydrocarbyl, substituted hydrocarbyl, keto, hydroxy, protected hydroxy, acyl, acyloxy, alkoxy, alkenoxy, alkynoxy, aryloxy, halogen, amido, amino, nitro, cyano, thiol, thioether, thioester , ketal, acetal, ester and ether.

[000119] The term "acyl", as used herein alone or as part of another group, designates the radical formed by removal of the hydroxyl group from the -COOH group of an organic carboxylic acid, for example, RC(O)-, wherein R is R1, R1O-, R1R2N-, or R1S-, R1 is hydrocarbyl, heterosubstituted hydrocarbyl, or heterocycle, and R2 is hydrogen, hydrocarbyl or substituted hydrocarbyl.

[000120] The term "acyloxy", as used here alone or as part of another group, denotes an acyl group as described above linked through an oxygen bond (--O--), for example, RC(O)O - wherein R is as defined in connection with the term "acyl".

[000121] When a maximum or minimum "average number" is referred to herein with reference to a structural characteristic, such as oxyethylene units, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the entire number of such units in individual molecules, in a preparation of surfactant typically varies over a range that may include whole numbers greater than the maximum or less than the minimum "average number." The presence in a composition of individual surfactant molecules having an integer number of such units outside the range indicated in "average number" does not remove the composition from the scope of the present invention, provided that the "average number" is within the indicated range and other requirements are fulfilled.

[000122] The effectiveness of the herbicide is one of the biological effects that can be improved through this invention. "Herbicide efficacy" as used herein refers to any observable measure of control of plant growth, which may include one or more of the actions of (1) killing, (2) inhibiting growth, reproducing or proliferating, and ( 3) remove, destroy or reduce the occurrence and activity of plants.

[000123] Having described the invention in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the attached claims.

EXAMPLES

[000124] The following non-limiting examples are provided to further illustrate the present invention.

Example 1: Formulation Preparation

[000125] Compositions comprising either potassium glyphosate or a mixture of potassium glyphosate and isopropylammonium were prepared and subjected to various tests, as described in the following Examples.

[000126] Various surfactants, cosurfactants, and other excipients were used in the compositions of the Examples. These compounds are identified in the following table.

[000127] The compositions comprising the potassium salt of glyphosate are described in Table 1A below. Compositions comprising a 70:30 weight/weight mixture (on a glyphosate acid equivalent basis) of the potassium and isopropylammonium salts of glyphosate are described in Table 1B below. Table 1A: Potassium Glyphosate Formulations Table 1B: Potassium Glyphosate/IPA (70/30) Formulations

Example 2: Formulation Stability Testing for Glyphosate Formulations

[000128] Glyphosate formulations were tested for cloud point using the following procedure. The test formulation was poured into a 25 mm x 200 mm PYREX test tube at a level approximately 2 inches from the bottom. The test sample was heated until cloudy using a hot water bath. Temperature is monitored using an alcohol thermometer. Once the previously clear formulation became cloudy, or the temperature reached 85°C, the test sample was removed from the water bath. If the formulation remained clear throughout the test, the cloud point was recorded as >85°C. If it became cloudy, the formulation was stirred with the alcohol thermometer until it became clear. The temperature at which the test sample became clear was recorded as the cloud point of the formulation.

[000129] Cloud point results are provided in Table 2 below. Each test composition contained 540 g ae/L glyphosate and 135 g/L total surfactant. Table 2: Formulation Stability N/M=not measured

Example 3: Weed Control Assessments

[000130] The herbicide efficacy data described herein reports "control" as a percentage following a standard procedure in the art that reflects a visual assessment of plant mortality and growth reduction compared to untreated plants, made by specially trained technicians to make and record such observations. In all cases, a single technician makes all percent control assessments in any experiment or test. Such measurements are reliable and regularly reported by Monsanto Company in the course of its herbicide business.

[000131] The percentage control of individual weed species was visually assessed 19-22 days after application. Treatment compositions are described in Tables 1A and 1B, above. Treatments were applied when weeds were between 6 and 8 inches tall. Each formulation was applied at 560 g a.e./ha, 840 g a.e./ha and 1260 a.e./ha. Rates were calculated based on glyphosate acid equivalent (a.e.) to ensure that the same amount of glyphosate acid was applied regardless of the type of glyphosate salt in the formulation. A ROUNDUP POWERMAX pattern was included in each test.

[000132] The efficacy of individual formulation herbs (averaged across 3 application scales) against Palmer amaranth (AMASS), common purslane (POROL) and hemp sesbania (SEBEX) is provided in Table 3A below. Table 3A: Weed Effectiveness

[000133] The effectiveness of individual weed formulations (average of 3 application rates) against velvet leaf (ABUTH), bindleaf morning glory (IPOSS) and hemp sesbania (SEBEX) is provided in Table 3B below. Table 3B: Weed Effectiveness

[000134] The weed effectiveness of the individual formulations (average of 3 application rates) against vine leaf morning glory (IPOSS), and high water hemp (AMATU) is provided in Table 3C below. Table 3C: Weed Effectiveness

[000135] Herbal efficacy of individual formulations (averages of 3 application rates) against foxtail (ALOSS), morning glory creeper (IPOHE), velvet leaf (ABUTH), and hemp high water content (AMATA) in ROUNDUP READY corn is provided in the 3D Table below. Table 3D: Weed Effectiveness

[000136] Efficacy of individual weed formulations (average of 3 application rates) against high water hemp (AMATA), velvetyleaf (ABUTH), common cocklebur (XANST), giant foxtail ( SETFA), and in ROUNDUP READY soybeans is provided in Table 3E below. Table 3E: Weed Effectiveness

Example 4: Bioassays of aquatic organisms

[000137] Aquatic toxicity studies were carried out using two species of aquatic organisms Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, a species of algae, and Daphnia magna, a crustacean.

[000138] These studies were carried out to identify glyphosate formulations, described in Example 1 above, that have low toxicity to aquatic organisms. The results of these tests are provided in Table 4 below. Table 4: Bioassay of aquatic organisms

Example 5: Aquatic Study Using Castor Oil Surfactants

[000139] A composition comprising the potassium salt of glyphosate and a castor oil betaine surfactant was prepared as described in Table 5A below. Table 5A: Potassium Glyphosate Formulations

[000140] An aquatic toxicity study was carried out according to the procedures used in Example 4 above. The results of this assay are provided in Table 5B below. Table 5B: Aquatic Toxicity Data

Example 6: Weed Control Effectiveness

[000141] The weed control effectiveness of a test formulation (GC10006) and a control formulation (ROUNDUP POWERMAX) against various weeds is provided in Table 6 below. Data represent the average control 3 application rates evaluated at 21 days after treatment. Table 6: Average % weed control by species

Example 7: Formulation Stability Test

[000142] Glyphosate formulations were tested for cloud point using the procedure described in Example 2 above. The color of each formulation was also evaluated using the Gardner color scale. The results of these tests are provided in Table 7 below.

[000143] Each test formulation contained 540 g of ae/L of potassium glyphosate. Table 7: Formulation Stability and Color

Example 8: Formulation Stability Test

[000144] Compositions comprising the potassium salt of glyphosate as described in Table 8A below were prepared. Each test formulation contained 540 g ae/L potassium glyphosate. Table 8A: Potassium Glyphosate Formulations N/M=not measured

[000145] The glyphosate formulations described in Table 8A were tested for cloud point using the procedure described in Example 2 above. The appearance of the formulations was also observed at room temperature (RT) and at -20°C. The results of these tests are provided in Table 8B below. Table 8B: Formulation Stability N/M=not measured

Example 9: Weed Control Assessments

[000146] Compositions comprising the potassium salt of glyphosate as described in Table 9A below were prepared. Each test formulation contained 540 g ae/L potassium glyphosate. Table 9A: Potassium Glyphosate Formulations

[000147] Compositions comprising the potassium salt of glyphosate as described in Table 9B below are prepared. Each test formulation contained 570 g ae/L potassium glyphosate. Table 9B: Potassium Glyphosate Formulations

[000148] Percentage control of individual weed species was visually assessed 19-21 days after application. Treatments were applied when weeds were between 6 and 8 inches tall. Each formulation was applied at rates of 280 grams of a.e./ha, 560 grams of a.e./ha and 840 grams of a.e./ha. Rates were calculated based on glyphosate acid equivalent (a.e.) to ensure that the same amount of glyphosate acid was applied regardless of the type of glyphosate salt in the formulation. A ROUNDUP POWERMAX pattern was included in each test.

[000149] The effectiveness of individual weed formulations at each application rate against morning glory (IPOHE) and grass (ELEIN) at 21 days after application is provided in Table 9C below. Table 9C: Weed Effectiveness

[000150] The effectiveness of individual weed formulations at each application rate against velvet leaf (ABUTH) and grass (ELEIN) at 21 days after application is provided in Table 9D below. Table 9D: Weed Effectiveness

[000151] The effectiveness of individual weed formulations at each application rate against velvet leaf (ABUTH) and grass (ELEIN) at 19 days after application is provided in Table 9E below. Table 9E: Weed Effectiveness

[000152] When presenting the elements of the present invention or the preferred embodiment(s) thereof, the articles "a", "an", "the, the" and "said" are intended to mean that there is one or more of the elements. The terms "comprising", "including" and 'having" are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the elements mentioned.

[000153] In view of the foregoing, it will be seen that the various objects of the invention are achieved and other advantageous results achieved.

[000154] As various changes could be made to the above compositions and processes without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the attached drawings is interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims (15)

1. Aqueous composition of herbicide concentrate, characterized by the fact that it comprises: (a) glyphosate or a derivative thereof; (b) an amidoalkylamine surfactant of formula (1): in which: R1 is alkyl or alkenyl having an average of 4 carbon atoms to 22 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are independently alkyl having 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and R4 is alkylene having 1 to 4 carbon atoms ; and (c) a cosurfactant component comprising at least one cosurfactant selected from the group consisting of: an alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide of formula (2a): wherein: R21 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of 5 carbon atoms to 22 carbon atoms; R25 is C1-C4 alkylene; R26 is a C1-C4 alkylene different from R25; ex, y, p and q are each independently average numbers greater than or equal to 1, such that the sum of x, y, p and q is 5 to 20, and the sum of x and y is 3 to 12; a cosurfactant comprising a betaine of formula (4a): wherein: R41 is a straight or branched chain hydrocarbyl having an average of 5 carbon atoms to 22 carbon atoms; each R43 is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene; ex and y are average numbers such that the sum of x and y is 2 to 20; a cosurfactant of formula (5b): wherein: R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of 5 carbon atoms to 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the hydrocarbon chain; R52 is C1-4 alkylene; R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected of hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to 30; and R55 is selected from CH2CO2- and oxygen; and a cosurfactant of formula (5c): wherein: R51 is a substituted hydrocarbyl having an average of 5 carbon atoms to 22 carbon atoms derived from a triglyceride, fatty acid, or methester of a fatty acid and comprising at least one hydroxyl or alkoxy group in the hydrocarbon chain; R52 is C1-4 alkylene; and R53 and R54 are each independently selected from C1-4 alkyl and (R56-O)mR57, wherein R56 in each of the groups (R56-O) is independently selected from C1-4 alkylene, each R57 is independently selected from hydrogen and C1-C4 alkyl, and each m is an average number so that the sum of each m is from 1 to 30. 2. Composition, according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that the cosurfactant component comprises an alkoxylated tertiary amine oxide of formula (2a), and the sum of x, y, p and q is 5 to 15. 3. Composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the fact that R21 is a straight-chain alkyl group having an average of 5 to 22 carbon atoms. 4. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by the fact that R21 is a straight-chain alkyl group having an average of 8 to 18 carbon atoms, 10 to 18 carbon atoms, or 12 to 18 carbon atoms. 5. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that each R25 is C2-4 alkylene and each R26 is C2-4 alkylene other than R25. 6. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that R25 is ethylene and R26 is propylene. 7. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by the fact that R25 is propylene and R26 is ethylene. 8. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by the fact that R21 is coconut, R25 is ethylene, R26 is propylene, the sum of x and y is 9 and the sum of p and q is 2. 9. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by the fact that R1 is alkyl having an average of 5 carbon atoms to 12 carbon atoms, R2 and R3 are methyl, and R4 is n-propylene. 10. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the cosurfactant component comprises a betaine of formula (4a): 11. Composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the cosurfactant component comprises a cosurfactant of formula (5b). 12. Composition according to claim 1, characterized in that the cosurfactant component comprises a cosurfactant of formula (5c). 13. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by the fact that the glyphosate derivative is a glyphosate salt selected from the group consisting of potassium salt, monoammonium salt, diammonium salt, triammonium salt , sodium salt, monoethanolamine salt, isopropylamine salt, n-propylamine salt, ethylamine salt, dimethylamine salt, ethylenediamine salt, hexamethylenediamine salt, monosulfonium, disulfonium, trimethylsulfonium salt and combinations thereof. 14. Composition according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the composition comprises glyphosate in a concentration greater than 30 percent by weight of acid equivalent. 15. Method for killing or controlling weeds or unwanted vegetation, characterized in that it comprises: diluting a composition, as defined in any one of claims 1 to 14, in an amount of water to form an application mixture; and applying a herbicidally effective amount of the application mixture to weed foliage or unwanted vegetation.